How Long Does a Residential Window Film Last?

The lifespan of a window is among the most critical factors that people consider when looking for a residential window film. A professionally installed window film offers excellent protection against UV rays, enhances security, and reduces energy bills.

While these home improvements come with many benefits, people fear that they will not last as long and think they need to be repaired or replaced shortly. But this is not always the case. Depending on the quality of window film installed in your home and the amount of care you give it, your window film can last for a long time. Continue reading to learn more about residential window films and how long they last.

Why Get High-Quality Home Window Film?

Installing residential window film is a great way to increase your property’s value. Best window film falls in the same category as landscaping, paint shades, and other design elements that can add curb appeal.

Having experienced professionals install your home window film means that you will have a high-quality film installed in your house, significantly improving your aesthetic. This can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance.

Another reason to install home window film is to add privacy to your home and security. With window films, you will relax in your house without worrying that people will see through your windows. The privacy film will reflect the light to prevent prying eyes from seeing the inside of your home. You will not need to shut your blinds or curtains during the day.

A high-quality window film will also reject most of the sun’s heat during the summer. You will not need to overwork your air conditioning system throughout the day for comfort. Tinted films will trap heat inside during the winter, significantly reducing heating costs.

Lower energy bills are one of the primary reasons homeowners tint their homes. Last but not least, home window film will help reduce glare, making it comfortable to watch TV and use monitors.

How Long Will Your Home Window Tinting Last?

Here are the main factors that affect the lifespan of your residential window film:

Type of Window Film

The type and quality of the window film you choose will significantly affect the longevity of your home window film. Different tint varieties have different benefits and vary in price.

Some standard home window film options can last between one and five years. While these films cost less, the main problem is their quality. The materials used, the processes, and the overall protection they offer are of a low standard.

On the other hand, investing in a high-quality film means choosing your products from a reputable home window film brand. Of course, these films will come at a higher cost, but they are more durable (they will last more than a decade) and have a higher level of protection.

It is, however, essential to remember that the window film lifespan (whether economical or higher quality films) will decrease with poor maintenance. Ensure to take proper care of your window film for better protection and longevity.

Installation Process

The quality of installation will also determine the longevity of your home window film. The primary purpose of installing home window film is protection from harmful UV rays, heat glare, and solar heat. However, to achieve this, you need to choose the right window film for your house and ensure it is installed properly.

A good residential window installation company will help you choose the best tint film for your home and guarantee high-quality material for better adhesion and longevity. Working with professional installers will increase your chances of getting more return on investment as they are well-trained in film installation. Your film will adhere correctly, ensuring there are no bubbles trapped inside the glass.

A poorly installed window film will not adhere to the glass properly and will tear down sooner than expected. Always go for professional installers specializing in residential film for your home film installation for amazing fit and extended lifespan.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular maintenance is necessary to extend the lifespan of your home window film after installation. Failure to clean your window tints means the film will not provide the best protection possible. As such, clean your windows anytime you notice dirt or at least once every month.

However, when cleaning your tinted windows, you need to avoid using materials that can harm the window films. Here are some of the things to avoid when cleaning your residential window film:

• Abrasive cleaners. Exposing windows films to powerful acids will corrode and lessen their effectiveness and lifespan.
• Alcohol and ammonia-based cleaners. These cleaners have mild corrosive properties that can affect window film adhesiveness.
• Sharp cleaning objects. Objects like pot scrubbers with sharp edges can destroy the film surface causing rips and tears that will extend by the day, significantly reducing the film’s lifespan.

Instead, use a microfiber towel to wipe away impurities.

Local Climate

Your local climate will significantly influence the durability of your residential window film. For instance, if you experience hotter climates (where the sun is continuously above year-round) you will suffer more effects of UV rays with little natural protection. This excess heat will impact your window tint over time.

Likewise, your window film will experience wear and tear if your house is located in areas that experience cold weather as snowdrops reflect light.

That is why you should work with professional window film installers who understand the impact of local climate on your window film. They will advise on the best position and direction to place your window film for better protection and extended lifespan.

Signs of Window Film Damage

You may notice one or a combination of these signs of deteriorating window film over time:

Fading

Fading is the most common sign of window film deterioration. Many different reasons can lead to film fading, including heat exposure, sun exposure, low-quality film, and poor installation.

Bubble Forming and Peeling

The sun’s heat can break down the adhesive that attaches the film to the glass. This will cause bubbles between the window and the film.

Likewise, when the adhesive film attached to the window film wears off due to the sun’s heat, the edges of the film will start to peel off the window.

Cracking

Window damage due to the sun’s exposure can make the film turn brittle over time, making it more susceptible to cracking when hit.

Install a High-Quality Residential Window Film for Longevity

Now that you know the main factors that affect the lifespan of your window film, you are better positioned to benefit from your window film for many years. Residential window film is a considerable investment that can give a higher return on investment (ROI) when done right.

The best thing is to choose your window film from a reputable brand and hire professional installers to install your window film.

Before settling on a particle window film, ask the window film tint installers about the films and warranty terms. Our professional installers advise our clients about the type of products and products that provide great value to ensure they make the best choice. If you are concerned about the longevity of your window film and are looking for the best residential window film that will last for many years, get in touch with us today, and we will help you out.