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Decorative Window Film Applications for Homes
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Decorative Window Film Applications for Homes
Privacy

Decorative Window Film Applications for Homes

AP Website Access2021-08-25T13:40:02+00:00

Are you looking for fun and creative ways to liven up your space? While home décor and design changes are always an option, there’s an even more unique way to transform your home: decorative window film. From kitchens to bathrooms, you can use decorative window film in practically every room of your home. In addition to enhancing aesthetics, window film is also a great way to add privacy to an area. If you’re looking to switch things up or make a space more secluded, here are some ways you can use decorative window film in your home.

Residential Applications for Decorative Window Film

Front Entryways & Foyers

Glass entryways and foyers let in abundant amounts of light, which isn’t always a good thing. Whether the plain glass is feeling uninspired or you want to block out the light, decorative window film can completely change the look of your entryway. Window film also reflects heat and UV rays to help you save energy and protect your furniture from UV damage. From frosted glass to stained glass designs, you can go as minimal or creative as you want.

Offices

Even if you work remotely, home offices still need privacy. Decorative window film not only adds privacy to your office; it can also elevate the design. Reducing distractions and creating a comfortable, inviting office atmosphere will increase your productivity and help make your office more of, well, an office, instead of another room in your house that you happen to do work in.

Closet Doors

Some homes have glass closet doors, which can make unorganized storage areas an eyesore. Using decorative window film on closet doors hides the mess and adds another visual element to your space.

Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets with glass inlays are great if you want to show off fancy china or dishes. But not everyone keeps family heirlooms anymore, and you might not want everything in your cabinets on display. Applying decorative window film to kitchen cabinets will keep things looking clean and fresh without you having to worry about how things look behind the glass. Whether you have a modern or contemporary kitchen, you can get window film to match any design style.

Shower Doors

If you’re looking for fun ways to makeover your bathroom, consider adding decorative window film to shower doors. Not only will it enhance the look and feel of your bathroom, but it will also add more privacy. Decorative films, whether it’s a frosted tint or etched design, can make a bathroom feel more elegant and put together. You can cover the entire doors for complete privacy or add film to certain areas where more coverage is needed.

Bathroom Windows

Another useful area to apply decorative window film in your home are the bathroom windows. Some bathrooms have small windows where privacy isn’t too much of a concern, whereas other bathrooms have large bay windows semi-encircling the bathtub or glass walls that leave the inside completely exposed. No matter how much or how little privacy you need, decorative film can transform your bathroom’s design. For instance, natural woodgrain or leafy patterns can contribute to a relaxing, spa-like feel.

Decorative Window Film for Your Home

As the applications for decorative window film for your home are nearly limitless, deciding on the best option isn’t always straightforward. Our window film experts would love to help you find the perfect solution and answer any questions you have along the way.

Carolina Solar Security is a 3M™ Authorized Prestige Window Film Dealer in Wilmington, NC. We have been providing North Carolina homeowners and business owners with window tinting solutions since 1985 and never stop working to bring our customers the best products paired with the most skilled window film technicians. Reach out to us for your free quote today!

Decorative Window Film Applications for HomesAP Website Access2021-08-25T13:40:02+00:00

4 Ways Window Film Benefits Your Space Without Blocking Your View or Natural Light
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4 Ways Window Film Benefits Your Space Without Blocking Your View or Natural Light
Glare Reduction, Privacy, Temperature Control, UV Protection

4 Ways Window Film Benefits Your Space Without Blocking Your View or Natural Light

AP Website Access2021-07-19T18:16:47+00:00

When we think of the ideal home or workplace, the first few features that come to mind are often abundant natural light and sweeping outdoor views. In fact, a survey by Future Workplace found that natural light and a view of the outdoors is the number one desired attribute of a workplace environment. While many people enjoy the benefits that windows provide, we often overlook the downsides of a window-filled space until an issue arises. Bothersome glare, uncomfortable temperatures, damage from ultraviolet rays, and lack of privacy are all disadvantages of windows. While curtains and blinds can certainly mitigate these issues, they also block natural light and outdoor views. Luckily, window film can help you achieve the best of both worlds.

