Add Privacy To Your Home With These Window Film Options

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood, except when it isn't. Maybe the house next door has an overgrown yard. It could be that couple who always forgets to shut the bedroom blinds. Maybe you live across the street from the ugliest house in America. And then there's that retiree who gets the mail every morning wearing nothing but a bathrobe. From nosy neighbors to unsightly views, there are a lot of great reasons to add privacy to your home by installing window film. 

From a subtle frosted look on lower kitchen windows to total darkness achieved with blackout film on a skylight, window film can quickly change both the appearance and functionality of a room. With countless designs available, glare reduction technology, and even heat control capabilities, there are many options to choose from. Peel-and-stick, cling, and removable adhesive versions are easy to DIY and renter-friendly. According to Architect Magazine, installing window film can lower utility costs by up to 40%. Window films also protect against solar glare and ultraviolet (UV) light that can make it hard to see TV and computer screens. Once installed, privacy window film is virtually maintenance free. Whether your furniture is fading in the sun, window treatments are dating your home, or you just want to lower your energy bill, here's what you need to know about installing window film for added privacy, beauty, and functionality.

With options starting at just $0.70 per square foot, decorative window films are a great decorating idea for when you're on a budget. In addition to helping with heat blocking, the myriad of designs available can add privacy and style, especially to bathrooms or front door sidelights. Artscape and Lemon Cloud are two popular brands, offering non-adhesive translucent films with repeating patterns so you can adhere them to any size window. 

Frosted privacy window film is better if you prefer a more neutral look. Available in textured and non-textured options, frosted window film diffuses natural light, making it a great choice for offices or family rooms. Unlike decorative options featuring stained-glass-inspired designs or brilliant prismatic colors, frosted window film simply blurs the view to add privacy. A classic choice, it's functional without distracting from your existing decor.

Both rely on static to adhere to your windows. It's important to carefully measure and pre-cut each piece first, using a straight edge and sharp utility knife. After cleaning your windows thoroughly, the recommended installation method involves liberally saturating the glass and window film with water that has a few drops of liquid soap. Then, remove the paper backing before carefully positioning the window film into place. After using a squeegee to remove water or air bubbles, allow the film to cure for 5 to 8 days before adding moisture-blocking clear nail polish to any seams.

 Consider reflective window film to maintain the look of your existing windows without adding any decorative effect. A mirror-like material reflects sunlight, providing daytime privacy without blocking your view. Many options reflect solar heat back into the environment to keep your house cool. Because the finish is so smooth, one-way mirror and other reflective window films will show every imperfection, from air bubbles to tiny scratches. Another downside to this film is that it doesn't work well at night when it's typically lighter inside your home than out.

If total privacy is your priority, blackout window film is a better choice. Completely opaque, blackout film blocks 100% of light and UV rays. Ideal for home theaters or bedrooms used by light sleepers or shift workers, it also ensures privacy when installed on garage and shed windows or in other places where expensive tools or equipment may be stored. Because it blocks all incoming light, blackout window film can also help you maintain a more comfortable temperature in your home all year.

Privacy window film is sold in rolls of varying lengths and widths corresponding to standard window sizes. Although most films work well to control glass shards in the event of a broken window, some manufacturers will void their warranty when window film is installed. Along with considering looks and functionality, carefully research the replacement and other guarantees that may apply.