All posts by The TintMaster

Window Film Adds an Extra Layer of Home Protection

As a homeowner, the safety of your home is most likely extremely important to you. Similar to locking your doors, window film can add an extra layer of comfort, security and home protection. 

Oftentimes, a glass window can be the most vulnerable point of your home. Our 3M™ Safety & Security Window Film can protect you and offer a great first line of defense! 

What is Window Film?

There are few types of window film that we can install in your home to add an extra layer of home protection:

  1. Tinted/frosted/mirror privacy films: These films can darken your interior and reduce unwanted heat. You can see outside, but others cannot see inside your home, providing a level of privacy normal windows cannot achieve. 
  2. Colorless/transparent films: These films do not darken the interior, but still reduce heat and come with a scratch-resistant coating.

Though the light and heating benefits of window film are wonderful for aesthetic, heating costs, reflective light, and more, they can also increase the safety of your windows. 

Related Articles:

Window Tint Trends: 3M FASARA Glass Films

Window Film Can Make Your House Beautiful and Save Money

How Does Window Film Provide Safety?

Our 3M™ Safety & Security Window Film is a great option for your budget, safety and home protection! The window film is designed to hold glass in place when it breaks. That means if a window gets shattered, it won’t send shards of glass flying everywhere, potentially hurting those in close range of the broken window. Instead, the film can greatly minimize damage and help hold the glass together. 

Due to the strong nature of the window film, break-ins or forced entry attempts can be delayed or stopped altogether. Simply put, our 3M™ Safety & Security Window Film is stronger than regular glass and reinforces any windows it’s applied on. This can also protect your home from extreme weather or external forces, such as hail, strong wind, tree branches, and more. 

Related Article: Sacramento Residential Window Tinting: Add Another Layer of Protection to Your Home

Increase of Privacy

Along with the protection against broken glass, window tinting is great for extra privacy protection. When people can’t look into your home easily, it can provide an extra layer of security. They are especially great for providing extra privacy in any bathrooms. 

Read more on Window Film Security.

TINTMASTER IS PROUD TO PROVIDE THEIR CLIENTS ACCESS AND INSTALLATION OF 3M WINDOW FILM. 

As a family owned and operated business, Tintmaster prides themselves on professional installation, high-quality materials, and unparalleled customer service. They have been serving the Sacramento area since 1989 and have built a reputation for excellence. If you need automotive, residential, or commercial window tinting, give the specialists at Tintmaster a call at 916-852-8468.

5 Things to Know Before Tinting Home Windows

Get the facts on this window treatment before tinting your home windows.

Are you struggling with home windows that are energy-inefficient, dated or weak? Tinting home windows from the inside with an aftermarket window film is one of the easiest and most economical ways to boost the energy efficiency, safety, even curb appeal of your home without replacing the windows themselves.

While most residential window films are lightweight, self-adhesive polyester coverings made of Polyethylene terephthalate (the same polymer used to make plastic water bottles), not all window films are equal or worthy of your investment. Keep reading to learn about the different options, as well as the benefits and pitfalls of tinting home windows, so you can decide whether this window treatment is right for you and how to install it with the best results.

1. Benefits of Different Types of Window Film

There are three main types of window film, each of which is installed for a different reason on home windows:

  • Decorative: As the thinnest of all types of window film, decorative window film absorbs or reflects minimal heat; its primary purpose is to enhance or add privacy to a room. It is sold as a clear or bold-colored film in a variety of etched patterns (such as stripes), stained glass motifs, or opaque frosted designs that keep out peering eyes.
  • Security: If preventing storm damage or deterring burglars is your biggest concern, install security film, the thickest of all types of film. Most security films (usually clear or silver) do not absorb or reflect much heat. In the event of a storm or a home intrusion that results in damage to the window, they do prevent the window from shattering completely by restricting the damage to a large crack, in effect allowing your window to hold out longer. Read More: Adding a Layer of Protection to Your Home.
  • Solar: This option is recommended if improving energy efficiency is your main reason for tinting home windows. Thicker than decorative film but thinner than security film, solar films absorb or reflect (most products do a combination of both) up to 99 percent of UV rays from the sun. This regulates indoor temperature (so rooms stay cool in summer and warm in winter), reduces glare, prevents the fading of interior furnishings, and, ultimately, increases indoor comfort and energy savings. The film is usually sold in neutral tones ranging from silver to copper.

Learn more about Five Key Home Window Tint Trends for 2020

2. Not all window films are compatible with all types of window glass

As mentioned in the section above, different types of window film absorb varying degrees of heat, which some windows are equipped to handle, and others are not. Most decorative and security films block minimal heat and consequently don’t place much thermal stress on the windows. Unless your manufacturer discourages it, you can usually apply them to all three common types of window glass with minimal risk of damage to the glass:

  1. annealed (basic flat glass)
  2. heat-treated (annealed glass that has been exposed to high temperatures)
  3. insulating (consists of two layers of glass with an intervening layer of air or gas)

However, the International Window Film Association recommends avoiding solar film when tinting home windows in the following situations because the film’s higher rate of heat absorption can increase the thermal stress so much on these types of window glass that they crack:

  • Clear annealed glass: thicker than ⅜-inch or that has a heat absorption rate of more than 50 percent
  • Tinted annealed glass: over ¼-thick
  • Insulated glass: over 10 years old or has had seal failures

When in doubt, check the manufacturer’s literature for your windows to identify a compatible window film.

