The summer heat in Houston can be brutal. As homeowners in Houston know all too well, high temperatures lead to high energy bills from blasting the AC. But what if we told you there was a simple upgrade that could lower your home’s temperature and reduce your energy usage without sacrificing aesthetics or comfort? Let us introduce you to energy saving window film for your Houston home!

Houston’s Soaring Energy Usage During Summer

Houston summers are hot and humid, with average highs in the 90s from June through September. All that heat leads to peak energy usage as we crank our air conditioners to stay comfortable. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average monthly electricity bill for Houston homeowners is $182.39. During the long summer months, bills can easily top $200 or even $300.

With days upon days of high temperatures, Houston homes require lots of energy-intensive cooling. Window films offer a way to block heat from entering in the first place, reducing the need for AC and lowering energy bills.

Benefits of Energy-Efficient Window Films

Window films are thin sheets, typically made of polyester, that are installed on the inside of windows. Special coatings on window films can selectively reduce the amount of visible light, UV rays, and infrared heat that come through the window.

By blocking infrared light from entering the home, window films help reduce heat transfer through the windows. This keeps your home cooler and reduces the workload on your AC system.

In addition to energy savings, window films offer other benefits like blocking up to 99% of UV rays to protect furniture and carpets from fading. They can also reduce glare to make indoor spaces more comfortable.

Comparing Window Film Options for Energy Savings

There are a few different types of window films that excel at reducing heat transfer and lowering energy usage:

  • Spectrally selective window films use nano-scale layers to filter out infrared light and other heat-causing rays while allowing visible light to pass through. This selective filtering reduces heat but maintains light levels and visibility.
  • Low-emissivity or low-E films offer another heat-blocking option. Low-E films have a microscopically thin metallic coating that reflects infrared heat away from the home in the summer and traps radiant heat indoors during the winter.
  • Finally, nanoceramic window films incorporate nanoceramic particles to enhance infrared rejection. The nanoceramic particles absorb and deflect infrared rays to limit heat transmission.

Each of these special coatings offers varying degrees of heat and UV rejection. Consulting with a window film expert can help determine which option is right for your home and energy needs.

Professional Window Film Installation in Houston

Window films can be DIY installed. But professional installation offers some key benefits. The right tools and techniques are needed to properly apply film on large or uniquely shaped windows. Professionals have extensive experience getting clean, bubble-free installations. And they can service hard to reach second-story windows safely.

The professional installation process starts with cleaning the windows and carefully measuring each one. After selecting the right film and custom cutting pieces, the installer uses soapy water during application to allow the film to be positioned correctly. The moisture is squeegeed out evenly to avoid bubbles and ensure adhesion.

When choosing a professional installer, be sure to pick a company that is licensed, insured, and has plenty of references. Reputable installers use top-quality film and back their work with warranties.

The ROI of Window Film

Investing in energy-efficient window films provides excellent returns through lower energy bills. According to studies, window films offer an average ROI within 2-3 years. With professional installation and a quality product, you can expect energy savings between 15-30%.

Keep Cool with Window Film in Houston

Installing window film is a simple upgrade that offers impressive benefits. Few home improvements can reduce indoor temperatures, block UV rays, save on energy costs, and look great. Whether you live in Memorial, Midtown, Bellaire or The Heights, or another part of Houston, window films are a smart solution to beat the heat while keeping energy bills in check.

Contact our team today to schedule a free estimate. We provide window tinting services for residential and commercial customers across the Houston metro area.

Mike Kinsey is the Operations Manager for the largest and most successful window tinting company in the Houston area. Mike has been cultivating his knowledge of window film products for over 15 years and is familiar with top brands such as LLumar, C-Bond, Solyx, and Vista as well as the latest trends and innovations in security, privacy, and energy efficient technology. Since he started working in the industry, he has overseen the installation of over 250,000 square feet of film for residential and commercial buildings of all types. His impressive portfolio and years of experience make him one of the top professionals in the field and are backed by official certifications from 3M, EnerLogic, and AIA for continuing education.