Window blinds are traditional window treatments that many homeowners select for privacy.  However, if you’re looking for a more contemporary solution that offers additional benefits including energy efficiency, you may want to consider window film.   Following are some pros and cons of windows blinds and film to help you when choosing between them for your home or office.

Window Blinds
Pros:
·    Help reduce visible light and glare.
·    Provide complete privacy in rooms where you want it – such as bathrooms or bedrooms.
·    Offer a wide array of styles to complement your interior.
Cons:
·    Blinds are tedious to clean, since you have to go one-by-one to remove dust build-up. They are also prone to collecting bugs, cobwebs and dirt.
·    Blinds do not prevent solar heat from coming inside.  They are deceiving because they reduce visible sunlight in the room, but they capture and radiate solar heat from the glass and expel it into the room.  Many homeowners and businesses don’t realize that their electric bills are high because of the heat gain and energy loss.
·    Blinds also do not block UV rays or reduce interior fading.

Window Film
Pros:
·    Window film is typically more affordable than blinds and other window treatments including curtains and drapes.
·    It’s an extremely energy efficient solution.  It rejects up to 78% of the sun’s heat, eliminating hot spots and heat gain.
·    Window film blocks 99% of UV rays and prevents flooring, fabrics and other belongings from fading.   It also reduces interior glare.
·    Window film is virtually maintenance free.
·    It’s easily applied to the inside of your windows – and it’s also easy to remove without leaving any damage behind.
·    Because window film doesn’t allow dust build-up like blinds, it’s more hygienic.
·    Window film increases privacy and security, yet it does not block your view.
·    Window film is safer.  If the glass breaks or shatters, it will be held intact by the film.
Cons:
·    For rooms and areas where you want complete privacy, window film typically isn’t as effective as blinds.  
·    Although window film does offer decorative choices, it’s still not as decorative as blinds or other treatments.  This is especially true for those who prefer a more traditional look.
When choosing between window blinds and window film, it really comes down to personal preference.  If you like a more traditional look that offers complete privacy, you may prefer blinds.  However, for a treatment that offers good privacy in addition to affordability, energy efficiency and filtering of light and UV rays, window film is an excellent choice.  

For your “window shopping,” consult with Home Tint to see which option is best for you!