Pros and Cons: New Home Windows Versus Window Film Retrofit

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Pros and Cons: New Home Windows Versus Window Film Retrofit - Home Window Tinting in Iowa City, Cedar Rapids and the Quad Cities area of Iowa

We came across this great article on the Easy Energy Saving Tips Website and thought we would share some of what it said. The article primarily focuses on the pros and cons of installing new windows in your home versus having a professional window film retrofit done. Let’s see what it has to say.

Energy efficiency is a hot topic across the nation and in an effort to reduce utility bills, some homeowners have heavily invested in new windows for their homes. There are several benefits to purchasing new windows, but a window film retrofit could be the solution to a majority of your needs. So before you consider purchasing a whole new set of windows for your home, be sure to ask yourself these three questions to ensure you are making the best decision.

    • Pros and Cons: New Home Windows Versus Window Film Retrofit 4What’s my Budget? – Staying within your budget is no exception when it comes to purchasing new windows. Installing new windows is not a small investment when the average national cost is approximately $4,500. The pricing depends on the size of the window, the type of window, and the number of windows installed. Most homeowners spent between $2,500 and $7,328, however, some have spent $11,000 or more.Window film installation can be a better option than replacing your windows. At a fraction of the cost, window film provides major benefits comparable to installing new windows. The average payback period for window film can be as little as four years compared to almost 13 years for new window installations.
    • Pros and Cons: New Home Windows Versus Window Film Retrofit - Home Window Tinting in Iowa City, Cedar Rapids and the Quad Cities area of Iowa 3Am I trying to be more energy efficient? – Windows have become more energy efficient over time and as a result have contributed to declining utility costs. Newer windows can better manage passive solar energy, leading to lower heating, cooling, and lighting costs. However, to achieve the maximum benefits, a more expensive window will be needed along with any additional features like blinds or curtains.Window film is one of the most cost effective energy efficient home improvements. It blocks up to 99% of the sun’s UV rays and up to 86% of the sun’s heat, keeping your home cooler and your electric bill lower. While window film blocks the sun’s harmful rays and heat, your home will still receive enough natural light during the day that indoor lighting will not be necessary.
    • Pros and Cons: New Home Windows Versus Window Film Retrofit - Home Window Tinting in Iowa City, Cedar Rapids and the Quad Cities area of Iowa 2Do I need new windows? – If your home’s windows are broken, have rotted frames, or have reached the end of their useful life, then yes, it is time for new windows. If the main reason behind new window installation is to give your home a new look, you should consider window film.Window films allow you to give your home a personalized and unique look without costing you a fortune. There are decorative window films that give your home style while still receiving all of the energy efficient benefits. Installing window film also offers an extra level of protection by holding shattered glass together and reducing the possibility of furniture discoloration from the sun. So before purchasing new windows for your home, consider window film as an alternative option.

We hope that you found this article on the pros and cons of new home windows versus a window film retrofit interesting and it helps you decide which direction to take your next home improvement project. If you would like to learn more, click HERE and contact us by calling (319) 423-9663 or emailing us at woodybruhn@energycontrolofiowa.com. We would be happy to discuss how innovative home window films can improve the energy efficiency of your Iowa City and Quad Cities, Iowa area home.

Daylighting Made Easy with 3M Daylight Redirecting Window Film

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Daylighting Made Easy with 3M Daylight Redirecting Window Film - Daylighting with 3M Daylight Redirecting Film in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Are you looking into ways to integrate daylighting technology into your energy saving goals? 3M’s New Daylight Redirecting window film is a state of the art material that recently won an award for architectural material of the year. This material has been fast-tracked from design to production and is the excitement of architects and engineers. The proprietary design of light re-directing film uniquely gathers the parts of the light spectrum that creates light all while reducing the intensity of the sun’s glare and heat. Additionally, the film will also reject 99% of the sun’s ultraviolet light which is the main contributor to the fading of carpets and window fabrics.

This film acts similarly to a light shelf; however, it’s much more cost effective. Specifically catering towards office buildings, daylight redirecting film increases natural light, which has been proven to increase productivity in the workplace. In a nutshell, the film captures up to 80% of the exterior sun rays and projects the light vertically toward the office ceiling. The ability to capture the suns light translates into lower utility costs as less artificial light is required for employee efficiency. These carbon negative, sustainable film materials also provide LEED Environmental Design Credits which are a huge plus in the architectural and engineering community.

 

3M Window Film’s Daylight Redirecting Film is a cost-effective way to provide natural lighting deeper inside a building while reducing glare, heat, and fading.

