FAQ
Q. Is the tint applied on the inside or outside of the window?
A. Most tint is applied on the inside. However, we do have specially constructed films that are designed to be applied to the exterior where application to the internal surface is impossible.
Q. Does window tint provide privacy at night?
A. Privacy window films use the differential in the levels of light between the outside and inside to provide privacy. During the day, the light is greater on the outside than it is on the inside thus preventing people from viewing in. Alternatively at night, the light is greater on the inside therefore people can see in. Curtain or blinds must be closed at night to provide total privacy.
Q. How does window tint reduce fading?
A. UV blocking Window tint reduces the rate of fading by blocking 99% of the ultra-violet (UV) rays and by reducing heat and light. This allows your valuable furnishings and fabrics to last longer.
Q. Are windows EASY TO CLEAN after tinting?
A. Our window films have a high-tech scratch resistant coating. Simply wipe over your windows with a clean chamois, microfibre cloth, or soft cloth with a mist of soapy water (i.e. water with small amount of dishwashing liquid, use 1 teaspoon to 1 litre water). Do NOT use Windex or any cleaner with ammonia, as these will do damage to films over time.
Q. Is fitting window tint messy?
A. No, the glass is cleaned with soapy water and drop sheets/towels are used to absorb any excess moisture. Any trimming of tint is taken away for disposal by us.
Q. How long does it take to dry?
A. This depends on the amount of sun that the windows get and the film type. In summer, a window facing west—1 week. In winter, a window facing south — up to 2 months.
Q. Will window tint make the room dark?
A. This depends on which film you choose to reject the heat, fade and glare e.g. SL8 reduces the heat by 85% and UV by 99% with a visible light transmission of 8%. This is helpful for computer glare issues and theatre room light leakage. In most cases, you would not know any film was even fitted.
Q. Which film will reduce the HEAT the best?
A. Heavy metalized films give the best heat rejection rating, as the more metal in the film the more heat it will reject. The most commonly used films are ones that stop 55% – 75% of the heat.
Q. Will the air conditioning work better with my windows tinted?
A. Depending upon the type of system you have fitted, window tinting will reduce cooling costs significantly. It can reduce the pre-cooling time and expense by as much as 30%.
Q. How long does it last?
A. Exterior fitted films will be expected to last up to 10 years before needing refitting. Interior fitted films depend on the type .... the SG and SB series are still going strong even the first jobs that were installed in the early 90's. That's 20 years and counting!
Q. I want to stain/paint my frames, how do I protect the tint?
A. Use only easy release masking tape (normally blue) on film and do not leave on for more than a few days.
Q. Why should I choose you for tinting my windows when another firm has given me a quote thats will cost me less dollars?
A. Having installed film personally since 1977 I have seen many businesses come and go. In an industry that has no recognized trade qualifications or regulations, you can only go on the years of experience, word of mouth and checking out previous work examples. It is a false economy if you save 1 or 2 hundred dollars on a job that everyone can see (your windows) that comes with 'bonus' dust and dirt from day one and then starts to break down with less than 10 years exposure.
Q. Will the tint reflect into my neighbours home?
A. Even untreated glass will reflect greatly if it is at the right (or wrong) angle. If a window is opened out to an angle that catches the sunlight it will reflect enormously whether it has solar film on it or not.
Q. I have double glazing so do I need film?
A. Double glazing is fantastic for retaining the winter heat in a home, but if it is just clear untreated glass the sun's heat will still belt in at around 90%, here is a link on the subject.Click here for more information from Windows Australia on energy efficiency.