Residential Window Film vs. Replacement Windows: Which Is Right for You?

Trying to decide between residential window film vs. replacement windows? With this guide, you'll have everything you need to make your decision.

When you're ready to make upgrades to your home, a great place to start is with your windows. Windows are one of the few features that can make an aesthetic difference both inside and out. Plus, old or outdated windows can lead to energy waste and other costly issues.

However, replacement windows come with a pretty big price tag. Before you make the choice to install new windows, you may want to consider the benefits of residential window film.

We know that there are misconceptions about residential window film that may steer you away from tinting your home windows. We're here to shed light on the truth about residential window film so you can make an educated decision.



Read on to learn everything you need to know when deciding between residential window film and replacement windows.

Benefits of Residential Window Film

You may not realize that you can solve a lot of problems by installing residential window film. Let's take a look at some of the major benefits of residential window film and how it may be the right choice for your home.

Upgraded Look

There are many different types of residential window film to choose from. This can help you achieve an upgraded look without the cost of brand-new windows.

For example, we offer a large line of decorative window films, including colored film, patterned film, and textured film. You can create the illusion of stained or frosted glass in a few short hours, making it easy to change your home's style without any major renovations. 

Sun Protection

Most homeowners love natural light but don't realize the impact it can have on their health. Too much exposure to UV rays, even inside, can lead to skin disorders and faster aging. Plus, UV rays can lead to heat gain in the summer months, making it harder to keep your home air-conditioned.

Residential window film can block up to 99% of UV rays from entering your home without blocking out the sun. That means that you can enjoy your natural light and rely on artificial lighting during the day without the downsides of direct sunlight.

Cost

Even high-quality residential window film costs a fraction of the price of new windows. Window tinting is a great choice for homeowners looking to make a big change on a budget. 

How much does residential window film cost? Because it depends on things like size, shape, and location, the best way to find out an accurate price is to request an estimate.

Versatility

Whether you have clerestory windows, picture windows, or bay windows, we can provide the window film to match. So long as your windows are undamaged and clean, we can install residential window film.

You can also use window film on interior glass. This makes it easy to create design cohesion throughout your home, matching things like shower doors and partitions to your exterior-facing windows.

Limitations of Residential Window Film

Perhaps the biggest limitation of residential window film is that it can't repair damage like cracks or holes in your window panes. In fact, these kinds of flaws can have a negative impact on the installation process. If the film can't lay flush against the glass, it may develop air bubbles not long after installation is complete. 

It's unlikely that residential window film can bring residential windows up to code if they currently aren't. For example, property owners must provide renters with shades or other materials that afford tenants privacy. While residential window film can reduce visibility into a home, it can't take the place of shades or blinds. 

Signs You Need Replacement Windows

Sometimes, residential window film isn't going to cut it right away. While you may still want to install residential window film in the future, these signs indicate that you need replacement windows first. 

Serious Damage

If your windows are warped, cracked, or broken, your best option is to replace them. Serious damage can pose a safety threat in addition to lowering the value of your property and increasing energy costs. Undamaged windows are also easier to open and close, making them a more functional part of your home. 

Heating and Cooling Loss

If your windows produce a significant draft, there's a good chance that they're creating energy waste by releasing climate-controlled air from your home and causing your HVAC to work twice as hard. In some cases, something as simple as resealing your windows can solve the problem, but it may be in your best interest to start fresh with replacement windows. You can maximize your energy savings by pairing new windows with UV-resistant window film. 

Major Renovations

If you're undergoing major renovations, you may need replacement windows to create a cohesive design. You will have to start with new frames and panes if you're changing the size, shape, or location of your home's windows. Residential window film is a great final touch after a major renovation is complete. 

Limitations of Replacement Windows

The biggest limitation homeowners will face when considering replacement windows is the cost. On average, new windows cost between $100 and $400 per window. If you have specialty windows that require custom glass (which is often the case with historic homes), that cost will go up substantially.

If you don't want to make any structural changes to the window frames in your home, you're also limited to available options with set dimensions. Because there are so many different kinds of residential window film options, you may find that you can make a bigger aesthetic change at a fraction of the cost by picking a decorative film.

Looking for a Tinting Company in Charleston? 

There are some serious differences between installing residential window film and replacement windows. If you're looking to make a big impact without the huge cost, it's time to consider tinting your residential windows.

Carolina Tint & Wrap has two convenient locations servicing Moncks Corner and Charleston. We offer residential, auto, and commercial window tinting as well as auto paint protection wraps. To get started, request a free estimate today.