It is probably unlikely that you think of glass and ceramics at the same time, but new technology invites new mental associations. Ceramic window film is a non-metallic, porcelain product that is now being used, with significant benefit, in a variety of settings from car window tinting to residential window application.
The cost of ceramic window film is a perfect example of paying out front to insure future savings. Admittedly, the purchase price can be as much as twice the cost of metallic films and even three to four times the cost of dyed films. As an example, dyed films can be found for about $2 per square foot; metallic films may cost $4 per square foot. The ceramic size equivalent would cost about $8 per square foot. Remember though, as with any new technology, costs are usually higher until market size and competition increases and then prices drop. Given the interest in this new material, it shouldn’t be too long before its pricing is competitive with other products.
The immediate benefits can be noted in significant reduction of heat transfer. This material has been shown to reject high infra-red heat up to 96%. Those who live in the southwest U.S. will recognize a two-fold cost savings. When temperatures reach into the 100’s F for days on end, as has been the case these last few summers, running the air conditioner 24/7 is a challenge to your unit’s compressor. Add to this the energy consumption required to run your cooling system, and most people are probably looking to any solution to save money.
Taking the advantages of ceramic window film even further, your skin, your furnishings, carpets and window treatments are going to last longer and look younger (as in the case of your skin) because of this material’s ability to block damaging ultraviolet rays. Ultraviolet rays cause skin cancer and create a number of other chemical reactions that a healthy home environment should avoid. These conditions are not just the result of direct sunlight. Think about sunlight bouncing off of snowpack. It really doesn’t matter where your home is located.
From a strictly cosmetic approach, ceramic window film far surpasses outdated window tints. This material does not in any way restrict visibility. In fact, if you were to look at an untreated window next to a treated window, you would note very little difference between them. Also, because there is a different adhesive process involved in its application, ceramic film does not bubble, making it even less likely you would notice your windows are tinted. This film contains no dyes. You have probably seen standard window tinting that has discolored over time; dyes are responsible for these changes.
This material’s low reflectivity and reduced glare make it perfect for nearly every glass application. In your home, you needn’t worry about the type of lighting you have and its interaction with the tint; and, in your car you need not worry about on-coming headlights creating dangerous glare. Ceramic film is also very durable so this product is an investment in the future of your home.
Technology has a way of creating strange bedfellows. While many new products have just one application or use, the application of ceramic window film is probably limited largely by our imagination. Where there’s glass, there’s a way to apply and use this life enhancing product. A great product is one that builds upon an existing technology, as is the case with ceramic film.
