Wednesday, November 30, 2022
Solar Gard® Ultragard™ UV Window Film
Sunday, November 27, 2022
Window Film - Energy Efficient Window Covering - Energy.Gov
WINDOW FILMS
Window films (applied to the glazing surface) help block against solar heat gain and protect against glare and ultraviolet exposure. They are best used in climates with long cooling seasons, because they also block the sun's heat in the winter.
They can be useful for homeowners who don’t want to block views with other window treatments, but who have issues with glare and solar heat gain. They can also be a good choice on windows that are difficult to fit with other window treatments, or in places where artwork, furniture, or carpeting could be faded by UV exposure.
Films typically have three layers: an adhesive layer that sits against the glass, a polyester film layer, and a scratch-resistant coating. You may also choose options such as tints, UV blockers, or thicker films that offer security. Low-e films are also emerging as an energy-saving option.
Window films are rated by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), which also created window labeling and ratings for consumers. The NFRC’s Window Film Energy Performance Label looks like this:
SOURCE: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-window-coverings
Tuesday, November 22, 2022
Friday, November 18, 2022
What Should I Consider When Getting My Car Windows Tinted?
Window tinting was first introduced in the 1960s and has since become associated primarily with young car drivers. But window tinting has grown up since those early day and now services a huge market with a wide range of colors and uses. There are two basic types of tinting film - metal film and non-reflective film. Tinted windows are available in a wide array of colors, and the most common are silver, gold and basic black. Tinted windows play a very important role in protecting yourself and your car against the harmful rays of the sun, vandalism as well as added protection in a crash.
The benefits are enormous when it comes to tinted windows. The film used for tinting car windows is a high-strength plastic with a scratch-resistant coating on one side and a transparent adhesive on the reverse. The tinting is treated with chemical blockers which can block 65% of the sun's heat and 99% of ultraviolet (UV) rays. It not only protects the interior of the vehicle, but also protects your eyes from glare as well as your skin from sun damage. Window film also enhances the strength your vehicle's glass by holding shattered glass in place.
When you begin to look at your window tinting options, you should first research what is legal in your area. Each U.S. state has separate laws governing tinted windows. Most professional companies specializing in tinted windows should be familiar with the law in your city and can give you a certificate of compliance in case you are pulled over. Fines for all tinted windows can run anywhere from $50 to $500 depending on the local enforcement protocols as well as what aspects of your tinting are not up to scratch.
Some states allow the tint on each window of the car if you have side mirrors, while others prohibit tinting the windshield and two front windows. The color is also legislated and the most common prohibited colors are red and amber. The darkness or opacity of the tint is also a factor in many local laws. This is measured by what we call visible light (VLT%), defined as the percentage of visible light that is through the tint. Many states make exceptions for medical conditions that require heavy protection against the sun. Once you have researched what is legal, you can look at the options and choose the one that best fits your car while still within the legal limits.
While tinting is a job some people elect to do on their own, it's worth considering having it done professionally. It not only looks better, but it will last longer and comes with a guarantee. Although tinted windows can done for yourself, a professional touch will always result in a smoother finish as well as a job with a guarantee. They have the tools and experience to get the job done right the first time.
Generally speaking, window tinting is a wonderful aftermarket enhancement when applied correctly and professionally. Tinted windows can even make your car a more attractive option on the secondhand market should you choose to sell it down the road. Always keep any paperwork associated with aftermarket or maintenance work you have had done to your vehicle so that prospective buyers can see what you've had done and, in the case of tinting, can be sure that the tint meet legal requirements. Going through the time it takes to both research the laws as well as finding a quality tinting shop will ensure your window tint remains a benefit and not a liability.
Kelly is a freelance website content author, in her free time she enjoys shopping and is an avid reader.
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Kelly_McCloskey/1167503
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6626523
Window Tinting by Dana uses Solar Gard film exclusively. Serving the Greater Phoenix AZ Area. Call us at 480-833-5034
Wednesday, November 16, 2022
A Vortex on Glass Light Can’t Escape
Nanotech is being used to improve everything from medicine to batteries and food, but materials pulverized on a molecular scale have other applications that would make even Einstein proud. Solar Gard is releasing the new VortexIR Ceramic Film Series, which leverages nano-sized ceramic particles applied to a window film polymer to absorb and block ultraviolet and infrared light.
“Ceramic is one of the earth’s most timeless insulators and heat-resistant materials,” said Steven Schroer, Sales & Marketing Manager for the Americas at Solar Gard. “Take those properties and bring them down to a size where they can impact and absorb a spectrum of non-visible light associated with heat, and you greatly reduce the thermal load inside your vehicle. Not only does this help us keep the interior of a vehicle cooler longer, but also provides greater flexibility in filtering the visible light spectrum. Essentially we’re able to create a window film with a visible light transmission that could provide Britney Spears extreme privacy, while at the same time would grant Neil deGrasse Tyson the unobstructed transparency to clearly stare out the window at the stars.”
