Solar Window Films

Solar window films help block summer heat gain.

The effectiveness of cutting energy costs by using  reflective films depends on many factors:

• Size of window glazing area
• Window orientation
• Climate
• Building orientation

Silver, mirror-like films typically are more effective than the colored, more transparent ones. East, south and west-facing windows, because of their greater potential for heat gain, can benefit more from these films.

North-facing windows won’t really benefit from reducing solar heat gain. However solar film reduces 99.9% of harmful UV rays from light which in turn reduces fading of furniture and furnishings. They also give you daytime privacy.

Solar film also acts like a low-emissivity film which will reduce about 15% of the radiant heat from escaping through the windows in the winter time

These films have some overall disadvantages:

• Some loss of interior light
  
• Extra care required for cleaning
• Reflections.

These reflective films are available to apply yourself over existing windows. The installation can be very tricky. It is recommended an expert install the film.

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• Awnings

• Blinds

• Draperies

• Solar Films

• Solar Screens

• Overhangs

• Shades

• Shutters

• Storm Panels

• Home

Cut energy costs by making sure your attic is properly insulated and vented. Because heat rises, the attic is the first place that you should check to make sure that it’s adequately insulated. There should be at least 12 inches ( preferably 15 inches ) of insulation in the attic.

Insulation is given an R value to indicate how good it is. For every 1 inch of insulation there is an R value of 3. Therefore 15 inches of insulation is R 45. That is the minimum you should have to keep the heat from escaping. The temperature in the attic should be about the same as the temperature outside.

A properly vented attic will decrease the possibility of condensation moisture to collect on the rafters or on the inside of the roof. One or more whirlybirds and a  few vents should do the trick. Blown insulation is widely used as attic insulation for several reasons. A professional home insulation contractor can quickly blow in one continuous blanket at the proper depth to achieve the recommended R45 insulation for attics. Many contractors offer pricing that includes the insulation itself and installation: usually less than the retail price homeowners would have to pay for the insulation alone. In addition, a properly installed continuous blanket of blown insulation does a better job at at stopping air leaks and subsequent heat loss.

Blanket or batt insulation meticulously installed will be better than a continuous blanket of blown insulation. However, any flaws or errors during installation will decrease the performance. If you have a trap door in the ceiling to get into the attic, make sure it also is properly insulated. Build a cardboard box 15 inches high around the inside edge of the door and fill it with insulation. Make sure there is a good seal where the door meets the ceiling.

• • Attic
  • Basement
  • Garage and Garage Doors
  • Older Homes
  • Windows and Doors
  • Home
  
  
  

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