Q: Will window film darken or change the color of my interior or alter my view?

A: The window films used in residential settings today generally do not alter the appearance of the interior or the exterior view. In fact, 3M's newest series, Prestige, has virtually no tint and yet gives excellent fade protection and heat reduction. 

Q: What are the benefits of installing 3M window film?

A: There are a number of significant benefits to installing 3M window film. Different types of window film (for example, sun control, decorative/privacy, and safety/security window films) provide different types of benefit. Benefits may  include any one, or combination of, the following:

1. fade protection – preserve art, furniture, rugs, wood floors and cabinetry
2. heat reduction – reduce energy costs
3. glare reduction – better visibility on computers and TVs.
4. privacy – office partitions, windows, shower doors, etc.
5. security – storms, explosions, theft, etc.
6. decorative – office partitions, doors, shower doors, etc.
7. skin cancer protection – 99% ultraviolet reduction

Q: Will my windows look like a mirror inside or outside?

A: Most films used for residential purposes are actually less reflective than glass.  However, there is a class of films that is reflective. They are usually seen in commercial settings where they provide the greatest reduction of heat.

Q: Will installation of window film increase my heating bills in the winter?

A: Living in the northeast, the days are shorter in the winter. As well, there are many cloudy days in the winter. Due to these factors, the actual amount of solar heating is not as much as one might expect.  In over 30 years of doing business, MetroSolar has never had a complaint about increased fuel cost after film installation.   

Q: Is window film environmentally safe?

A: Absolutely! Window film is made of stable plastic materials that have no volatile components.  As a matter of fact, there are films that can qualify for “green” status and LEEDS points. MSDS sheets are available on request.

Q: How does window film compare to factory tinted windows and low-E windows?

A: Window films provide significantly improved reduction of ultraviolet and infrared radiation from the sun over factory tinted and low-E windows.  Ultraviolet and infrared radiations are the principle contributors to fading and solar heat gain. Therefore, in order to get adequate fade protection and reduce air conditioning bills, window film should be used regardless of the window type.

Q: Will use of window treatments eliminate the need for window film?

A: Generally, no.  Unless the light is totally blocked at all times by a window treatment, a substantial amount of damaging radiation still comes through. In addition, without protection the lining and facing of drapes is subject to deterioration.

Q: How is window film installed?

A: Window film is generally installed on the inside of the glass. Using drop cloths, the glass is scraped and thoroughly cleaned with a solution of water and a mild detergent or baby shampoo. The solution is confined to the glass surfaces. The film is cut very close to the size of the actual glass. It is then applied to the glass using the same solution. Excess water is squeegeed out and the film is then trimmed.

Q: How do I wash my windows?

A: Your windows can be washed as usual. 3M allows the use of any commonly used solutions, including those containing ammonia.

Q: Does window film peel or bubble?

A: In our nearly 40 years in business, there have been only a handful of cases where peeling or bubbling has occurred.  In those instances, the film was removed and replaced at no cost to the customer, per the 3M lifetime warranty.       

Q: Can window film be removed?

A: 3M films are formulated to allow removal without damage to the glass