3. Windows without energy-efficient coatings benefit the most from tinting

Older windows without low-emissivity (low-E) coatings (a thin layer of metal oxide on the glass) that block out heat stand to gain the most from the energy savings afforded by tinting. Newer windows with low-E coatings already provide homes with a measure of energy efficiency, so your indoor comfort and energy savings may not significantly increase by applying window film to these windows.

Related Article: Keep the Heat Out with Residential Window Tinting

4. Tinted home windows are economical

Window film is generally cheaper than other popular window treatments that block the sun; solar screens (fabric shades that absorb and/or reflect heat) go for an average of $40 to $280 per window for installs, and cellular shades (fabric coverings that trap heat in honeycomb-shaped cells) will typically run you $45 to $220 per window for similar setups.

5. Renter-friendly options exist

Solar, safety, and decorative window film are sold in three options for permanence:

  1. Temporary varieties: can be repositioned or removed easily and cleanly (great for renters)
  2. Semi-permanent varieties: removable with some residue likely left behind on the window from the film adhesive
  3. Permanent varieties: not designed to be removed

Decorative film is more often sold as a temporary tinting solution, which makes it an option for renters or commitment-phobic homeowners, while solar and security film more often tend to be semi-permanent or permanent options for tinting home windows, which make them more suitable for homeowners.

Tintmaster is Proud to Provide their Clients Window Tint Options for their Homes

If you need window tinting, Tintmaster is the place to call. Whether you want window tinting for your home, your office or your car, you can count on Tintmaster to do it right and to stand behind our work. We use quality films installed by experienced and professional installers with years of experience. We can give you the option of several different types of film to fit your project and your budget. Don’t go with some fly-by-night window tinting company in the Sacramento area. Choose the experts you can depend on to do it right and to be here tomorrow.

Related Article: 3 Reasons to Choose Tintmaster for Your Window Tinting

As a family owned and operated business, Tintmaster prides themselves on professional installation, high-quality materials, and unparalleled customer service. They have been serving the Sacramento area since 1989 and have built a reputation for excellence. If you need automotiveresidential, or commercial window tinting, give the specialists at Tintmaster a call at 916-852-8468.

Extra Level of Home Window Security with Window Film

Glass broken cracks splinters in front of the bus station

Make your windows hard to penetrate – and help keep outside dangers from getting in.

Break-ins. Natural disasters. Stray baseballs. Whatever the cause of impact, glass doors and windows are vulnerable to damage – and broken glass poses a hazard of its own. You can’t control crime, accidents or the weather, but you can get an added layer of home window security and protection – one that’s virtually invisible.

3M™ Safety & Security Window Films make glass harder to penetrate and hold shattered pieces in place, helping keep both people and property safe from dangers posed by intruders, severe weather and broken glass. For an even higher level of protection and home window security, the 3M™ Impact Protection Attachment System securely fixes the filmed window to the frame, turning your window into a robust shield capable of withstanding forced entry, earthquakes and even bomb blasts.

Break-ins and burglaries

Every 18 seconds, there is a burglary somewhere in the United States. Locks and security systems deter some burglars, but what about your home’s most vulnerable points of entry?

3M Safety & Security Window Films make it harder to break through your glass doors and windows. Instead of a quick smash and grab job, a would-be robber is faced with a window that won’t yield quickly or quietly. And the longer it takes an intruder to break through, the longer you have to get help.

Related Article: Sacramento Residential Window Tinting: Add a Layer of Protection to Your Home

Accidents and natural disasters

When disaster strikes, can your windows take a beating without shattering into dangerous shards of glass? From everyday accidents to airborne storm debris and even seismic activity, windows are vulnerable to damage.

Whatever the cause of breakage, 3M Safety & Security Window Films can help reduce the risk of injury from flying glass. These micro-layered and tear-resistant films hold the fragments in place – where they can’t hurt your family or your belongings.

With vs. without 3M™ Safety & Security Window Film

Break-and-enter robberies typically involve breaking a window. Glass shatters and falls, and a burglar gains easy entrance. But if the window is protected by 3M™ Safety & Security Window Film, any glass that shatters stays in place – deterring intruders and gaining precious time for you and your family.

Check out the top 5 window film trends for 2020 HERE.

Tintmaster is proud to provide their clients access and installation of 3M window film.

As a family owned and operated business, Tintmaster prides themselves on professional installation, high-quality materials, and unparalleled customer service. They have been serving the Sacramento area since 1989 and have built a reputation for excellence. If you need automotiveresidential, or commercial window tinting, give the specialists at Tintmaster a call at 916-852-8468.