Let in the Light Without the Worry Using Window Film

When it comes to sun control and privacy, the first solutions that come to mind are likely blinds or curtains. However, window treatments eliminate the benefits windows provide, such as natural light and views. Not to mention, blinds and curtains don’t address issues like damaging ultraviolet rays when open. On the other hand, window film is a comprehensive solution that provides all the benefits of sun control without eliminating natural light! Depending on the film you select, window film can also create more privacy within your space.

With Window Film, You’ll Enjoy:

Improved Occupant Comfort

While we enjoy a naturally lit space, the sun can create hot spots and glare. With window film, you can welcome natural light into your space without the discomfort associated with bright sunlight! Furthermore, window film can reject the sun’s heat, leading to more comfortable interiors. Depending on the film you select, it can also provide improved insulation for comfortable temperatures year-round. With window film, you don’t have to choose between sunlight and comfort!

Lower Energy Bills

When the sun heats up your space, HVAC systems work overtime to maintain the desired temperature. On the other hand, poorly insulated windows can have difficulty retaining manmade heat in the cool winter months. As a result, energy bills can skyrocket! By rejecting the sun’s heat, window film not only creates more comfortable temperatures but also lowers energy bills. For energy savings year-round, products like 3M Thinsulate Window Film can improve insulation to reject heat in the summer and retain it in the winter.

UV Protection

When we think of UV rays, we often only consider them before heading outdoors for a day at the beach or by the pool. However, did you know that UV rays can actually have an impact indoors as well? UV rays can enter through windows, causing furniture, floorings, and artwork to fade. Window film rejects up to 99% of UV rays, prolonging the life of furnishings and even protecting occupants’ skin. In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends window film as an effective UV protectant.

Increased Privacy

While windows allow views of the outdoors and provide natural lighting, this can also result in a lack of privacy. Traditional solutions like curtains are an option, but they compromise sunlight and views. Luckily, many window film options are specifically made to increase the privacy of your space. For instance, if you’d like privacy without eliminating sunlight, perhaps you choose a frosted decorative window film. On the other hand, if your end goal is enhanced privacy during the day, 3M Night Vision Window Film could be a solution.

Start Enjoying Benefits of Window Film

With window film, you can enjoy the benefits of windows while mitigating their disadvantages. There is a window film solution to meet the particular needs of your space, whether you require increased privacy, lower energy bills, improved comfort, and more. When it comes to homes and offices, the atmosphere is important! That’s why window film is the perfect solution to create a pleasant environment for occupants.

Carolina Solar Security is a 3M™ Authorized Prestige Window Film Dealer in Wilmington, NC. We have been providing North Carolina homeowners and business owners with window tinting solutions since 1985 and never stop working to bring our customers the best products paired with the most skilled window film technicians. Reach out to us for your free quote today!

4 Ways Window Film Benefits Your Space Without Blocking Your View or Natural LightAP Website Access2021-07-19T18:16:47+00:00

Decorative Window Tinting for Office Privacy
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Decorative Window Tinting for Office Privacy
Privacy

Decorative Window Tinting for Office Privacy

AP Website Access2021-06-30T15:31:53+00:00

Many commercial buildings that were closed during the pandemic are reopening, filling vacant offices and empty desks. The hustle-and-bustle of people around the office might be a welcome change compared to working from home, but it might not be as appealing for everyone in a post-pandemic world. Commercial buildings with large areas of glass can use decorative window tinting to create more privacy and liven up the workspace.

Where to Apply Decorative Window Tinting

Decorative film isn’t just for windows — it can be applied to practically any flat glass surface, making it incredibly versatile. From lobbies to kitchenette areas, you can use decorative window tinting almost anywhere.