These innovative films can do the following:

  • Redirects light toward the ceiling, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day
  • Reduces occupant glare and excess light near window
  • Provides benefit of natural light to interior occupants
  • Can be used with different glass types to achieve different aesthetic looks
  • No maintenance or cleaning
  • Can be combined with 3M™ Solar Film to reduce heat to maximize energy savings
  • Blocks 99% of UV light, reducing fading
  • LEED credits available for use of daylight

To learn more about daylighting with 3M daylight redirecting window film, click HERE and contact us by calling (319) 423-9663 or emailing us at woodybruhn@energycontrolofiowa.com. We would be happy to provide a free, no obligation consultation and estimate of implementing this innovative, energy saving solution in your space. We service Iowa City, Iowa and the surrounding communities.

Excessive Heat Have You Avoiding Rooms or Use Dark Blinds at Home?

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Excessive Heat Have You Avoiding Rooms or Use Dark Blinds at Home? - Home Window Film for Iowa City, Iowa

Do you have a room in your house that you avoid at certain times of the day because of excessive heat? Does the air conditioning struggle to keep this room comfortable at certain times of the day? Have you resorted to using dark blind that block your view to the outdoors just to cope with the issue? If so, a home window film from 3M could be the answer. It’s time to make your rooms livable again!

While curtains and blinds are great for privacy and help to block some heat, they do so at the cost of natural light. A 3M Home Window Film helps eliminate hot spots while preserving the view, making every seat in the house guest-worthy. In addition to making your house more comfortable, a home window film can also help protect your furnishings from damage from the sun. As Summer approaches, a home window film can be the perfect way to improve your home for the season.

3M Home Window Film

  • Reject the sun’s heat while preserving your view
  • Complement and protect your interior floors, furniture, decorative curtains and blinds
  • Increase the comfort of your home

If you have any questions or would like additional information about 3M Home Window Film, click HERE and then contact us by calling (319) 423-9663 or emailing us at woodybruhn@energycontrolofiowa.com. We would be happy to provide a free, no obligation consultation and estimate of implementing a window film solution in your Iowa City, Iowa home before Summer.

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Are You Using Sun Safety Indoors?

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May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Are You Using Sun Safety Indoors? - Window Tinting in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, Iowa

As a way to honor May as being Skin Cancer Awareness Month, we wanted to share this important sun safety information with you. Did you know that you can be exposed to skin damaging UV rays even when you are indoors at home or work? It’s true. In fact in a recent article published by The Skin Cancer Foundation entitled “Sneaky Ways You’re Being Exposed to the Sun’s UV Rays”, they state;

“…you may think you’re safe from the sun’s rays while you’re on the clock. Not so fast: Do you work near a window? If so, UVA rays are coming to work with you. UVB rays, the primary sunburn ray, are largely blocked by glass; but more than 50 percent of UVA rays, the main cause of premature skin aging, can penetrate glass. (Both UVA and UVB rays contribute to the development of skin cancer.) If you’re anywhere within several feet of the window, the rays will reach you.”

That is one of the reasons The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends window tint as part of a comprehensive skin care. In their article “Why Use Window Film?”, they say “Ultraviolet radiation can travel through car and home windows, where it can contribute to the daily accumulation of sun exposure that can lead to skin cancer and photoaging. UV-blocking films can not only protect you against this exposure, but can offer other benefits as well.”

We hope that this article and Skin Cancer Awareness Month encourage you to look into things you can be doing every day to practice sun safety. If you would like more information on how window films can be a part of a healthy lifestyle, click HERE. If you have additional questions or would like to contact us, you can call (319) 423-9663 or email us at woodybruhn@energycontrolofiowa.com. We would be happy to provide you with an assessment and estimate on implementing UV controlling window films in your Iowa City, Iowa area home or commercial space.

Come and Visit Energy Control of Iowa in Booth #55 at The Iowa City Home Show

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Come and Visit Energy Control of Iowa at The Iowa City Home Show

Come and visit us in Booth #55 at The Iowa City Home Show. We would be happy to discuss our window films and how they can help improve your home or commercial space in the Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, Iowa area. Click the image below to get a the $2.00 OFF admission coupon.

The Iowa City Home Show Coupon

We hope to see you at the show. Please stop by and say hello. If you would like more information on the products and services Energy Control of Iowa offers, click HERE and contact us by calling (319) 423-9663 or emailing us at woodybruhn@energycontrolofiowa.com. We would be happy to answer any questions.

3M Low E Window Film Save Money and Control Your Home’s Climate

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3M Low E Window Film Save Money and Control Your Home's Climate - How window tinting Iowa City, Cedar Rapids and all of Eastern Iowa

With the cooler temperatures already arriving, have you ever considered using a 3M Low E Window Film to help insulate your windows? This innovative technology is called 3M Thinsulate Climate Control Window Film and it will help save money and control the climate inside your home by enhancing the insulating value of your existing windows.

Three Things You Should Know About 3M Low E Window Film

How it Controls the Climate in Your Home – 3M Thinsulate Climate Control Window Film helps keep the warmth in during the winter and the cool conditioned air in during the summer — keeping the weather out where it belongs – all season, every season. It helps reduce cold/hot spots, improving overall comfort throughout your space.

