Window Tinting is the Clear Choice for Protecting Your Investments
Posted by Laura Nelson on October 2, 2009
By Sherry Nelson
Did you ever touch a table or the wood floor in your home when the sun was shining directly on it? That heat you felt is called “solar heat gain,” according to Dianne Matecki, owner of Wheaton Window Tinters. That solar heat gain is impacting your furnishings by drying them out and fading them. It’s also increasing the energy use in your home by making your air conditioner work harder.
Matecki has been a local Wheaton business owner since 1978, specializing in custom drapery making and home decor. She, and her husband Bob, have also been tinting windows for 18 years. (They drive the distinctive red and green plaid vans throughout the area). While it’s disconcerting to think about sun damage in this northern climate, Matecki highlights facts about its effects and window tinting that may surprise you.
Interior furnishings such as draperies, furniture, carpeting, artwork and photos are all affected by UV rays. Only window film blocks 66% of the solar heat gain and 99% of the UV rays. Deterioration is slowed by the combination of heat reduction and blocked UV rays that only window film provides.
One of the biggest misconceptions about window film is that it will make the room darker. Not true, says Matecki. The film is undetectable and designed to let in all the visible light. Window film is applied to the inside of the window.
Window film offers substantial energy savings. The new R series film qualifies for the Tax Energy Rebate, saving homeowners up to $1,500.
“Closing the blinds to keep out the sun is still not as effective as window film,” says Matecki. “The blinds act like a radiator after getting heated by the direct sunlight.” Installing window film provides instant savings and protection by reflecting the suns rays before they enter the room.
Skylights are especially important to film, she says. Film designed for skylights can block up to 80% of the heat and still keep the light and sky view.
To learn more about window film and how it can protect your most valuable asset, call Diane Matecki at Wheaton Window Tinters, (630) 853-8468.
Tags:Home & Garden