Conference Room Walls

Glass conference rooms can feel like a fishbowl, which doesn’t always create a productive atmosphere. Adding decorative window tinting can create more privacy, making employees feel more comfortable and focused. Some films can even double as a whiteboard, increasing collaboration and creativity.

Cubicle Partitions

Cubicles are commonplace in large office buildings with open floor plans. While some cubicles are more private than others, ones with glass panels or walls don’t offer much in terms of privacy. Whether you’re trying to take a meeting at your desk or eat lunch in peace, decorative window tinting or frosted film can add some much-needed division between office spaces.

Storage Areas

Do you have any unsightly storage areas? Decorative film can easily cover glass storage room doors and walls to enhance privacy. It’s also a good option for maintenance areas, kitchen pantries, server room doors, or any other areas you may want to reduce visibility.

Office Doors & Windows

While having your own office is a nice perk, glass windows or doors aren’t the most private. Frosted film or decorative window tinting can enhance privacy, so your office feels more like your office. If you still want to retain some visibility, you don’t have to cover the entire door or window. Partial window tinting is a good compromise that offers some additional privacy.

Decorative Window Tinting Isn’t Just for Privacy

Along with enhancing privacy, there are other creative ways to use decorative film in commercial spaces. You can completely transform the design of an area without the expense and downtime that comes with a renovation. Whether you’re going for a classic, contemporary, or minimalist design, there’s something to suit every taste.

Comes in Multiple Designs & Finishes

Decorative window film like 3M™ Glass Finishes come in a variety of styles, textures, and colors. Go for a sleek frosted film or a more decorative window tint with geometric shapes or a vibrant hue. Decorative window film can also mimic the look of sandblasted or etched glass for a high-end look.

Custom Decorative Window Tinting

Along with preexisting designs, decorative window film can also be customized to strengthen branding, display company values, or promote a special sale. You can advertise, create privacy, and add visual intrigue all at the same time!

Decorative Window Tinting for Office PrivacyAP Website Access2021-06-30T15:31:53+00:00

How Solar Control Film Can Help You Stay Cool This Summer + Additional Benefits
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How Solar Control Film Can Help You Stay Cool This Summer + Additional Benefits
Glare Reduction, Temperature Control, UV Protection

How Solar Control Film Can Help You Stay Cool This Summer + Additional Benefits

AP Website Access2021-05-25T13:53:04+00:00

Summer is almost here again, and it seems every year is a little bit hotter than the one before. Now is the perfect time to prepare our homes and offices so they’ll be cool and comfortable in the sweltering months ahead. While it sounds simple, maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature can be challenging during the summer’s heatwaves. Infrared rays from the sun penetrate your glass windows and raise indoor temperatures, causing your AC system to work overtime. This temperature fluctuation results in costly energy bills, equipment issues, and repairs. Solar control film can help.

What Is Solar Control Film?

Solar control film counteracts issues caused by the sun, including heat, glare, and damage caused by UV rays. 3M™ Prestige Solar Control Window Films are top-quality films in this category. Made with patented technology, the film has 200-plus wafer-thin layers bonded together into sheets thinner than a sticky note. The films are durable, scratch-resistant, and designed to transmit plenty of natural light. They are non-metallic, so there’s nothing to corrode or interfere with device signals.

Here’s how these films address the main issues caused by the sun in the summertime in both homes and commercial properties.

Heat Rejection

Sun control window film’s temperature regulation is two-fold. First, it reduces the amount of solar heat that enters buildings through glass windows, doors, and skylights. 3M™ Sun Control Window Film, for instance, uses nano-technology to block out 97% of infrared light and reject up to 60% of the heat coming through your windows. Secondly, solar control film serves as an insulator, retaining more of the cool air generated by your air conditioning system. Not only will your home be more comfortable, but your AC unit will not have to work as hard to keep your home cool, resulting in lower energy costs and fewer HVAC repair bills.

Glare Reduction

Glare can be annoying, cause discomfort, and make it difficult to view the device screens we use every day, including the screens on televisions, computer monitors, laptops and desktop computers, smartphones, and cameras. The sun’s glare can block our views to the outside, interfere with our vision, and even result in eye strain and headaches.

