a sheet of plastic over the window
Sometimes we want to decorate our windows, and sometimes we need to do something to the windows to provide ourselves with privacy or to provide insulation. But sometimes we still want the light to come through. A window film is a thin layer, usually of plastic, sometimes vinyl, polyester or other material, that covers the window, but still lets the light through. Some window films are designed to provide extra insulation -- either keeping heat in (for winter) or reducing the light wavelengths that may heat the house (in summer). Some films can provide a decorative look. Some are clear and allow visibility through. Others have patterns or colors to block people from seeing through the windows. Window films can also be used to filter UV light. Some window films provide other kinds of protection, for instance against shattering in bad weather. Some can provide a "scenic view" when the actual view out a window is not what you want.
Considerations[]
Some window films require special adhesives and can be difficult to remove. (Others are applied with just water.) Designs tend to have repeating patterns similar to wallpaper. Some are easier to match up than others and a full pattern before the repeat will vary in size from one pattern to another.
Related[]
decorative window (in this case, the design may be in the window or in a film)
- window treatment
- privacy
- stained glass
- lighting
- insulation
- safety
- window tint
- window
- light
- picture
References[]
- Window Film Information Center Sponsored by the International Window Film Association
- Window Film Magazine
- Wikipedia's article on window film
Vendors[]
No endorsement implied.
- Artscape and related companies:
- Artscape Inc.
- LIGHTEFFECTS
- Thomas Hicks
- Artscape Energy Film (includes information about light filtering and energy efficiency)
- Wallpaper for Windows
- 3M Window Films (less decorative, more protective)
- Gila Film Products, UK site
- Creative Wall Covering
- Window Film World
- Decorative, Film LLC. ( SOLYX® fims)
- Solar Gard
- Llumar Window Film and Window Tint
- Johnson Window Films
- Global Window Films (includes a glossary of relevant terminology)
- Panorama Window Film
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