Tintmaster Vendor Spotlight: 3M Committed to COVID-19 Fight

Tintmaster is proud to offer and install 3M window films for commercial, residential and automotive use. At this time, we would like to spotlight 3M during this unprecedented time in our history to let you know how they are focused on the global pandemic COVID-19 fight.

Guided by our legacy of applying science to confront challenges facing the world

At 3M, we are fully committed to helping fight the spread of COVID-19 by supporting the healthcare workers in the United States and worldwide. 

This pandemic is affecting all of us, and we are doing everything we can to support public health – including doubling our global output of N95 respirators and getting them to healthcare providers on the front lines of the pandemic. 

“We are mobilizing all available resources and rapidly increasing output of critical supplies healthcare workers in the United States and around the world need to help protect their lives as they treat others,” says Mike Roman, 3M chairman and chief executive officer. 

We are working with governments, medical officials, customers and distributors around the world to help get supplies where they are needed most. 

We encourage customers to work with their normal sales and distribution partners when it comes to sourcing product. 

To learn more about how we’re increasing production of personal protective equipment in the face of the pandemic, read more here >  

Learn about critical 3M products and access helpful resources

A key to combating the spread of COVID-19 is using appropriate products correctly.

Commercial Cleaning Solutions

Get information and application tips on 3M cleaning and disinfectant products for use by facility managers, building service contractors and all who clean public spaces.

Learn more about commercial cleaning solutions

worker wearing medical gloves cleaning hospital equipment

Respiratory Protection

Proper selection and use are key to utilizing respirators to help reduce exposure to airborne contaminants. Find Technical Bulletins, How to Videos, Fit Testing Resources and more information to help you protect your employees and yourself.  

Learn more about respiratory protection

health care provider wearing full body suit, a particulate respirator and eye goggles talking with patient in mask

Supporting Health Care Providers

Every day, health care workers on the front lines put themselves at risk to ensure others are cared for. 3M Medical offers resources and information to help protect providers and patients, especially during this challenging time.

Learn more about health care provider resources

health care worker in a protective respirator and goggles conversing with patient

Tintmaster is proud to provide their clients access and installation of 3M window film.

As a family owned and operated business, Tintmaster prides themselves on professional installation, high-quality materials, and unparalleled customer service. They have been serving the Sacramento area since 1989 and have built a reputation for excellence. If you need automotiveresidential, or commercial window tinting, give the specialists at Tintmaster a call at 916-852-8468.

Window Films: Five Key Trends for 2020

According to The International Window Film Association (IWFA) five key trends for window films in 2020 have emerged.

As we know, window films or window tints offer multiple benefits and are proven to be cost-effective products to upgrade older existing windows in good condition to achieve:

  • Improved energy savings
  • Safety
  • UV protection from the sun’s harmful rays

Window Films: Five Key Trends for 2020

Schools may increasingly use security window films to help protect people and save more energy

Windows do wonders for a class environment, as the brightness and openness they create is conducive for learning and overall morale.

But in times of a crisis, they can also become a liability.

According to BeSafe Technologies, to ensure they do not become one, utilizing school security window films can serve as a stellar line of defense. Having these security measures on the classroom windows and exterior entrances of a school can help prevent the entry of an armed and dangerous intruder. And, when utilized within a school’s interior, they can be key in preventing an attacker from gaining access to areas of a school where they can continue to do more harm.

School Security Window Film

Window film is, in essence, a stellar option for windows that are not bulletproofed but need an additional layer of protection. Literally a near-invisible film that is applied to windows and makes them much harder to break through, due to an increase in thickness and the adhesiveness of the film.

The most well-known and common kind is 3M Ballistic film. There are two variations that work well together and are commonly utilized, the S140 and Ultra S600. The S140 helps hold broken glass together, and the Ultra S600 excels at tear-resistance.

About 3m Ballistic Film

While 3M will be the first to tell you that their Ballistic Film is not bulletproof, it is vital in helping slow-down intruders thanks to its retention of broken-up window fragments that makes breaking through glass harder. Thus, it provides valuable extra-time for law enforcement to arrive and helps put a stop to any would-be violent intruders.
This especially holds true when the S140 and Ultra S600 are used in conjunction, although they can utilized separately.

Is ballistic film for windows a smart choice?

Should someone desire to have more protection than a simple window but are unable to afford an option such as bulletproof glass, then ballistic film is worth considering. For the reasons above, S140 or Ultra S600 are among the best, whether used in conjunction with each other or independently. Plus, 3M is well-known for their quality products.

They are by no means able to offer a level of protection found with bulletproof glass but provide a degree of protection thanks to their ability to resist damage and slow down a potential intruder.

Other 3m Security Films

Even if ballistic film of the S140 or S600-level are not being used, there are general security films that can be beneficial to schools to install and use. At levels such as S40, S70, and S80, these films are great for reducing the damage of broken-glass from natural (or human) causes and still can be of assistance in an emergency situation.

They are much-less resistant to bullets, of course, hence not featuring any mention of ballistics in the product itself.

