"We called their 800 number, they made an appointment for the following week. Two people arrived on time. One worked inside the other outside. They moved whatever furniture necessary and replaced it and they were done in less than an hour. We have approx. 20 windows and a patio door."
"Install was easy. Up front cost was pretty low with Angie's List coupon. Monthly price is a little high compared to competing companies. Response time with alarms is excellent. I was advised to use glass break alarms within 10 ft of my first floor windows, which we installed correctly. I asked prior to installation if having one in the kitchen would cause false alarms due to dishes clanging, etc. I was told the glass break alarms are configured to a precise frequency that alarms with breaking glass. So, not a "no", but not really an answer. Well, every time we cook dinner, wash dishes or empty the dish washer, the kitchen glass break alarm gives a warning which would sound the alarm if it was set. This has caused us a number of false alarms while we've been away due to shifting bowls or plates in our drying rack. For the first several we've had to pay our police department $120 to check the house, and I was only notified after the first alarm that there was a cheaper option for a security company to drive by to check for a break in."
"I am purchasing a short sale home, and as seems to be the case, it has taken a considerable amount of time to get all the approvals. I am applying for a USDA loan which requires a 45 day closing window and once the approvals were received, I was surprised by a 30 day window to close so getting the inspections and appraisal done quickly and accurately was paramount.
My realtor recommended National Property Inspections out of Maricopa. Our Inspector, Jeff Arrellano agreed to do the inspection with very short notice. He requested that the power and water be turned the day prior to the inspection to allow any leaks or problems to surface before he began.
We met with Jeff as agreed at the property the morning of May 1st. When we arrived, Jeff had already completed the inspection, loaded the photographs he had taken into his laptop and was ready to go with the slideshow to point out the issues he had found. Jeff took the time to explain every issue from small to not so small and provided us with information as to what the consequences would be if they were not addressed. He prioritized the issues that needed to be addressed, and had the inspection report and photographs to my realtor by mid-afternoon.
What I appreciated most about Jeff, is that he was not rushed, he took his time to explain the issues I didn't fully understand and gave us an opportunity to look at the problems first hand before leaving. He obviously went to some length to get some of the photographs he did, especially in the crawl spaces looking for leaking water pipes and to ensure code compliance with electrical wiring, insulation and plumbing.
Jeff also offered to conduct a thermal imaging reading (a little extra) to determine if there were any weather stripping or insulation problems. Jeff measured heat signatures of all the windows and doors as well as the output of the air-conditioner and heater. Small problems were found that likely will be resolved by a little cleaning around the window rails.
I would absolutely call National Property Inspections again, and would ask for Jeff by name."
Yes, most professional-grade window films include warranties covering fading, peeling, and bubbling.
Home window tinting is generally considered a worthwhile investment due to its numerous benefits. The primary advantages include:
Energy Efficiency: Tinting reduces solar heat gain, which lowers cooling costs in warmer months. It can also help retain heat during cooler months, leading to savings on your electric bill that may eventually exceed the initial cost of the tinting.
UV Protection: It blocks harmful UV rays, protecting your family and pets from sun damage. This also prevents fading and extends the life of your furniture, flooring, and other interior furnishings.
Increased Comfort: By regulating heat, window tinting helps maintain a more comfortable and even temperature throughout your home. It also reduces glare on TVs and other electronic screens.
Enhanced Privacy and Security: Tinting makes it more difficult for outsiders to see into your home. Additionally, certain types of window films can increase security by helping the glass withstand trauma from break-in attempts or severe weather.
It's important to note that not all window tints offer the same combination of benefits. For example, security films are designed for impact resistance but may offer less UV protection, while ceramic tints excel at blocking heat and UV rays but do not provide the same level of security.
Applying window security film yourself is possible, but we don’t recommend it. This task is simple in theory, but getting the product to sit on your windows evenly and without bubbles underneath is challenging for DIYers who lack the necessary experience and tools. You might save money on labor by applying it yourself, but you might also end up with a film that doesn’t look appealing, prompting you to start over and spend the money on a professional installation anyway. Plus, most window film manufacturers will void your warranty if you install the product yourself.
Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are the most energy-efficient and insulating window treatments. Their honeycomb structure is made of soft fabric that forms layered cell pockets. These pockets trap air, creating a thermal barrier that reduces heat loss in the winter and blocks heat gain in the summer. For even greater insulation, consider double- or triple-cell varieties. Side-tracked cellular shades, which seal the edges of the window frame, can further minimize air leaks and maximize energy efficiency.
No, it isn’t necessary to have energy-efficient windows. However, if you care about your energy bill and making your windows more energy efficient, fixing any heat, UV, or air transfer issues is an excellent way to lower your bills and keep your house cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
The Cochise, AZ homeowners’ guide to window tinting services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Can I tint my house windows? Home window tinting is a small upgrade that can yield major benefits. Here’s everything you need to know before taking the plunge.