3M™ Window Films have anti-glare properties that significantly reduce excessive glare. The 3M™ Prestige Series Films, for example, are constructed of hundreds of layers that precisely control light by reflecting certain wavelengths while letting others pass through. This film actually increases its performance as the sun’s angle increases, offering more glare protection when the sun is high and at its hottest.

UV Protection

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight is one of the greatest sources of damage to home interiors. When exposed to sunlight for extended periods, the sun’s UV rays will cause materials to fade, discolor, and deteriorate. These same UV rays also damage our skin, even through window glass. UV rays can cause our skin to wrinkle and age, in addition to increasing our chances of developing skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, window glass effectively blocks UVB rays, but 50 percent or more of harmful UVA rays still penetrate through the glass.

Window film with UV protection reflects up to 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays. This layer of protection not only shields our skin but also extends the life of home and office furnishings.

Learn More About Solar Control Film

Prepare your windows for the impending summer heat with 3M Solar Control Window Film. When you invest in window film, you’re investing in comfort, energy efficiency, and sun protection. Contact the window tinting experts at Carolina Solar Security for a free quote and consultation!

How Solar Control Film Can Help You Stay Cool This Summer + Additional BenefitsAP Website Access2021-05-25T13:53:04+00:00

6 Sunroom Makeover Ideas
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6 Sunroom Makeover Ideas
UV Protection

6 Sunroom Makeover Ideas

AP Website Access2021-04-26T13:25:34+00:00

Sunrooms are inviting because they let us enjoy the great outdoors without leaving the comfort of indoors. With plenty of natural light and wide, wonderful views, your sunroom has the potential to be the most-loved room in your home. But because they are extra rooms in the house, they also can become under-utilized, drab, cluttered, or outdated. If you aren’t using your sunroom very often, it may be time for a sunroom makeover! Here are six ideas that can help you improve your sunroom’s comfort and style. Try these ideas to transform it into a room that you won’t ever want to leave.

1 – A Fresh Coat of Paint

One of the most affordable ways to update your sunroom is to add a fresh coat of paint. Choose a color that reflects the style or mood you’d like to portray in the room. For instance, a clean white can give the room a light and airy feel, while neutral earthy tones can warm the space, and bright colors offer a bold, cheerful look.

2 – Plants

Because they are well lit, sunrooms are an excellent place to display plants. Plants can make the room seem even more connected to nature. Put them in pots with colors and patterns that complement other room decor for a cohesive aesthetic.

3 – Reading Corner

Because sunrooms are so well-lit, there’s no better place to curl up and read a good book or magazine. Why not add a bookcase? There are many styles and size options, ranging from small corner shelves to bookcases that fit below the windows. Stock your shelves with your favorite books or a mix of genres that might appeal to others in your family or visitors to your home.

4 – Dining with a View

If your sunroom is under-utilized, consider converting it into a bright and cheery dining area with wonderful views. This is an especially good idea if you have don’t have a dining room or your dining area is too small for entertaining. You can move the dining room to the sunroom to free up your existing dining room for other uses, like making it a home office. Your sunroom can also serve as an extension of your existing dining space for larger gatherings.

5 – Furniture Experimentation

The sunroom is the perfect room to experiment with fun, comfy, or unconventional seating and other furniture. From a rattan seat that hangs from the ceiling to a rope hammock for an afternoon nap, the options are virtually endless. Thrift stores and garage sales are great places to look for eclectic and inexpensive furniture that can be brought back to life with some spray paint or new upholstery.