3m Security Film for Commercial Usage

As this is an extensive overview it should be mentioned even if it does not directly apply to school safety, that 3m has security film designed for commercial usage. These commercial-use films are explicitly designed to help prevent possible damage from wildlife, such as bird strikes, as well as make “smash and grab” burglaries more difficult.

This kind of film of course is not as useful for a school-setting but helps to illustrate just how many options exist for window film.

3m Security Film Installation

Generally, professional installation is highly recommended. It can cost only $50-$80 per window and be done perfectly, easily saving money that could be lost through shoddy self-installation. On top of that, incorrect installation could result in reduced effectiveness of the film, and become a major risk to the safety of those inside. Again, if you are already spending the money on window film, it makes a great deal of sense to pay a bit extra and have professional installation done.

Of course, none of these options are a cure-all for the dangers a school may face. But as windows and doors are often the first thing an intruder, or possible school-shooter will encounter, having them reinforced via whatever means are both possible and affordable is clearly a wise choice.

Read the entire article here.

Communities adopting carbon reduction programs for buildings may view window films as a cost-effective means to help reduce carbon emissions

Savings You Can See.

Get a fast payback with significant savings:

The Department of Energy considers window film a top-tier technology for energy conservation with one of the fastest paybacks — approximately three years. Upgrading your windows with 3M™ Window Film can help you achieve significant savings. You could save $1 to $2 per square foot of film installed, or as much as 19 kWh per square foot of glass. Building owners around the world are already taking advantage of these savings — isn’t it time you did too?

  • Reduce heat gain in summer months by up to 79%
    • Save as much as 19 kWh per square foot of glass
    • Fast payback — as little as 3 years
    • Many utility companies offer incentives
    • 3M™ Window Films are proven to save energy in all climate zones
    • 3M can complete an Energy Plus energy audit on your building to calculate your projected savings

Sustainability.

Reduce your energy use and your carbon emissions.

Taking control of your environment with 3M™ Window Films is better for our environment. By rejecting the heat of the sun, you use less energy. By keeping your window treatments open, you use less electric lighting and save on energy costs. By upgrading your existing windows, you’re keeping them out of the landfill.

  • Keep your existing windows
    • Reduce light pollution
    • Let in natural light while rejecting heat
    • Lower your energy consumption
    • Help qualify for LEED credits
    • 3M™ Window Films can become carbon negative in as short as 6 months from install

Get additional information from 3M here.

The trend toward natural daylighting in buildings is likely to continue

According to a new study conducted by Alan Hedge, a professor in the Department of Design and Environmental Analysis at Cornell, workers in daylit office environments reported an 84 percent drop in symptoms of eyestrain, headaches and blurred vision symptoms, which can detract from productivity.

“The study found that optimizing the amount of natural light in an office significantly improves health and wellness among workers, leading to gains in productivity,” said Hedge. “As companies increasingly look to empower their employees to work better and be healthier, it is clear that placing them in office spaces with optimal natural light should be one of their first considerations.”

With Americans, on average, spending more than 90 percent of their time indoors, providing the optimal amount of natural light is vital. Unfortunately, office environments introduce a number of challenges. Most notably, uncontrolled natural light can cause unwanted heat that can lead to intra-office “thermostat wars” and excessive glare on occupants’ eyes and computer screens. Consequently, windows are often covered with blinds or shades, contributing to poorly day-lit spaces.

To conduct the study, Hedge compared the experiences of workers in offices with traditional windows to workers in offices with auto-tinting “smart” windows that adapt to and control the sun’s energy to optimize natural light and reduce glare. The smart windows were manufactured by View Dynamic Glass.

Key findings of the study include:

  • Controlled daylight unlocks significant health and wellness benefits for office workers. Workers in office environments with optimized natural light reported an 84 percent drop in symptoms of eyestrain, headaches and blurred vision symptoms, which often result from prolonged computer and device use at work and can detract from productivity.
  • More natural light translates to more alert employees. Workers in offices with smart glass reported a 10 percent decrease in drowsiness.
  • Enhanced individual performance is tied to access to natural light. Workers sitting close to a window that optimized daylight exposure reported a 2 percent increase in productivity – the equivalent of an additional $100,000/year of value for every 100 workers or around $2m over the window’s lifetime.
  • Natural light creates a better indoor experience. Workers in offices with smart glass reported a 40 percent increase in daylight quality. Lack of daylight and access to views decreases the ability for the eye to relax and recover from fatigue. Additionally, workers in proximity to windows report 80 percent higher daylight satisfaction.

“Despite their best intentions, companies are unwittingly detracting from their employees’ health and performance by limiting their access to natural light,” said Dr. Brandon Tinianov, chair of the U.S. Green Building Council’s Advisory Council and vice president of industry strategy at View. “These findings are a wake-up call to every executive who wants to maximize the wellness and productivity of their workforce.”

Read the Cision PR Newswire article: Natural Light is the Best Medicine for the Office

To read the Cornell study report, visit http://go.viewglass.com/daylight-workplace-study.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) may be seen as a key rating to assess the energy saving qualities of window films

According to the Convenience Group Inc, in a recent reporting on Myths about Window Film, the Dundas Edward Center in Toronto had a problem with solar heat gain prompting a number of tenants to complain about comfort.

