    |
Myths and FAQMythsBelow we've compiled some of the more widely held myths about window films as a reference guide. Chances are, if you have heard about window films, you may have heard one or more of these myths. We debunk each myth showing the falsity of each. If you still have questions or concerns, please contact us. Window Film Causes Seal FailureThis is definitely False, 3M window film has never been proven to cause seal failure. Windows seals fail (foggy windows) at the same rate regardless whether they have window film or not. Window Film Causes Windows to CrackVery rarely. Thermal fractures (cracks) occur because the window is already defective. We guarantee against thermal fractures for five years after the install date. Most cracking occurs in the first year. (See Warranty) Solar Screens Are More Effective Than Window FilmThis too is a FALSE statement. Solar screens get their performance by cutting visible light and absorption. Since visible light is only responsible for 44% of heat, the claim (made by Solar screen people) of 80% - 90% heat reduction is misleading. Further, Solar screens cut at most 70% of UV light. The major cause of fading
3 Things That Cause Heat44% from visible light, 53% from infrared light (invisible light), 3% from UV. 3M Night Vision Series reduces over 70% of infrared light and 65-85% of visible light (not as dark as it sounds) with 99% UV. Solar screens effectiveness varies with the angle of the sun. 3M window film is constantly effective. FAQBelow we've compiled some of our most frequently asked questions as a reference guide. Chances are, if you have a question about window tinting, we've provided the answer below. If your question isn't provided below, you can contact us.
Isn't 3M Scotchtint™ Window Film Hard to Maintain and Clean?Window film is virtually maintenance-free Cleaning is easy. After thirty days, you may clean 3M Scotchtint™ window films using normal household cleaning solutions, including ammonia based products, e.g. Windex, and a soft, lint-free cloth or towel. In most cases, a soft-clean cloth and soapy water are all you need to keep your windows sparkling clean. You may also use a squeegee to clean the film. Abrasive products, which could scratch or damage the film, should not be used.
How Long Can I Expect My 3M Scotchtint™ Window Film to Last?The 3M Scotchtint™ window films we install are composed of the most advanced polymers and are extremely durable. They're backed by a manufacturer's lifetime written warranty for as long as you own your home. Can I Receive the Benefits of 3M Scotchtint™ Window Film Without Having to Choose a "color"?Yes! 3M Scotchtint™ offers a wide palette of styles and hues for you to choose from, as well as new "natural" tones that deliver all the desired protection, yet remain virtually invisible. Isn't 3M Scotchtint™ Window Film Expensive?No. The average installation cost less than most other window treatments. Actually, your investment in 3M Scotchtint™ window film will return dividends in the form of reduced air conditioning and heating cost, and protection against costly fading. What is the Typical Energy Pay Back for 3M Scotchtint™ Window Films?Simple pay backs will vary depending upon the amount of sunlit glass exposure, the type of film, the type of glass, cost of fuel, cost of application, and other variables. However, we have seen pay backs often range in 2-5 year period, with some reported to be even less than 6 months. 
Can 3M Scotchtint™ Window Film Really Reduce Sun Damage in my Home?Yes! 3M Scotchtint™ window film screens out up to 99% of damaging ultraviolet rays to help protect your fabrics, furniture, rugs and artwork against costly fading. Does the Protection from Ultraviolet Rays Diminish Over Time?No. The ultraviolet (UV) protection of 3M Scotchtint™ window film is indefinite. It does not lose its effectiveness over time. How do 3M Scotchtint™ Window Films Work?3M Scotchtint™ Sun Control window films are designed to reduce the amount of solar heat transmission through window glass by increasing the solar reflection (not necessarily visible reflection) and solar absorption of glass. Typical colored or dyed films work primarily through increased absorption. The color absorbs the solar energy at the glass, thus reducing the direct transmission into the room. These films only offer marginal performance when compared to reflective films. Reflective films are films that have been precision coated with metals. These metallic films are designed to increase the solar energy reflection of the glass and some of the absorption. 3M Scotchtint™ reflective films range from moderate to excellent in solar performance (heat gain reduction). 3M Scotchtint™ Sun Control window films are protected with our patented Abrasion Resistant coating for long term durability and maintained appearance.
3 Things That Cause Heat44% from visible light, 53% from infrared light (invisible light), 3% from UV. 3M Night Vision Series reduces over 70% of infrared light and 65-85% of visible light (not as dark as it sounds) with 99% UV. Important Details About Your Installation of 3M Window FilmsAs with all products containing an adhesive system, a drying time is necessary to the achievement of the proper bond to the window. During this process, some changes may be observed. So that you will understand these differences, we would like to note some of them for you. They are normal and should be expected to occur. Listed below, by way of recap, are the points covered by our sales representative.
Note: Sometimes a customer feels he sees a defect in the film when it is, in fact in the glass. It is quite natural that one should look closely at a new purchase, but at times we observe things that were always there but never noticed. A good rule to follow is to look at the installation from six feet away. This is the manner in which we normally look through a window and the way in which you should observe your 3M window film—looking through it, not at it.
©2002-2007 Tim's Window Tinting, Inc. - All rights reserved
|