6 – Window Film for Comfort

Because sunrooms have many windows, they can be exposed to too much sunlight. This excess solar heat can cause the rooms to reach uncomfortable temperatures. The windows can also permit excessive brightness and fade-inducing UV rays. Professionally installed window film can solve these issues and greatly improve the comfort of your sunroom while helping to improve energy efficiency. 3M Prestige Series Sun Control Window Film is an excellent option. Depending on the variety you select, it blocks between 30 and 80% of the sun’s visible light rays to reduce glare, making it easier to view screens on smartphones and other electronic devices. It also reflects up to 60% of solar heat to help keep sunrooms cooler when it’s hot outside. In the winter, the film helps to insulate windows and reflects heat back inside. The result is better comfort in your sunroom year-round. Window film works without blocking your views and is durable. When we professionally install it for you, it’s backed by a lengthy warranty.

Learn More About Installing Window Film in Your Sunroom

6 Sunroom Makeover IdeasAP Website Access2021-04-26T13:25:34+00:00

Reduce Wear and Tear on HVAC Systems with Window Film
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Reduce Wear and Tear on HVAC Systems with Window Film
Temperature Control

Reduce Wear and Tear on HVAC Systems with Window Film

AP Website Access2021-03-25T20:05:06+00:00

When HVAC systems strain to heat or cool large volumes of air in commercial buildings, this not only runs up utility bills. It also causes undue wear and tear on the heating and cooling systems. This inevitably leads to breakdowns, causing disruption to building routines and affecting occupant comfort levels. When tenants are uncomfortable, they are unhappy and look for someone to blame. It’s typically the building owner or property management company that takes the heat.

COVID has put more strain on HVAC systems more than ever as health regulations and recommendations call for less air recirculation. This means larger volumes of fresh, outdoor air must be pumped into buildings. The problem is that all this extra outdoor air has to be heated or cooled, depending on the season, to maintain indoor comfort. Luckily, there is an affordable solution that can make a big difference: window film.

How Window Film Can Reduce Wear and Tear on HVAC Units

According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), as much as 35% of the energy lost in commercial buildings escapes through glass windows. Keep in mind, this is air that your HVAC system has already worked to heat and cool. Your commercial HVAC unit has to work to replace this air, and that can cause strain and system breakdowns. Commercial HVAC systems are complex with multiple modules. Repair is expensive, and the replacement of worn-out equipment is even costlier. According to HomeAdvisor.com, the average price of a commercial HVAC system ranges from $7,000 to $30,000. The costs can vary greatly based on building square footage that needs to be heated or cooled, among other factors.

High-quality window film can reduce the solar heat that enters buildings through windows. This helps keep buildings cooler in the warmer months. Additionally, window film insulates windows and reflects radiant heat inside in the winter. This improved insulation reduces strain on heating and cooling systems year-round as buildings retain more heated and cooled air. It also lowers energy bills while reducing hot and cold spots around windows and glass doors for improved indoor comfort year-round.

By blocking out unwanted heat in the summer and reflecting heat back inside in the winter, window film makes existing windows perform more efficiently and causes less strain on HVAC systems. Not to mention, this newfound window efficiency costs only a fraction of what window replacement would cost, and without the downtime and hassle.

What Kind of Savings Can You Expect?

Window film is so impressive that the DOE recommends it as an effective solution for reducing energy bills. The savings can be significant and immediate. Building owners investing in professionally-installed solar window film, for example, can see savings of approximately $1-2 per square foot of film installed, reports the DOE, or as much as $19 kWh per square foot of glass. Building owners start saving money right away and can see a return on investment within three years. Furthermore, these savings only factor in costs on energy savings. They don’t even include the money you can save on expensive HVAC repairs or replacement! Additional ways to save with window film include preventing theft and minimizing fading on furnishings and other household items.

Window Film Provides Added Benefits

In addition to reducing energy bills and costly HVAC repairs, window film provides many other benefits that can make buildings more comfortable and improve tenant retention. These include reducing glare, minimizing fading of furnishings, protecting skin from harmful sun damage, enhancing privacy and aesthetics, and more. The combination of these benefits results in a very worthwhile investment.

Learn More About How Window Film Reduces Wear and Tear on HVAC Systems

Reduce Wear and Tear on HVAC Systems with Window FilmAP Website Access2021-03-25T20:05:06+00:00

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