The sunny, temperate climate of Kansas City is great for outdoor living. But our long summers and solar exposures can lead to high energy bills, furnishings faded by UV rays, and uncomfortable indoor temperatures. Low-emissivity (low-e) window films provide Kansas City home and business owners with an energy-efficient solution.v
We serve the greater Kansas City metro, including neighborhoods like Overland Park, Leawood, River Market, Brookside, and Westport. In this blog, weāll explore what low-e window films are, how they work, and the many benefits of installing them on your property. Read on to learn how low-e window tints can help control your energy costs and create a more comfortable indoor environment.
The Basics of Low-E Window Film
Low-e window films are thin polyester sheets coated with a microscopically thin layer of a specialized coating. This low emissivity (low-e) coating allows the film to reflect infrared heat from the sun, while allowing visible light to pass through. Low-e films block UV rays and reduce glare as well.
How does low-e window film work?
Low-e window tints act as selective radiation filters. The low-e coating reflects the heat-carrying infrared portion of sunlight, while allowing visible light to pass through. It controls the transfer of solar heat gain, helping regulate a building’s interior temperature.
Types of low-e window film
Low-e films come in tinted or clear varieties. Tinted films work well for glare reduction and privacy, while clear films maintain views. Films also vary by infrared rejection rate, application type (reflective or non-reflective), and durability. We carry low-e options for both residential and commercial settings.
Benefits of Low-E Window Film in Kansas City
Installing low-e window tint provides many advantages for Kansas City area homes and businesses:
2. Energy Efficiency
Low-e films dramatically reduce solar heat gain, decreasing the load on your HVAC system. This saves on cooling costs in summer. In winter, low-e films provide insulation, reducing heat loss through windows and lowering your heating bills. High performance low-e films can cut energy costs by blocking infrared light.
Energy savings may also help properties qualify for certification programs like LEED. Low-e films are a simple upgrade that improves efficiency and sustainability.
2. UV Protection
Low-e window films reject up to 99% of ultraviolet rays from entering your home or office. Blocking UV light helps protect furnishings, flooring, artwork and other interior finishes from sun damage and fading. Reducing UV exposure also provides health benefits for building occupants.
3. Comfort and Climate Control
By regulating heat gain and loss, low-e window tints help maintain comfortable indoor temps year-round. Films also reduce hot and cold spots near windows. This localized climate control means fewer drafty areas or stifling zones. Low-e films let in natural light without the heat and glare of direct sunlight.
Cost Savings and Return on Investment
Low-e window films involve an upfront purchase and installation cost. But the long-term savings on energy bills provide a quick payback. Films come with a lifetime warranty. Properties with low-e window tints often see savings of 15-30% or more on annual energy costs. Many utility companies and local governments offer rebates to help offset the initial cost as well.
Installation and Maintenance
Professionally installing low-e window film is crucial for proper performance and appearance. Our expert staff precisely cut and apply films using a process that eliminates bubbles and wrinkles. Proper prep, tools, techniques, and adhesives are needed to achieve an optimal bond with the glass. DIY films often underperform or peel.
Low-e window tints require little maintenance once installed by professionals. We recommend occasional window washing with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pressure washing. Contact us if any edge lifting occurs.
Choosing Low-E Window Film in Kansas City
Several factors go into selecting the right low-e film in KC’s climate:
Climate Considerations
Kansas City experiences hot, humid summers and cold winters. South- and west-facing windows bear the brunt of solar exposure. Low-E films that both reject infrared heat and control radiant heat are ideal for our setting.
Aesthetic Preferences
Tinted low-e films provide more privacy, while clear films maintain visibility and natural lighting. Consider the views and privacy needs of each room when making your selection.
Local Regulations
Some neighborhood HOAs prohibit reflective films or limit visible light transmission levels. We stay up to date on codes and supply only code-compliant low-e window films.
FAQs about Low-E Window Film
Some common questions we receive:
Does low-e film reduce visibility or natural light?
Clear low-e films maintain visibility while still blocking heat and UV rays. Lightly tinted films transmit ample light as well. Darker tints do reduce visibility, but improved aesthetics and insulation may outweigh this.
Will low-e films peel or bubble?
Quality low-e films, properly installed, should not peel or bubble. Avoid cheap DIY films prone to failure. Our expert installation ensures long-lasting adhesion.
Can you install low-e films on dual pane windows?
We install films on single, double, even triple pane glass. Low-e films work great as an upgrade for older windows. Newer dual-pane windows benefit from films too.
Enhance Comfort, Efficiency & More with Low-E Window Film in Kansas City
Low-e window films offer an affordable way to increase your property’s performance and comfort. By regulating solar heat gain, low-e tints create efficiency upgrades that quickly pay for themselves in energy savings and UV damage prevention. And they provide these functional benefits while maintaining the aesthetics of your home.
We serve all of Kansas City’s neighborhoods, from Overland Park to River Market. Contact Window Film Kansas City today for a free estimate on upgrading your windows with low-e films specially selected for your space. Our solutions keep interiors cool in summer, cozy in winter, and energy-efficient year round. Discover how our high performance films can benefit your property.
