When summer temperatures climb or winter chills creep in, keeping your home comfortable without sending energy bills through the roof becomes a top priority. Many New Jersey homeowners find themselves weighing two popular options: window film and curtains. Both offer some level of heat and light control, but they function differently, and one option stands out when it comes to long-term performance and energy savings.
We’re here to break down the pros and cons of each to help you make the best choice for your home.
Home Window Tinting: A Strong Solution for Year-Round Comfort
If window tinting makes you think of cars, you’re not alone, but things have changed quite a bit. Today, residential window films have evolved into high-performance solutions that help control indoor temperatures and reduce glare. They also protect against harmful UV rays while preserving your unobstructed view of the outdoors.
Superior Heat Rejection
One of the key benefits of window film, such as our 3M™ Prestige Series, is its ability to reject up to 78% of the solar heat that typically penetrates through your windows. With less heat coming in, your home stays cooler and more comfortable, especially during the warmer months.
Boosts Energy Efficiency
In addition to keeping unwanted heat out, window film also has the unique ability to help retain warmth in the winter, promoting a more consistent indoor temperature regardless of the season. This, in turn, will result in lower energy bills and less strain on your HVAC system.
Glare Reduction
If you’re tired of squinting at your laptop or TV because of sun glare, home window tinting can help. It softens bright sunlight without darkening your room or obstructing your view. It’s a smart, subtle upgrade that makes everyday tasks more comfortable, from movie nights to remote work.
UV Protection
Long-term exposure to sunlight can cause your furniture, artwork, flooring, and even window treatments to fade and deteriorate. What’s more concerning, however, is the increased risk of skin damage, including premature aging and skin cancer, due to UV rays entering through your windows.
Our 3M™ solar window film, which is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, offers an effective solution to protect both your belongings and your family’s health. These films are designed to block up to 99% of harmful UVA and UVB rays, helping to prevent skin damage and reduce the fading of your interior furnishings.
Low-Maintenance and Long-Lasting
Unlike curtains that can wear out, go out of style, or no longer match your home’s aesthetic, window film provides a sleek, long-lasting solution that complements any décor and requires minimal maintenance.
Curtains: A Familiar Option with Some Drawbacks
Curtains have long been a go-to solution for light control and privacy, but when it comes to energy efficiency, they have notable limitations.
Basic Light and Privacy Control
While curtains are effective at blocking visible light and providing privacy, they are less effective at reflecting infrared heat. Modern window films, on the other hand, excel in this area.
Heat Retention—For Better or Worse
Heavy curtains may help in the winter, but in the summer, they tend to absorb and trap heat between the fabric and the window. This creates a warm pocket of air that raises indoor temperatures and increases your reliance on air conditioning.
Susceptible to Fading and Wear
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will eventually lead to the fading and deterioration of curtain fabrics, often resulting in the need for costly replacements.
Why Window Tinting Comes Out on Top
While curtains can contribute to comfort and aesthetics, window tinting offers a more effective and modern approach to heat control. With superior UV protection, energy savings, glare reduction, and low maintenance, window film is a smart investment for homeowners. It allows them to enjoy the benefits of long-term comfort and savings.
Upgrade Your Windows with Professional Tinting
Here at Energy Solutions Window Tinting, our experienced, certified installers make the process simple and hassle-free. Most installations are completed in just one day with minimal disruption to your home. From helping you choose the best film for your needs to delivering a clean, flawless finish, we handle every detail with precision.
Ready for a cooler, more energy-efficient home? Contact us online or call us at (732) 490-1500. We’ll be able to answer any questions you may have and would be happy to get you set up for a free quote!
