A window tinting film is a self-adhesive polyester film that’s applied to your home’s or vehicle’s glass. Window Films are used as a retrofit application for existing glass on automobiles, homes, and commercial buildings to upgrade privacy, safety, appearance, and solar control.
Sun’s solar radiation is divided into 3 components: visible light, infrared we feel as heat, and invisible ultraviolet rays. When solar radiation strikes a piece of glass, window film acts as a sunscreen to block harmful UV rays and regulate the levels of heat passing through the glass. The amount of heat & light rejected is dependent upon the type of window film selected.
If you want to know how exactly window tint works, you should have a working knowledge of common types of window film. The most common types are non-reflective or dyed films that majorly absorb solar energy are metalized or reflective films that absorb and reflect solar energy, and ceramic films, which use high-tech compounds to provide high-quality performance.
Window film works by reducing heat gain and reflecting infrared heat; well, that’s how tint works. Solar control films also absorb UV rays to help protect occupants’ skin and reduce fading of upholstery, flooring, and furniture. But visible light continues to pass through uninhibited, while solar control films absorb UV rays and reflect infrared rays.
How does a transparent window film operate?
To find out how transparent window films operate, we have dig deep into the science of reflection & transmittance of light. Energy travels from the sun through our windows at different wavelengths.
Solar radiation breaks down into 3 types of light based on these wavelengths:
- Visible light
- Ultraviolet light
- Infrared light
Visible Light
Window film products allow varying levels of Visible Light Transmission (VLT). The higher the VLT of the window film, the more visible light is transmitted through the window, and accordingly, the more optically clear the window film will be.
UV Light
The smallest fraction of the sun’s light travels to earth in the form of UV light. Ultra Violet light is identified as the leading cause of skin cancer. Sun exposure is also the main cause of floors & furniture fading. Because of UV light’s damaging effects, XPEL has engineered window films that block up to 99.9% of UV light. It happens without any change to the visual appearance of your window.
Infrared Light
Infrared light consists of half of the total energy from the sun. Infrared light is not visible to the human eye but is part of the solar radiation we feel. Window films are designed to block infrared light to provide optimal heat rejection. It also helps to maintain comfortable interior temperatures without cost.
Window Tint Solution fits everyone
The great thing about window tinting products, especially XPEL products, is that there’s an option to address every desired outcome & application. No matter your window tinting needs, rest assured knowing that the film is working 24 hours a day will give you peace of mind.