Any successful experiences with reflective window film?

10 years ago

We love our views out our wall of windows/sliding doors, but our dark hardwood floors are starting to fade. I'm thinking of having reflective window film installed, but I understand sometimes the film can cause thermal fracturing of the windows especially if there are extreme changes in temperatures. Since our windows face south, but we get blustery WI winds in the fall, winter and spring this is a concern. There are also those memories of tinted car windows in 1990's where the film bubbled and peeled. We're looking for a 20 year solution that won't block our views. Has anyone had long term success with reflective window film, and if so is there a brand/type you would suggest?

Featured Answer

Joyce E

10 years ago

We really like our solar shades. We have the continuous loop chain and I have raised/lowered them pretty much every day for three years, and they still work perfectly. Ours are mostly on windows, but we do have one pair on a french door. In that case, we have a separate shade on each door.
In your configuration, I think you could have the shade come down over the transom and door together. With that width you will likely be limited to certain brands. We have one room with a triple window that I have a single shade and I am pretty sure I have Bali on that one. In my other room with the windows and french door, I have Levelor.
You can order swatches, and I suggest you try this to get a good idea of the different look of the darker shades like the bronze color that Beverly posted, versus a light color. There is a big difference, and you also want to see them in both sunlight and dark.
Your home looks beautiful, good luck with this next project!

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Comments (10)

PRO
Patricia Colwell Consulting
10 years ago
I love solar shades they keep the heat and UV rays out let you enjoy the view and on a cloudy day you can retract them and enjoy the little bit of light. Window films are there all the time and when they start to fail it looks gross.
travelbug01 thanked Patricia Colwell Consulting
PRO
JudyG Designs
10 years ago
To get any protection from sun, the film has to be so dark, you will not like it. Anything lighter...it doesn't work. I've been there, done that. Floors fade, unless you keep shades down during daylight hours...
travelbug01 thanked JudyG Designs
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travelbug01
Original Author
10 years ago
Patricia Colwell Consulting - I hadn't heard of solar shades before, but after a quick search, they could be an alternative. We have 2 sets of sliding patio doors and enter/exit through both sets quite often when weather permits. Would you recommend 2 separate shades per set of doors plus shades on the side lights all mounted inside the trim, or how would you install?
PRO
BeverlyFLADeziner
10 years ago
Solar shades.

Solar shade in charcoal bronze
travelbug01 thanked BeverlyFLADeziner
travelbug01
Original Author
10 years ago
It seems like every investment we've made in upgrades here has resulted in unexpected issues so I can't begin to express how much I appreciate the feedback on the film. Thank you!!
PRO
JudyG Designs
10 years ago
And every unexpected issue winds up costing thousands to remedy. :<(
travelbug01 thanked JudyG Designs
smit2380
10 years ago
Love, love solar shades. I have had the window film. It did not do any damage, but it had some bubbling issues, etc.
travelbug01 thanked smit2380
travelbug01
Original Author
10 years ago
JudyG Designs - Yes, that's been so true!
travelbug01
Original Author
10 years ago
The Solar Shade idea is really growing on me. Does anyone have recommendations on where the top of the shades should go or in which windows? In case the picture doesn't show it, there are 2 sets of patio doors with a transom above them and 2 side lights with a small square window above each to balance with the transom. Each window and each set of patio doors is trimmed separately and the casing is about 3 inches deep.

Also, do you have any opinions about motorized, corded, etc?