Residential Glazing: Choosing the Right Tinting Option

Posted on: 2 March 2016

The process of selecting the right glazing for your residential structure can be challenging. You must consider numerous factors to ensure that the glass matches your requirements in terms of aesthetics and functionality. One of the important aspects that you should evaluate keenly is window tinting. This element is important in improving privacy, controlling light infiltration, limiting ultraviolet radiation and improving thermal performance of the windows. Here are the main window tints to consider choosing for your residential glazing.

Dyed Tint

The most economical window tint to consider when installing in your home is the dyed option. Basically, this consists of a thin polyester film and, in most cases, a scratch-resistant exterior coating. The dyed tint is created by the addition of specialised pigments or colorants into the polyester layer. This type of glazing will darken the windows significantly and prevent infiltration by the harsh sunlight. It will also improve the external aesthetic value of your residential structure. In addition, the dyes on the film will absorb the heat and improve the thermal performance of the window. On the other hand, you should note that the heat absorption can stress the glass and increase the risk of cracking.

Metallised Tint

The metallised window tint is ideal for limiting the infiltration of light and gain of heat by reflection. This type of product is made using a polyester film with metallic granules embedded into the surface. These particles that induce the reflective properties of the tint are tiny and invisible to the eye. However, the film will create a significantly shiny appearance from the exterior parts of the home. The metal particles will strengthen the structure of the installed glazing. Therefore, this will make your windows more shatter-resistant and, consequently, more secure. Unfortunately, some homeowner associations might impose restrictions on this type of tint due to the reflectivity of the film. It is prudent to inquire about such issues before selecting this treatment.

Ceramic Tint

The ceramic window tint is manufactured by embedding ceramic particles into a polymer film. This type of tinting provides ideal performance in terms of managing heat and light in the interior spaces. The particles are designed to reflect infrared and ultraviolet light in the sunlight through advanced ceramic designs. The infrared light is responsible for solar heat and ultraviolet radiation contributes to bleaching of surfaces and skin deterioration. The film will allow significant amount of natural visible light to filter through, and the ceramic particles will strengthen the window. The primary drawback is the high cost of ceramic films.

For more information and options, talk with glaziers in the area, like those at Stevens Glass Pty Ltd

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