Window Tint Film for Your Home

Window Tint Film for Your Home

You work hard to maintain your home and keep it feeling like a place of relaxation. Whether you live in a bustling city or out in the suburbs, your cozy rooms and the right décor help you enjoy your living space. But you can also enhance the comfort of your house by installing home window tint. You may be looking to reduce heat and glare sensitivities, increase security, add style, limit UV light or boost privacy levels.

No matter your reasoning, Rvinyl offers a selection of DIY window tints you can order by the foot in lengths up to 10 yards. Our high-quality 20- or 40-inch, one-ply rolls are easy to work with and simple to install on any home or commercial building window.

What Is Residential Window Tint?

What Is Residential Window Tint?

Home window tint film is a thin laminate film that applies to the interior or exterior of glass. You can install it on virtually anything with a glass surface that requires protection — cars, boats, homes, buildings, etc.

Tint films made from polyethylene terephthalate, or thermoplastic polymer resin, often have three layers.

  • An adhesive portion that’s against the glass
  • A polyester film coating
  • A scratch-resistant layer

The film allows a certain level of light to pass through a window, but reflects ultraviolet rays into the atmosphere. Other properties of tint include:

  • Clarity
  • Dimensional stability
  • Tensile strength
  • Reflection

Darkened films that apply over windows prevent various levels of sunlight from reaching inside your home. They’re available in a variety of thicknesses, grades, colors and shades to help upgrade your existing glass. Non-tinted windows can encourage heat buildup in your home while fading your furniture and increasing your electricity bills. When you install tints on your home or commercial building, you can prevent such misfortunes and create a more comfortable space.

Types of Window Tint Options

Instead of resorting to thick curtains or fiddly blinds, rely on office window tint or home tint film with specific visible light transmission properties. Visible light transmission — VLT — is the amount of light a window allows through. VLTs range from 0% to 100%, and ones with a higher percentage allow more light to transfer through. For example, 5% will let little to no light shine through a window, while 100% VLT is clear glass with no alterations.

At Rvinyl, we offer the following:

  • 5%
  • 20%
  • 35%
  • 50%

Depending on your requirements, our experts can help you decide which tint level is best for your office, home, daycare center, storefront, hotel or classroom.

Advantages of Residential Window Films and Commercial Window Tint

Advantages of Residential Window Films and Commercial Window Tint

Window tint film has more benefits than an aesthetic look to your home or commercial trade. It can address problems from regular glass, such as:

  • Heat and glare reduction
  • UV filtration
  • Thermal insulation and reduced utility costs
  • Privacy
  • Safety and security
  • Added style

Gaining or losing heat through windows contributes to about 25 to 30% of energy use in a household, meaning the heater and AC are putting in extra work to maintain a steady temperature. Tints are a cost-effective method for any of the above problems you wish to resolve.

1. Heat and Glare Reduction

When too much heat penetrates through your windows, shades and blinds can affect your outside view. Tints allow natural light into each room without the intense heat from the sun. Films even reduce glare so you can watch TV, work on the computer and go about your daily activities without bother. Rvinyl solutions can decrease glare reduction more than 90%, making it easier on your eyes.

Hotspots can also be a problem throughout different rooms. For example, if a couch is in front of a window, it can feel extra hot during the summer. Radiant heat gain is when infrared wavelengths from the sun heat objects in your home like a chair, table or couch. Apply window tints, and hotspots will cease to exist.

The larger your windows, the more your home will build up heat on the inside, but Rvinyl tint films protect the interior from the heat and visible light glare.

2. UV Ray Filtration

If you’re looking to ward off harmful UV rays, tints can protect your family and house interiors. Think about your décor, furniture, floorboards, upholstery, artwork and different fabrics around the house. The UV light can fade and even deteriorate your possessions after extended exposure.

Rvinyl residential and commercial tinting can block UVA and UVB rays, guarding your family members, pets, students, employees, patients, etc. Tint films can even protect people who suffer from skin conditions such as albinism and lupus.

3. Thermal Insulation and Reduction of Utility Costs

Imagine it’s a hot day in the middle of summer — so hot that it’s uncomfortable to sit on your furniture. Instead of cranking up the AC and increasing your energy bill, tints can block harmful UV rays from reaching inside that boost temperatures. If you’re looking to diminish utility costs by decreasing heating and cooling costs, tints are your go-to.

Cooling systems in the summer and heating in the winter can run up your electricity usage. Search for the ideal tinting solution that can boost energy efficiency, helping you save up to 10% each year on bills. With solar shielding protection, you can lessen energy costs and save money.

Tints block external heat and prevent warm air from escaping in winter to cut energy usage. When it’s chilly, the film keeps warm air inside, helping maintain an ideal and comfortable temperature. It does the same during hot weather to keep your home at a steady comfort level.

4. Increased Privacy

Keep your office, bedroom, kitchen, living room, classroom or any area shielded from neighbors and passersby. Tint films add the right amount of privacy from the outside to preserve your discretion. Privacy is necessary for medical rooms, exam rooms and similar sectors where confidentiality is crucial.

It’s nice to feel secluded from outside prying eyes. Our tints allow you to go about your business without an uneasy sensation.

5. Safety and Security

Installing a thin layer of the thermoplastic polymer can supplement an extra protection against breaking glass. Whether a natural disaster strikes, foul play occurs or a break-in happens, these situations can result in shattered glass.

Tints better hold the glass in place, even from instances of vandalism, theft and invasions. Of course, broken glass can inflict injury, but film prevents shards of glass from flying. Films maintain the integrity of the glass and help preserve your windows to last longer.