“Our standard response was to say, “Keep your blinds closed,” says The Sorbara Group’s Emil Vertes, the property’s general manager. But solar heat gain continued to plague tendants of the 26-story 270,000 square-foot building, so an emergency conservation program was devised. Amon the initiaves was the idea of replacing the windows with double-pane, tinted glass – an option that would have involved a major capital investment. A more viable option, building managagement discovered, was to install window film.

“Of all the things we did, the window film gave us the biggest feedback. It was the thing tenants noticed the most,” recalls Vertes. He also noticed tenants were keeping their blinds open more often. “What’s the point of having a window if the blinds are always closed.”

Read the entire article here.

General consumer knowledge about window films is likely to advance as information about window films is widely available

“Window films are a very cost-effective retrofit solution for any building that has windows that could be upgraded to meet today’s building codes and energy standards,” said Darrell Smith, executive director of the International Window Film Association (IWFA). “While no one can truly predict trends, based on past experience we would expect window film to be a smart choice over replacement windows for reasons such as costs, energy savings, safety and security, UV protection and curb appeal,” he added. “From a budget standpoint, the winter months are the best time to have window film installed,” said Smith.

The benefits of window film include:

  1. Reducing heat gain through windows by as much as 80%
  2. Curb appeal, as window films are available in wide range of colors from crystal clear through very dark, reflective or non-reflective
  3. Payback as commercial window film applications may see a return on investment (ROI) in less than 3 years depending on film selection, weather location, and glass types
  4. UV radiation is cut by up to 99.9% to help reduce fading of furnishing and offer skin and eye protection from the sun’s UVA and UVB radiation
  5. More safety as security films may discourage burglars from breaking through a window and thick security films may reduce injury from flying glass in bomb blasts and other impacts

Tintmaster is proud to provide their clients access and installation of 3M window film.

As a family owned and operated business, Tintmaster prides themselves on professional installation, high-quality materials, and unparalleled customer service. They have been serving the Sacramento area since 1989 and have built a reputation for excellence. If you need automotiveresidential, or commercial window tinting, give the specialists at Tintmaster a call at 916-852-8468.

Window Tint Trends: 3M FASARA Glass Films

3M OFFERS POPULAR DECORATIVE FILM OPTIONS

We’re EXCITED because 3M released its newest Fasara Films Catalog! Tintmaster loves decorative film and when a new Fasara glass films catalog comes out, that means we have new creative finishes to enhance home, office, retail, and residential spaces through the Sacramento, CA area!

That’s how we’re able to give interior spaces that “WOW!!” factor that makes people take notice and sets your business apart. Sometimes it’s as simple as adding a simple or ornate detail to the mix. By offering 3M™ Glass Films and Finishes, Tintmaster can help you add that unique element with a palette of colors, patterns, and textures. Each are ideal for decoration and privacy in hotels, retail stores, offices, restaurants, and healthcare environments. The possibilities are endless and help you add privacy without sacrificing light.

Whether you want subtle gradation textures or patterns 3M™ FASARA™ Glass Films are available in over 50 design finishes and provide the advantages of cut, frosted, etched, textured and sandblasted glass at a fraction of the cost.

They offer subtle gradation of:

  • Texture
  • Pattern
  • Light
  • Design

They can be easily installed or removed by Tintmaster, a 3M™ Authorized Dealer, meaning that you’ll be able to make updates as trends change.

To view all the 3M™ FASARA Glass Films and Finishes options available, download 3M’s decorative film catalog.

Most Popular Styles of FASARA Glass Finish options

FROSTED GLASS

If you’re looking to add some privacy, perhaps on a bathroom window or back door, you may want to consider a frosted glass window films. These films obscure the view from outside, while still allowing in natural light that you wouldn’t get with blinds or curtains.

ETCHED GLASS

Custom-etched glass can make for beautiful front doors or entry windows, but it’s pricey. Fortunately, Tintmaster can replicate the look with window film. It’s easily installed and removed, and it’s much less costly than cut glass.

FABRIC FINISHES

Decorative window film is a great way to add a unique flair. 3M™ added dozens of new fabric finishes to its decorative film line. These on-trend looks – including linen, canvas and burlap – offer a unique way to customize any of the interior glass in your home or commercial space.

STAINED GLASS

Stained glass creates a beautiful effect, but it’s difficult and expensive to install. With 3M™ FASARA Glass Films, Tintmaster is able to mimic the look of stained glass. They can create custom-cut shapes and patterns to give you the finished look you want without the headaches. 3M offers nine different crystal and dichroic films as well.

FASARA Glass Film Offers Aesthetics and Flexibility

While these are some of the most popular 3M™ FASARA Glass Films and Finishes, there are plenty more to choose from and help us offer our clients a customized look that is decorative:

  • Aesthetics: Our decorative glass and window films transform plain glass, capturing the look of cut or texturized glass to an astonishing degree at a fraction of the price.
  • Flexible: FASARA™ Glass Finishes allow you to tailor the amount of privacy a space possesses.

