The right home film depends on the problem you're solving: a hot west-facing room, a view you want to keep, neighbors who can see in, or furniture that's fading. Here are the films we recommend for each, with the numbers that matter. Solar rejection figures are for the darkest shade of each film unless noted.
Best overall: keep the view, lose the heat
Solar Gard TrueVue Dual Reflective
Reflective on the outside for heat control and daytime privacy, darker and less mirror-like on the inside so the view stays clear, even in the evening. Rejects up to 82% of solar energy, blocks 99% of UV, and comes with a lifetime residential warranty.
Best value
Our own dual-reflective film. It gives most of the performance of premium brands, rejecting up to 74% of solar energy, at a lower price per roll.
Maximum heat rejection
ASWF Reflection Silver or Solar Gard Silver
Silver reflective films keep out the most heat, up to about 80% of solar energy. Best for sun-baked windows where a mirrored exterior look is acceptable.
Year-round savings
A low-emissivity film that rejects up to 77% of summer solar energy and reflects room heat back inside in winter. A good fit for colder climates and single-pane windows.
Invisible UV protection
Blocks 99% of UV while letting through 89% of visible light, so windows look untouched. For rooms with art, hardwood or furniture you want to protect without changing the view.
Daytime privacy
A mirror look from outside during the day, with a view out from inside. Remember that the effect reverses at night when the lights are on inside, so you'll still want curtains after dark.
Non-reflective privacy
A dark, non-mirrored film for privacy without the reflective look. Dark absorbing films aren't suitable for every double-pane window, so check compatibility first.
Total blackout
Blocks all visible light, for media rooms, darkrooms and bedrooms of shift workers.
How to choose
- Heat first? Compare total solar energy rejection, not darkness.
- View first? Choose a lighter shade, or a dual-reflective film that stays clear from inside.
- Double-pane windows? Very dark or highly absorbing films can overheat insulated glass. Check the film maker's compatibility guidance or ask us.
- Want privacy only? Frosted and decorative films let light in while blocking the view.
Browse all home and office window film, or read how much home window tint costs.
Photo: Shixart1985, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons, cropped.
