"Sales process was good, courteous and helpful. Installation instructions were easy to follow. Did have a small issue with one sensor which was easily solved with a call. Control panel is easy to use and well constructed. Phone app is the best part. Not a big fan of a 2 year contract and the monthly rate feels a little high, but definitely a decent system. I had emailed them a question pertaining installing on double hung windows and never received a reply, but other than that their phone support prior to that was good."
You can easily and cheaply use tin foil or cardboard to black out your windows. Save a pretty penny by cutting either material to the size of your windows and taping it to the window. This is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly blackout solutions, but it definitely isn’t the most aesthetically friendly.
Solar screens reduce glare and block UV rays, which may slightly dim natural light and alter the view from inside. However, most homeowners find the trade-off worthwhile for improved comfort and energy savings. The impact depends on the screen’s color and density, with darker screens blocking more light but providing enhanced glare reduction and privacy.
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.
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.
The most energy-efficient windows are double—or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings and gas fills between the panes. These windows reduce heat transfer, prevent drafts, and help maintain a consistent indoor temperature. But if replacing windows isn’t in your budget, pairing your existing windows with insulating window treatments can still make a noticeable difference in home comfort and monthly bills.
The Eagle Butte, SD 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.