New 3M™ Fasara™ Glass Films

3M™ Fasara™ is a family of decorative films for glass surfaces that transform an interior’s ambiance with finishes that have depth, subtly, modernity, energy, precision and more. Created in collaboration with leading designers from across the globe, the new, trend-setting collection will give you even more ways to create stunning visual effects on interior glass surfaces, as well as add privacy and control light.

As a family owned and operated business, Tintmaster prides themselves on professional installation, high-quality materials, and unparalleled customer service. They have been serving the Sacramento area since 1989 and have built a reputation for excellence. If you need automotiveresidential, or commercial window tinting, give the specialists at Tintmaster a call at 916-852-8468.

Automotive Window Tinting FAQ

We’ve had it!! The rumor mill is out of control and we’re ready to answer the questions that we hear from our clients most often … so, here you go — Automotive Window Tinting FAQ from The Master at Tintmaster!

Related Article: Auto Tinting: We Busted 5 Automotive Window Tinting Myths

Although the automotive industry has seen several trends come and go over the years, window tinting has consistently remained a sought-after service among people across the globe for many years and continues to do so to this day. However, despite the widespread popularity of automotive-based window tinting, many questions still surround the installation process thus spawning several misconceptions among potential consumers.

To remedy this, we have comprised a list of some of the most frequently asked questions and concerns regarding automotive window tinting, in an attempt to answer some of these questions and set the record straight!

Setting The Record Straight: Automotive Window Tinting FAQ

Q: What is Window Film?

A: Comprised of polyethylene terephthalate, window film is a thin polyester film material that is applied to interior surface of the glass window in your car. The reasons for doing so can vary from aesthetic purposes, to increased privacy, to reducing the amount of heat and UV rays allowed to enter your windows. Window film can come in a variety of tints, shades, and colors, to be altered to suit the intended needs and desires of the consumer.

Related Article: What’s the Best Type of Window Tinting for Your Car?

Q: How long does the installation process take?

A: The installation process typically requires two or three hours to complete in its entirety; however, this can vary depending on the type of vehicle in question, as well as the number of windows being tinted.

Q: Is the tinting film installed on the inside or the outside?

A: Although the film is initially hand-cut and trimmed on the outer side of the windows, the film is then installed INSIDE the car’s windows, thereby achieving the desired effect.

Q: Can I wash my car after having my windows tinted?

A: Yes, A car CAN be washed after having its windows tinted, so long as only the outside of window is cleaned and not the inside. Once the installation process is finished, we highly recommend that you wait at least one week prior to washing the inside of your windows, and that you use a foam based, ammonia-free cleaning product to do so. Additionally, it would probably be best to use a cloth hand towel to clean the newly tinted glass as harder materials may scratch or damage the film.

Q: Can I roll down my windows after having them tinted?

A: No! Not right away! Once the tinting film has been applied to the glass, you should wait a minimum of at least three to five days in order to allow the film’s adhesive to fully take to the glass.

Q: Why does window tint sometimes bubble or fade?

A: Unfortunately, this is the result of the film’s adhesive failing and while there a couple of factors that may cause this, it usually boils down to three things:

  1. Not giving the film enough time to settle before rolling the windows down
  2. Washing them too soon
  3. Using inadequate tinting materials.

The latter case is typically the result of DIY window tinting kits that are sometimes sold at automotive retail stores. Although DYI tinting kits are relatively inexpensive, the cumbersome tinting film that they use cannot deliver the same type of quality that a professional grade tinting can.

Related Article: Professional Tinting Services: Wanna Tint Your Car’s Windows? (DIY vs. Professional)

Q: How dark are windows legally allowed to be?

A: This is a question that may vary depending on what state you live in, as different states have deferent regulations regarding the percentage of tint that can be applied to specific windows. California State Law for instance, permits that while any percentage of tint can be used for the back-side windows and rear windows of a car, the driver and passenger windows cannot be any darker than 70%, and only non-reflective tint can be applied to the windshield.

Automotive Window Tinting FAQ: No Snake Oil Here!

As a family-owned and operated business, we at Tintmaster pride ourselves on establishing an open and honest relationship with all our customers and look forward to doing the same for you. While automotive window tinting is one of our most requested services, at Tintmaster we offer both commercial and residential services as well!

Related Article: 3 Reasons to Choose Tintmaster for Your Window Tinting

If you have any additional questions on automotive or any of our other services, please feel free to call or visit our site.

Nobody does it like the master, That’s TintMaster!

As a family owned and operated business, Tintmaster prides themselves on professional installation, high-quality materials, and unparalleled customer service. They have been serving the Sacramento area since 1989 and have built a reputation for excellence. If you need automotiveresidential, or commercial window tinting, give the specialists at Tintmaster a call at 916-852-8468.

Commercial Building Window Tint: A Wise Choice

Now that you’ve decided to get commercial building window tint for your business, there are 5 things we’d like you to consider.

