Window tint, which is also sometimes referred to as solar control film, can be affixed to the interior of any window in order to reflect sunshine. Some types of window film have been dyed in order to absorb UV light, while other types have metal or special ceramics in their content that works to reflect UV rays.

There are several advantages to tinting your windows, the most obvious being that it will save energy and reduce your costs for heating and cooling. Tinted windows also protect your valuable furniture from the fading that is bound to occur from exposure from ultraviolet rays. Tint also reduces the glare on the window, allowing you to pull your curtains or blinds back to take in the view outside. Installing your own window tints yourself can be a very cost-effective and simple process that saves you money over professional installation.

Selecting the Film
You can find window tinting film in a broad array of colors and shades at your local home store or hardware store. Window film in hues of gray, from dark gray to almost clean, and those with metallic finishes such as bronze, are readily available. Darker tint, in general, obviously affords more privacy, but the UV protection and heat that is transmitted is the same no matter the color, including clear tints. To determine the amount of film that is needed for your window, measure the width and height of the window to be tinted, allowing an additional inch on either side.

Preparation
To properly tint your windows, you must properly prepare the window first. Begin by spraying the window using a solution of detergent and water. Choose a mild detergent like dish soap. Use a scraper to loosen any dirt or grime. Wipe down your glass with a lint-free rag or cloth, and don’t overlook cleaning the gasket of the window as well.

Application
After you have cut the film to fit your window (with an added inch all the way around for surplus), peel off the thin liner from the back. Remove this liner cautiously; it can be challenging, so you may wish to ask someone to hold the film as you peel away the liner. While peeling away, activate the film’s adhesive by spraying the back of the liner with the solution that you used when cleaning the windows. Spray the glass panes of the window with a liberal coat of the solution also.

Position the window film on the glass, beginning from the top and working down. A squeegee should then be used to smooth the window film until it is flat, working from the center and out. Leave the edges of the window film untouched. You also want to be certain that there aren’t any air bubbles between the glass and the film; apply additional solution if required.

Once you are satisfied with the film’s placement, use a credit card or other plastic card to smooth the window film all the way to the edges. Trim off any excess film using a razor blade. Next, wet your window again and press the film’s edges into position with your squeegee. Take a paper towel and press it against the film’s surface to remove any excess water. Allow anywhere from a couple of days to a full months for the window film to “cure” before washing the window. Curing time varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, so check the instructions that were packaged with your film.

Author Bio: Jessica Ackerman, author and staff designer at WallDecorandHomeAccents.com, specializes in musical metal wall decor for ships and sailboats metal wall decor.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: home, decor, design, wall art, improvement, remodel, budget, repair, organize, feng shui, clean