It’s not uncommon to see vehicles and certain homes or offices with tinted windows. People have been using this type of window covering to regulate heat transfer and protect themselves from the sun’s harmful rays. How does this happen? For your better understanding, discussed below is a simple explanation on how a solar control film works.

Solar control film, as the name suggests, is intended for minimizing heat gain and blocking solar energy. Solar energy is the radiant light and heat emitted from the sun. It consists of three parts: ultraviolet radiation (UV), visible light and near-infrared radiation (NIR). These have 3%, 44% and 53% composition in the solar spectrum, respectively. When heat from the sun hits a window, bare glass is only able to stop approximately 11% of the heat via absorption and reflection. This suggests that the larger percentage of the sun’s heat penetrates the window and heats up the interior.

This is where solar films do their part. The unique properties of solar films can improve heat reflection and increase heat absorption, thus, heat that is transmitted through the clear window is reduced.

The degree by which heat is absorbed and reflected is dependent on the type of material used during the manufacturing process. Films that are made to absorb heat use dyes in the manufacturing process.

On the other hand, solar films using metals are able to reflect 55% and absorb 33% of the heat.Metalized solar films are therefore highly efficient window coverings both for commercial and residential use. This translates to about 88% reduced solar energy that passes through the window.

Using solar films also promotes better efficiency of air conditioning (AC) units. The decrease in heat gain means that your AC need not load up on too much energy anymore, thereby saving some 30% on your electricity bill.

Installing a solar control film is a smart and efficient measure to conserve energy and consequently save money, especially for people whose home structures consist of glass windows and panels. It may be the best ‘window treatment’ you’ll ever get.

Click for further information on interior designer or office interior design.. Also published at What Are The Benfits Of Installing Solar Control Films On Glass Windows?.