As the owner of an office building, there are a number of things to take into consideration, and certainly many difficult decisions that you will have to make. However, the decision to invest in commercial building window tint has not been a hard choice for many business owners in the past, as the practical and aesthetic advantages that tinted windows offer are staggering to say the least!

Commercial Building Window Tint: 5 Things to Consider

If you have made the decision to have the windows of your office tinted, obviously we believe you have made a very good decision that will prove its worth for many years to come. That being said, there are several things to consider prior to the application process. Although tinting film is commonly thought to all be the same, in fact there are a number of differences in the various types of tinting, all of which can have a significant impact on the final product and how it functions.

Style & Contrast:

First and foremost, you need to explicitly decide what purpose that you want the tint to serve. Obviously having blinding rays of sunlight blasting through your office windows day after day can certainly cause major distractions and swelling temperatures. In this scenario, you would certainly want a type of tinting film designed to reduce glare and reject heat. On the other hand, perhaps you have a privacy concern and require tint that prevents those on the outside from seeing into your building, thus requiring a mirror styled tint for less-translucent effect.

Related Article: Window Tint: Is Your Business Cool (Or Glaring Hot)??

Coloration:

Commercial building window tint can come in a variety of different shades and colors, that can be used to give your establishment a desirable appearance. This can be an effective tool for marketing as a unique or distinct look can play a major role in helping your business stand out.

Related Article: Improve Customer Experience with Commercial Window Tint

Durability:

With multiple brands and types of tinting film, the thickness of the material will vary from one to the next. Additionally, thicker material may be more effective in blocking out heat, as well as retaining heat during the cooler months.

Cost:

The cost may vary depending on a number of factors including the type of film used as well as the number of major light sources your office has. If you are on a limited budget, then this is certainly something that you should take into consideration!

Installation Process:

In addition to cost, the installation process can also play a major role in making one’s decision, and while the process isn’t particularly long or painstaking, it does take a certain amount of time for the application to fully complete. However, keep in mind that this is an investment, and like any investment it requires time to reach its fruition.

Related Article: Reasons to Choose Professional Window Tinting

Additional Commercial Window Tinting Resources from TintMaster.

Think It Over

While commercial building window tint can serve as a major long-term investment for a commercial establishment, while providing numerous improvements, its up to you to decide just what sort of improvements that you want to make. At TintMaster, we ask you to consider this as well as other factors prior to making your decision.

Remember only you can decide what’s truly right for you and business, and when it comes time to make that important decision come see the Master at TintMaster!

As a family owned and operated business, Tintmaster prides themselves on professional installation, high-quality materials, and unparalleled customer service. They have been serving the Sacramento area since 1989 and have built a reputation for excellence. If you need automotiveresidential, or commercial window tinting, give the specialists at Tintmaster a call at 916-852-8468.

Sacramento Residential Window Tinting: Add Another Layer of Protection to Your Home

Your Home, Your Sanctuary

As many people would probably agree, your home is much more than just a house, your home is your own personal sanctuary! If this sounds unfamiliar, then a quick search via a search engine will inform you that a sanctuary is “a place of refuge, rest, or safety” which is something every home ideally should be. Providing you with a place of comfort and safety is the hallmark of any great home, and while your home will never ask for anything in return, there is something fantastic that you can do for your home that will better protect it, while allowing it to continue to provide sanctuary for both you and your family!

Residential Tinting: A Veil of Protection

Although basic window tinting is certainly not the newest service on the market today, modern residential window tinting has developed far beyond its initial conception and has now become a highly sought-after commodity amongst homeowners nationwide. To some people, the probable explanation for this rise in popularity would be the tinting film’s ability to shield the occupant’s eyes from the bright rays of sunlight that can be a bit of a nuisance on sunny days. While this is certainly true, as a growing number of homeowners are beginning to realize, are the benefits offered by window tinting and the protection it can offer your home in a number of different ways.

Home Security

As mentioned earlier, as a homeowner the safety and security of you, your loved ones, and your property are always your top priorities. Therefore, by obscuring the interior of you home from the outside, you are taking a proactive step in preventing your home from attracting the attention of any potential prowlers.  Additionally, tinted windows will not only allow you to keep your personal property hidden from public view but will also allow you to protect the privacy and sanctity of your family’s home from the unwelcome presence of gawkers or looky-loos.

Furniture/Interior Protection

Obviously furnishing a home isn’t exactly a cheap endeavor, and with that being the case when you purchase new furniture, it’s certainly your hope that it will last a long time. Unfortunately, this is not always the case as many folks have discovered bright UV rays streaming through panes of glass can be very hard on furniture, carpet, and cabinet, especially over an extended period of time. This often leads to these household amenities fading and discoloring, thus forcing the homeowner to replace them long before they normally would need to. However, by applying window tint to the major light sources in your home, you can avoid this issue and prolong your furniture’s lifespan, ultimately saving yourself a considerable amount of money.

