Spring is an excellent time to update the look of plain, dull windows but should you use window treatments or window film? Window treatments include blinds, shades, drapes, and shutters that come in many different colors and styles. Their main purpose is to cover windows with flattering material to block light and improve privacy. On the other hand, window film is a high-performance film made of multiple micro-thin layers that enhances window performance and provides a plethora of other benefits when used in both residential and commercial spaces.
Window Treatments
Drapes and other window treatments improve the look of windows by covering them with fabric, wood, cloth, and other materials. There are many different options to pick from to add color, texture, and patterns to a space. But window treatments don’t do much more than enhance the appearance of windows and provide privacy. Plus, they have many downsides. They typically darken spaces by blocking natural light and window views. Window treatments must be manually opened to let light in and closed again for privacy which can become monotonous. Additionally, they don’t allow for both privacy and light at the same time.
Window treatments also require cleaning and maintenance to maintain their appearance, which can be costly and time-consuming. Drapes have to be steamed or washed, for example, while blinds require regular dusting and sanitizing, and shutters must be cleaned and repainted if made of wood.
Window Film
Window film not only enhances the look of windows but also improves window performance for energy savings. It works while letting in plenty of natural light so you can still enjoy your views and well-lit spaces. It comes in many different styles and features for specific purposes, such as enhancing privacy and safety. Here’s more on the benefits of window film:
Have Your Natural Light & Privacy Too
Even as it blocks out sun and heat and reduces glare and fading, window film still lets in plenty of healthy natural light that keeps interior spaces light and airy. With window film, you can still enjoy the view outside while enhancing the privacy of those indoors. In fact, you can customize window film to your desired level of privacy. Yet there’s nothing to ever open or close as you must with window treatments.
Energy Savings
Windows are a top source of heat loss in buildings, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). However, the DOE has identified window film as a top-tier technology for energy conservation with a fast return on investment in as little as three years. You can expect to start seeing energy savings immediately. The typical building owner will save approximately $1-2 per square foot of film installed or up to $19 kWh per square foot of glass, according to the DOE.
Improved Comfort
High-quality window film reflects the sun to keep buildings cooler and occupants more comfortable when it’s hot outside. In colder months, window film provides a layer of insulation that retains heat and retains indoor heat inside. It also reduces hot and cold spots around windows. The result is improved indoor comfort year-round.
Aesthetics
Window film can take dull, plain windows from ordinary to extraordinary and offers many options for creativity. Window film is available in a variety of colors, textures, and patterns. The film can even mimic the look of expensive etched, decorative, or stained glass at a fraction of the cost.
Durability & Ease of Maintenance
With professional installation, most quality window films are durable and backed by lengthy warranties. There’s typically no regular maintenance or extra care required — just clean windows as normal.
Choose Window Film from General Solar Company
When comparing the benefits of window treatments and window film, window film clearly comes out on top. Offering a number of benefits, including privacy, comfort, energy savings, and more, window film is a versatile and worthwhile investment.
General Solar Company remains one of the most highly regarded window film companies in the Washington DC area since 1969. In that time, we have built a reputation for professionalism, integrity, and exceptional service. We serve clients in Washington DC, Montgomery County, Rockville and Bethesda, Maryland, and surrounding areas. To schedule an appointment for a free estimate, give us a call today at 301-231-9500 or contact us using this form.