Installing window film in Los Angeles is a smart way to protect yourself, your business, and your home from multiple dangers. That extra layer of coating can minimize shattering, block UV rays, reflect heat, reduce glare, and increase privacy. With those benefits in mind, you should know the 4 types of window film.

Dyed

Aptly named, dyed film consists of a layer of dyed adhesive polyester film applied to the inside of your window. You might think that the interior temperature might rise because of the film’s heat-absorbing properties; however, heat that escapes the film is transferred to the glass and lost to wind.

Dyed film’s dark tint makes it preferable for anyone who wants privacy and comfort.

Deposited

Deposited film is created via the deposition process, a form of physical vapor deposition. During this process, film is fed through a tank containing metal ingots (nickel-chrome or aluminum). The tank is then made into a vacuum from having its pressure reduced, filled with argon gas, and then heated. Due to the heat, the metal gives off particles that then cover the surface of the film.

The deposition process results in a thicker film than most, which limits possible applications. The relative thickness also creates a darker, more reflective tint.

Sputtered

Sputtered film is created via the sputtering process. Similar to the deposition process, the sputtering process takes place in a vacuum; however, the metal goes through atomic manipulation. In this process, charged ions are blasted at a pure metal in a chemically inert gas such as argon to force the discharge of metal atoms. The expelled metal atoms then collect evenly on top of a polyester film.

Light and fine, sputtered film has the exceptional ability to block UV radiation, though it cannot block heat as well.

Hybrid

Hybrid film contains metals and dyes. With this combination, hybrid film has the benefits of both while minimizing their disadvantages. The film is less reflective and lighter in hue than its metallic alternatives but retains the ability to block heat due to its dyed layer.

When choosing a solar window film, you should consider the individual capabilities of each and which you prefer. No matter your preference, there are multiple ways to find a customized window for you.