Save Energy

While this may come as bit of a surprise at first, another (less obvious) way in which residential tinting can save you money is the fact that it is certain to make your home much more energy efficient. Although seldom acknowledged, tinting film has the unique ability to minimize heating and cooling loss. This allows your home to conserve heat during the wintertime, while simultaneously repelling heat during the summer! This valuable benefit offered by tinted windows is almost certain to not only cut down on energy costs, but also to make your home much more comfortable in those uncertain summer and winter months.

There’s No Place Like Home: There’s No Place Like Tintmaster!

At Tintmaster, our company’s name is much more than just a moniker, as for the past twenty years Tintmaster has been providing our loyal customers with premium quality tinting services and continue doing so today. As true masters of their craft, our technicians are all experienced professionals who take great pride in the quality of their work and are ready and willing to oblige when it comes to providing your sanctuary with that extra “Veil of Protection” that it needs!

Your home is a special place, and when it comes to providing the right kind of protection for a special place, you want somebody special to do the job!

You want the Master, so call Tintmaster!

As a family owned and operated business, Tintmaster prides themselves on professional installation, high-quality materials, and unparalleled customer service. They have been serving the Sacramento area since 1989 and have built a reputation for excellence. If you need automotiveresidential, or commercial window tinting, give the specialists at Tintmaster a call at 916-852-8468.

Commercial Tinting Film: Six Advantages for Your Business

More Than an Office!

Owning your own building or office space is both a lucrative and rewarding endeavor that gives you the freedom to select who you wish to surround yourself with and create an environment that is both positive and productive. However, as it’s been said before, “With great power comes great responsibility” and when owning your own office, this phrase certainly rings true! Obviously keeping your tenants happy is a major concern and while there’s only so much you can control; a safe comfortable environment is something you can provide!

Commercial Tinting Film   

As surely, you’ve heard, window tinting is the practice of applying tinting film to all the major windows or sources of natural light within a building or residence, with the purpose of reducing the amount of sunlight allowed to enter the dwelling.  While protection from excess sunlight is an obvious reason for the application of tinting film, there are multiple benefits offered by commercial tinting film; many of which can be highly beneficial for both the tenants of the building as well as the actual building itself.

Six Advantages of Window Tint

  1. Comfortable Climate: As mentioned previously, if you have hot, blinding rays of sunlight beaming down on you throughout the day, you are almost certain to be miserable! Fortunately, window tinting can resolve this as tinting film both rejects the sun’s heat and humidity from entering through your windows, as well as significantly reducing the glare caused by excessive natural light. Conversely, the weather resistant film material also provides additional insulation for your building, during those cold winter months. Read more here about the advantages of making your work zone comfortable.
  2. Increased Security: As much as we may love our beautiful city of Sacramento, let’s be honest here; break ins happen all the time! Fortunately, by applying commercial tinting film to your building’s windows, the glass will become shatter resistant, and thereby much harder to penetrate. However, keep in mind that while the window may no longer shatter, the glass can still be cracked or broken upon significant impact, thus intruders can sill break in if they are determined enough.
  3. Improved Safety: Safety is very important and certainly your tenants always want to feel as though they are in a safe environment. Therefore, the fact that tinting film strengthens and reinforces glass is certain to provide the staff with a bit of relief as they will indeed be much safer from any outside hazards such as accidents, intruders, or even natural disasters.
  4. Save Energy: Obviously utility bills can be a bit pricey at times, and with a consistent influx of hot or cold air seeping through your windows on a daily basis, these costs are almost guaranteed to skyrocket! This can be reduced by window tinting; however, as by eliminating hot or cold air from entering the building, the occupants may keep their work space at a comfortable temperature without having to contend with outside interference. This in turn, will significantly reduce the overall amount of energy used, thereby cutting down on energy costs regardless of the outside climate, and assuredly save you money!
  5. Added Privacy: While privacy might not seem like a major concern for an office, the additional veil of privacy may enable the office staff to conduct business without any outside distractions or interruptions, thus encouraging a more productive atmosphere.
  6. Alter Interior Lighting: By adjusting the light entering your building, you will not only make better use of its natural light, you will also be able to direct the sunlight away from sensitive furnishings or equipment. When furniture and appliances are repeatedly exposed to the sun’s harsh UV rays over a period of time, the materials may sustain damage or begin to fade and become discolored. Obviously replacing such items is likely to be time consuming and of course costly, by simply redirecting your light sources through tinting film you can avoid such a scenario.

Read more here about the 5 top reasons businesses choose commercial window tint.

Call the Master!

Here at Tintmaster, our technicians pride themselves on their ability to provide our customers with the highest quality window tinting possible. Whether it be commercial, residential, or automotive, at Tintmaster we are ready and willing to oblige when it comes to all your tinting needs.

If you are interested in commercial window tinting or have any questions on the matter don’t call just anyone!

Call the Master at TintMaster!

As a family owned and operated business, Tintmaster prides themselves on professional installation, high-quality materials, and unparalleled customer service. They have been serving the Sacramento area since 1989 and have built a reputation for excellence. If you need automotiveresidential, or commercial window tinting, give the specialists at Tintmaster a call at 916-852-8468.