How it Increases Your Home’s Energy Efficiency – Enjoy the benefits of a Low-E or “Low Emissivity” window at a fraction of the cost of replacing your windows. Upgrade your existing windows to be more energy efficient by improving the insulation value of a single pane window close to that of a double pane window and the insulation value of a double pane window close to that of a triple pane window.

How it Maintains the Beauty of Your Home – A virtually invisible film that is professionally installed to the surface of your glass. It has a neutral appearance that will not dramatically change the look of your windows — inside or out. The Climate Control Series blocks up to 99% of UV rays, helping to protect artwork, furniture, hardwood floors, rugs and window treatments.

If you would like to learn more about 3M Low E Window Film and how it can improve your home, click HERE and then contact us by calling us at (319) 423-9663 or emailing us at woodybruhn@energycontrolofiowa.com. We would be happy to arrange a free, no obligation assessment and estimate on implementing this innovative technology into your home.

Why Choose 3M Window Films?

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3M Window Films - Energy Control Of Iowa - #1 for Window Tinting the Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, Iowa area

3M window films is known to transform windows for residential owners and building owners to a source of strength link, such as, protecting homes from break-ins, severe weather conditions, sun control and safety. 3M window films are designed mainly to aid in holding glass fragments together and preventing injuries from flying glasses in cases of severe climate conditions. A strong barrier that is created discourages criminal activity.

3M window film benefits

Individuals do cherish the outcome of natural sunlight. However, excessive sunlight does create excessive heat into the building, tends to fade valuable furniture, and does contain harmful UV rays. Choosing 3M window films does allow minimal sunlight indoor penetration, keeps the excessive heat out and prevents any sunlight damages. The results of 3M window benefits are obtained without any changes in appearance of the home. 3M is a better choice for home and building owners mainly because of the following benefits:
• Outstanding heat rejection creates a comfortable home based atmosphere
• Reflectivity caused from excessive sunlight is lower than in regular glass
• 3M window films are known to allow up to 50 % of visible light through the windows
• Heat rejection through the windows is estimated over 60%
• Dual reflective activity provides daytime privacy while allowing easier viewing outside at night
• The tint can be attractive while providing heat rejection and glare reduction
• As a building owner, one may obtain great investment returns due to increased interests
• Vandalism and break-ins are to the lowest

3M window films for Sun Control, Safety and Security

3M windows are beneficial in a working atmosphere; for example, working from home or even in business related atmospheres that involves use of computers does reduce glare on computer screens. Energy savings are on the rise mainly because one can save up to one ton of air conditioning for every amounts of square feet of glass exposed to the sun. Severe weather conditions are unexpected and will maximize flying glass. In the case of the availability of 3M windows, these conditions are minimized. Criminals are always aiming for a quick smash and grab access; any interference or prevention of such easy action will discourage criminal activity.

3M windows are not only decorative and attractive, however, can be easily changed to meet tenant preferences. Individuals have easy access to shop around to find their best choices that meet their budget preferences and meet personal benefits.

Residential window tinting by Energy Control of Iowa can be used to accentuate the looks of your home, reduce the heat coming through the glass, cut the glare and significantly block the sun’s damaging UV rays from flowing through your windows. Contact us today at (319) 423-9663 to learn more about the products and services that we offer.

Decorative Glass Films Open Up Many Home Design Options

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Decorative Window Film- Energy Control Of Iowa - #1 for Window Tinting the Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, Iowa area

Decorative Glass Films is a fresh line of decorative window film that gives you everything you need to answer home design challenges in a visionary way, for new and retrofit projects from large to small, and commercial to residential. Available in many unique film series with a ton of individual styles, decorative glass film can meet nearly any design aesthetic.

  • Elegant Frosts – The frost film series ensures privacy and diffuses light without compromising brightness, allowing it to deliver on design goals for a fraction of the cost of etched glass.
  • Graphic Patterns – Our patterned film styles are available in designs ranging from playful dots to classic pinstripes. Match your décor and design aesthetic with varying levels of translucency, including opaque white patterns.
  • Modern Gradients – A match for current design trends, each of the unique patterns in this series transitions from clear to opaque. Gradient films are a smart solution to partially block out views, selectively hide unattractive areas or add a fresh design element.
  • Realistic Textures – This series of elegant films can refract light and simulate the sparkle and clarity of a textured glass window, without the designer glass cost.
  • Distinctive Specialties – Mask light, add privacy or add a pop of color with this high-impact series including bold hues and opaque films. Enliven retail spaces and commercial properties with customized, unique combinations.

Contact the team at Energy Control of Iowa at (319) 423-9663 for an absolutely free, no obligation consultation and quotation on implementing decorative glass films into your home or commercial space.