The advanced ceramic technology found in VortexIR blocks more than 99% of UV rays, rejects up to 96% of infrared rays and has a total Solar Energy Rejection of up to 65%. Because the ceramic nanoparticles used in the VortexIR series absorb light instead of reflecting it, vehicle windows benefit from a deeper and truer shade. Metal particles found in many films reflect a portion of the radio spectrum, but the ceramic in VortexIR does not – meaning the advanced application won’t interfere with mobile phones, GPS navigation, satellite radio, and other electronic devices.
“VortexIR brings a new level of refinement and sophistication for those who want a more comfortable interior, while also presenting a highly customizable level of privacy and rich dark appearance to a vehicle’s exterior,” said Schroer. “If you demand smarter protection on your windows that works as hard as you do, then Solar Gard’s VortexIR Ceramic Film Series is the right application for your glass.”
For more information on the VortexIR Ceramic Film Series visit https://www.solargard.com/product/vortexir/
Saturday, November 12, 2022
Solar Gard® Graffitigard 4PLUS : Vandalism... Like it never happened!
Wednesday, November 9, 2022
Solar Gard: What Matters Most to You..We're On It!
Monday, November 7, 2022
4 Steps of Care and Maintenance of Window Film: Residential applications – Interior and exterior films
1. Appearance
It is unlikely but possible, to see a “haziness” or “fogginess” in the film immediately after installation. This is the result of a minute amount of moisture left under the film after installation. This is normal and should not be a matter of concern. This will disappear in a few days, depending on weather conditions.
2. Cleaning window film
Window film is less porous than glass, will not accumulate dirt as quickly as glass and is easier to clean. Cleaning of film is required less frequently than the cleaning of glass. A simple solution of a mild dishwashing detergent and water will suffice for most pollutants. Commercial glass cleaning products are acceptable but not required. Use only soft cloths or paper towels to wipe off cleaning solution. If janitorial service is used for window cleaning, please make certain they receive a copy of this bulletin.
3. Window film maintenance Although there is no maintenance required for the film to perform as expected, there are some steps that can be taken to keep the film looking new for many years. On interior films, occasionally use a silicone polish to provide a lustrous surface to the film. This will also prevent most instances of unexpected scratching or burnishing which could happen to the film. Some suggested silicone products are:
Plexus Plastic Cleaner Solar Majik
4. Tape removal from the film If an adhesive tape is ever applied to the film and needs to be removed, simply peel it off as though it is on the glass. If there is residual adhesive left behind, this can be removed with a soft cloth and mineral spirits or alcohol. If the adhesive is unusually stubborn, then methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) or acetone may be used with a soft cloth.
Call for Dana at 480-833-5034 and let's talk about your tinting needs.
Friday, November 4, 2022
5 Home Energy Hacks – You May Not Know About
Whether the sun is entering a Grand Solar Minimum casting us into a mini ice age or Global Warming will have us wearing shorts in January, there are some practical and innovative ways you can save energy and money to help save the environment and your pocketbook.
The advancement in technology gives rise to energy-saving products and devices. Here are a few energy savings hacks you may not have known can help you and the environment.
Going Low-E
Low-E window film applied to your home’s windows helps to keep the heat inside in the winter and keeps it cooler in the winter. It pays for its self in 2 to 6 years and can help you dramatically lessen your energy consumption.
E-space Heaters
If you only have to heat a room or two and cringe thinking about turning on a heater that will make the whole house or apartment toasty, there are several high-efficiency wall-mounted heaters that have a low-profile barely bulging out of a wall power socket.
Put the sun to work
The solar heaters are energy-saving devices that can provide heat for both space and water. Depending on the type of solar heater that is used (be it a part of the structure of the home or one that engages the use of a mechanical device), solar heaters are a definite money saver. It is easy on the environment too. Greenpeace should love this one.
Be Your Own Big Brother
Knowledge is power and can help you save a ton of it. Devices like Sense Energy Monitor help you figure out what home appliances are the energy hogs, how you can reduce their usage and so much more. Testimonials online have these devices saving several hundred dollars a year.
Get “Smart” with Your Thermostat
Many utilities and even insurance companies offer rebates on smart thermostats. Smart thermostats can increase awareness of your energy habits and help you make small adjustments to save big while staying warm.
Finally, there are energy-saving light bulbs, lamps, appliances, and other gizmos and gadgets. But the fact remains that saving energy is fast becoming the order of the day taking into account the current realities. So, if all the energy-saving devices out there will still not suffice, the “use less and save more” principle will still add a good deal to your savings.
Posted in Architectural Window Film, Featured