"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."
While it is possible to install home window tint yourself, it is a challenging task that is often best left to professionals. The process can be tedious and time-consuming, requiring steady hands and a great deal of patience, especially for a first-time installer.
Common mistakes in DIY applications include visible bubbles, imperfections, and film that either hangs over the edges or doesn't fully cover the glass. These errors not only look unprofessional and detract from your home's curb appeal but can also reduce the tint's effectiveness in blocking sunlight and heat. If you have struggled with applying protective films to smaller items like phones or tablets, you may find this task particularly difficult.
Attempting the installation yourself and making a mistake can lead to wasted material and the additional cost of hiring a professional to fix the issues or redo the job. Although hiring a professional involves labor costs, it typically guarantees a high-quality, seamless appearance and saves you from having to do the work over again.
Typically, triple-pane windows made with krypton gas filling are the most energy efficient. A window’s frame, glass, design, and installation all affect its energy efficiency. These windows, in particular, are designed highly effectively in terms of their ability to insulate.
Do not use Windex or any glass cleaner when applying window film. These products contain ammonia, which will damage the film. Instead, use the application solution provided with the installation kit. If there is no solution, make your own using 1 teaspoon of baby shampoo and a gallon of bottled water.
DIY is possible, but professional application ensures even adhesion, bubble-free results, and longer-lasting performance.
Yes, you can remove window tint from house windows. You can either use heat to loosen the film before peeling or scrape it away with a blade. You’ll also use a solution to wipe away any adhesive that still clings to the window.
The Montague, CA 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.
If you’re looking for more privacy from neighbors, the sun, or both, window tinting is a great idea. Here are some residential window-tinting questions to discuss with a pro.