Tinting home windows

[Nikita]

I live on the 13th floor of my building facing west. Most of the wall facing west is all glass (which is one of the reasons I chose this place). I've never put up window coverings because I like the wide open look and the view. (besides I figure in order to see in my window, one has to be quite a ways away and use binoculars, personally I figure if anyone goes to that much trouble to see in my windows, meh, let'em get their cheap thrill). However, the last couple of years I've been getting a little fed up with the late afternoon/evening sun blazing in my windows, usually at this time of year it hits my windows just around dinnertime and when I'm eating alone I normally eat in the living room while I watch the tube. I still don't really want window coverings, but someone mentioned having the glass tinted like car windows. I'm just wondering if anyone else has done this, if you like the result, if it actually cuts down on the sun while at the same time not impeding my view. Or if there's anything else I should know about doing this...thanks in advance if anyone has any advice or answers for me....:)

[jm1]

Most window manufacturers say adding a tint film to their windows will invalidate their warranty and you will have window failures earlier because of this (condensation between panes, etc.) because the film somehow increases the heat on the glass because it's an extra layer.

I assume this is a condo? Are the windows common elements and thus you need approval from the board before doing anything to them (since you won't be able to remove the film later).

[CSK'sMom]

I don't know about aftermarket tint Nikita but the new windows we put in automatically tint down when the outside temp is high enough and the sun hits them. There is a thread here in the H&G forum dealing with solar blinds. They look quite nice and I would think fit the bill of what you need. The ones the OP in that thread ended up choosing are actually see though...

My mistake, the thread in question is actually in the Green forum. Here's the link Nikita...
http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=566984&highlight=solar+blinds

[champlinD]

Try this. Unfortunately I bought this at Sheppard and Leslie and found somebody used quite a bit. That axhole left about 1 ftX1ft and sealed it back and returned. I just returned at the same store and found every one of that is opened pack( Used Pack). Will try other Cantire store.

Insta-Cling® Limo Dark Tint (http://www.canadiantire.ca/browse/product_detail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=140847439 6672422&bmUID=1215372823198&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442405533&assortment=primary&fromSearch=true)


http://www.canadiantire.ca/media/images/products/images/Automotive/InteriorAccessories/SunProtection/0374842_450_CC_v1_m56577569830570020.jpg

[3weddings]

I called our local car window tinter to come out and do the back of our house to just under 30%, I am glad I did! I do have plantation shutters as well, but this allows me to keep them open a lot more than not.

[Dustbunny]

There are all sorts of film options but as mentioned, you do have to check the window manufacturer as you can blow your seal and your warranty by not allowing enough air space in front of the glass. The manufacturer (or supplier) could probably tell you what the deal is with your particular windows and recommend the right film). Otherwise, there are companies who specialize in putting on the films and coatings or you can get them at HD and such. You do have to watch because some films are to cut UV (and they vary by level), some prevent breakage, some provide privacy. The only issue with DIY is if you make a mistake, you can see it.

Alternatives do include other options and you can get sun cutting blinds that are almost invisible when up. Just depends on what you want to spend I guess.

[Nikita]

I don't know about aftermarket tint Nikita but the new windows we put in automatically tint down when the outside temp is high enough and the sun hits them. There is a thread here in the H&G forum dealing with solar blinds. They look quite nice and I would think fit the bill of what you need. The ones the OP in that thread ended up choosing are actually see though...

My mistake, the thread in question is actually in the Green forum. Here's the link Nikita...
http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=566984&highlight=solar+blinds

Thanks CSK'sMom, I'm going to check out that thread right now..

I called our local car window tinter to come out and do the back of our house to just under 30%, I am glad I did! I do have plantation shutters as well, but this allows me to keep them open a lot more than not.

How large an area did you have done 3weddings? And do you recall the cost and the time involved. My glass is about 10' X10'. Since this idea was just mentioned to me I have no idea what to expect (although I'll probably know more after I check out the thread CSK posted). It wouldn't have occurred to me to check out car window tinters, so I already know more than I did yesterday...lol.

[3weddings]

I have 12 windows all about 5 feet by 3 feet and one semi round window. It took him about 2 hours and cost us $400 for all of them.

I'd say you could get that window done under $100....my guestimate.

I really love how clear things look when you open the shutters...like looking through polarized sunglasses!! :cheesygri

[Nikita]

Hmm, well the solar blinds are kind of cool, but I think I'd prefer the tint. Wow though, under a $100 only? I would have expected to pay a lot more, so that's a nice surprise. Thanks for the info guys, time to start making some phone calls...:)

[BradT]

I called Sun Screen Canada in Brampton and was quoted for (4) 18" x 58" windows and a (1) 58" x 60" $400+ to have the windows tinted. I want a film that will stop fading and keep the summer heat out of a room that gets direct sun in the afternoon. Are there any other places in the GTA that do window tinting that I should try?

[coolspot]

Ontario Power Authority is providing $4.00 off per roll of window film through the EveryKiloWattCounts program.

Home Depot.ca has a 20% off window film sale until May 24th.

You should be able to combine both for a super sale :D

The film should only be used on double paned windows; just check the manufacturer's instructions before applying.




Also, car tint and window film is different materials... Window tint reflect heats in addition to tinting. It's also designed for residential windows rather than car glass.
Check gilafilms.com for more info.

Gilafilms is sold online at homedepot.ca for 17 - 25.00 per roll, should last 8 - 10 years.

[michelb]

Ontario Power Authority is providing $4.00 off per roll of window film through the EveryKiloWattCounts program.

Home Depot.ca has a 20% off window film sale until May 24th.

You should be able to combine both for a super sale :D

The film should only be used on double paned windows; just check the manufacturer's instructions before applying.




Also, car tint and window film is different materials... Window tint reflect heats in addition to tinting. It's also designed for residential windows rather than car glass.
Check gilafilms.com for more info.

Gilafilms is sold online at homedepot.ca for 17 - 25.00 per roll, should last 8 - 10 years.

Do you have more info on the EveryKiloWattCounts program savings? I had a quick look but didn't see anything about it.