6. Unique Style

Adding style to your home can mean more than a new paint job or colorful throw pillows. Window tint films augment new dimension to a house and can create a beautiful appearance. A unique aesthetic can alter the entire look of your home. Tints can complement the vibe you’re striving for and set you apart from others on the block.

From wanting a fresh appearance and heat reduction to UV blocking and security, residential window films deliver incredible benefits. Even if you’re focusing on one advantage, tints will still provide all the pros listed above. They are an economical solution that will reap positive outcomes, no matter your location, building type or DIY experience.

What Are Your Options for Buying Tinted Glass?

If you’re considering complete replacement of your current windows with pre-tinted versions, you may want to take a step back and make a few comparisons. To start, a thin layer of tint is more cost-effective compared to replacing or installing a new set of tinted glass. Tint pays for itself in a shorter timespan than replacing windows in your home, office or workspace. Therefore, your DIY installation has the potential to save you money.

The only time replacing windows would make sense are if they are in poor condition, have structural issues or if they’re from a historic building. For example, if they need repairs on the frame, rail, side jambs, stile, panes, etc., replacement is a safe investment. If the windows are sound and functional, replacement solutions don’t make sense.

On top of being a more expensive renovation, window replacement is also wasteful. Storefront window tints and home window films are more sustainable than replacement and better for the environment. Unless taken apart from the window frame, windows thrown in the trash take millions of years to decompose. It’s a wasteful option when you can apply DIY tint films in a matter of minutes.

DIY Window Tinting: Save Money Without Sacrificing Style

DIY Window Tinting: Save Money Without Sacrificing Style

Do-it-yourself projects are the best kind of jobs because you get to see the result of your effort. Installing window tints is a simple process when you have the proper tools and the right guidance. Work your way from one window to the next, and if you’re dealing with larger glass panes, get someone to help you install the film. Rvinyl is an expert at formulating products that do well with DIY projects.

How to Apply Home Window Tint

How to Apply Home Window Tint

Preparation is vital before you dive into the DIY project, no matter if you've had experience or if you're a rookie. The first step is to measure and record the width and length of each window that needs tint. With your measurements, you will want to add 15% additional film to account for mistakes and waste during the process.

To avoid the heat of the day, apply the product in the morning or late afternoon. When the solution on your window comes in contact with excessive heat before full installation, it can cause it to dry prematurely, forming streaks in your glass. We recommend the following supplies.

  • Spray container
  • Slip solution — a mixture of one teaspoon of baby shampoo to one gallon of bottled water
  • Edge guide tool
  • Trimming knife
  • Paper towel or lint-free cloth
  • Pressure-sensitive tape
  • Razor scrapper
  • Squeegee
  • Window solution — for application and cleaning

Check out how to apply DIY window tint for homes and window tint for businesses.

Step 1: Clean Windows

Mix one teaspoon of baby shampoo with a one-gallon jug of water to clean your windows. It's best to work with tear-free baby shampoo and bottled water for the solution to provide the right pH and clarity. Don't use a cleaner that contains ammonia or vinegar to clean your window or film because they can damage the tint.

Step 2: Cut Film

Measure the area of each window at a time to determine the amount of film needed. Then, trim around the tint by tallying one inch of extra material all around to ensure precise installation. Roll out the film on a flat, horizontal surface for even cutting.

Step 3: Spray Window

Using the same solution we described in the first step, spray the window and your hands to prevent leaving fingerprints on the glass and film. The concoction helps the tint adhere to the glass while allowing you to slide the film into place.

Step 4: Remove Film Backing

Remove the backing of the tint by using two pieces of tape. Once you expose about an inch of the film's adhesive backing, spray the tint once more with the solution. If you're working with larger window panes, have someone support you. It will help keep the film clean as the backing peels away.

Step 5: Apply Tint

Place the adhesive side of the tint on the glass, starting at the top of the window. Then work your way down. Remove the backing of the film as you move down the pane, so the tint sticks to the window evenly. Once the backing is off, side around and position the film so it's centered, and spray again with your shampoo and water conditioner. Squeegee out any bubbles to two inches of the edge of the glass. It's essential to keep the glass wet, so the squeegee can slide across the window without creating ripples or tears.

Step 6: Trim the Film

Grab your utility knife to trim the excess film, leaving a one-sixteenth-inch border between the window and edge of the tint.

Step 7: Squeegee the Surface

Again, respray the film surface and squeegee out the rest of the air pockets. The bubbles will escape through the space between the window edge and tint. A squeegee creates a smoother and more streamlined finish.

Step 8: Curing Process

Within 30 minutes, the tint film should start to adhere to the glass, and it will cure within four to eight days.

After you complete all eight phases, you’ll have a functioning tint in place on your windows. The key is to measure and install one panel at a time and not to work during peak sun hours. Rvinyl manufactures easy-to-apply films that are ideal for DIY buffs.

Window Tint Film for Your Home

Start Your DIY Tint Project

Rvinyl specializes in crafting DIY products for enthusiasts who love to take pride in their work. Our business window and home tint films deliver a combination of style and affordability. With our streamlined manufacturing techniques that reduce costs, we can pass on economic solutions to you.

We also offer a rebate program when you submit photos of your work. Rvinyl home window tints come with a three-year warranty against peeling, cracking and fading, and we will replace any defective films.

Order online to receive free shipping in the U.S. on checkouts that exceed $59, or contact our team of Rvinyl experts for more information. You can also chat with us live online for immediate support. Our team of experts is here to support your film project on 100 windows or a single pane of glass.