Window tinting isn’t only for cars—learn what it can do for your home too
Window tinting can help save on energy costs and increase privacy
The average homeowner pays $590 for home window tinting
Smart glass, which is controlled via a mobile app, is the most expensive
Window tinting can be permanent or temporary
The three main types of window film are solar, security, and decorative
Though cars might come to mind when you think about tinted windows, you can tint your home windows, too. It’s actually not that different depending on the type of film you choose.
In the most basic function, home window tinting blocks out sunlight, but there’s nothing opaque about its value. Window treatments can reduce your energy costs, add style, reduce glare, and increase your property value. Here’s what you need to know.
Unlike the stained glass you might find in a cathedral window, home window tinting doesn’t typically happen during the glass manufacturing process. It’s actually a film that’s applied to glass panes after they’re made. This film typically comes in a sheet, but you can also find spray tint for house windows.
Window tint film is available in varying darkness, opacities, colors, and designs. It can either be permanent, semi-permanent, or temporary, which makes it a great option for renters and homeowners alike.
The average homeowner pays $590 for home window tinting. It doesn’t have to be an expensive project. The film itself can cost as little as $2 per square foot for something like a basic 3M window film. On the high end, you might find yourself paying upwards of $100 per square foot for something like smart glass.
If you choose to have window tinting professionally installed, labor will run you an additional $5 to $10 per square foot.
Window tint comes in all kinds of colors, designs, and opacities. There are three main types, and each one suits a different need—from providing security to increasing your home’s energy efficiency.
This is the thickest type of film meant to protect against break-ins, accidents, and natural disasters that may damage windows (think: hurricanes, tropical storms, or anything with high winds that might kick up a rock).
In effect, they make your house windows shatterproof and a little more resilient. They can also obscure what’s inside, enhancing the privacy of your home.
This type of film is medium thickness and designed to absorb and/or reflect UV rays. It helps control indoor temperature, so you’re not boiling in your conservatory during the summer like it’s a greenhouse.
Since solar window film improves energy efficiency, it also decreases your energy costs (by as much as 40%, according to some estimates). It’s a more affordable alternative to installing low-E glass.
This is the thinnest option and usually the most temporary. Decorative window tints may add privacy or minimally control heat, but their main function is style. You can find decorative tints in different colors and patterns. Some decorative tints will even filter natural light to create rainbows on your walls.
Smart glass is a type of window film that’s wired into your electricity and controlled through a mobile app. When it’s off, your window is clear. When it’s on, your window looks tinted. This type of technology can control all kinds of natural light, from visible glare to infrared and UV rays. Since it’s adjustable, it suits every lighting situation—but it’s a more expensive option.
Not every type of film works with every type of window, and in some cases, window tint can void your warranty (so definitely read the fine print). A lot of this has to do with heat absorption. Solar films can put your window under lots of thermal stress, which can make them crack.
While tint works on most common window types, use extreme caution applying solar tint to:
Clear glass that’s thicker than three-eighth inches
Single pane glass larger than 100 sq. ft.
Double pane glass larger than 40 sq. ft.
Tinted glass thicker than one-fourth inches
Triple pane glass
Laminated glass window
Window frames made of concrete, solid aluminum, or solid steel
Reflective wired, textured, or patterned glass
Laminated glass windows
Glass with hardened sealant or glazing
Chipped, damaged, or cracked glass
Window tinting isn’t a solution for everyone, but many homeowners appreciate the benefits (even if it’s just knowing that your neighbor won’t be able to see you binging TV on your couch).
If installed correctly, window tinting can save you money on your energy bills by insulating your windows. During the summer months, tinted windows can keep your indoors naturally cooler, reducing the need to blast the AC. The same can go for colder months when window tinting can help keep heat inside.
You may want to tint your windows to keep nosy neighbors from watching you on your couch. Tinting windows can obscure sight and make it difficult to see from the outside.
Window tinting can actually protect your glass from shattering and could provide added security during natural disasters or potential break ins.
Who doesn’t hate a big glare on your TV when trying to watch your favorite show? Window tinting is a great alternative to shades and blinds, which can decrease the glare without leaving you in a darkened room.
Window tinting can potentially add value to your home and increase the overall curb appeal, especially when paired with other energy-efficient upgrades like new windows and doors.
Tinting windows isn’t always the best option. Keep these cons in mind when shopping around.
If you’re adding tinting to recently installed windows, carefully read the manufacturer’s manual to see if they are compatible with tinting. Because of the additional heat window, tinting applies to the glass, it could crack under pressure.
If you ever change your mind about window tinting, you may need to hire a professional to remove it or replace the window altogether.
Window tinting can’t be applied to all types of windows. Basic flat glass or insulated glass are the best two options, but it doesn’t hurt to check with a pro first.
Outside of temporary window tinting, most options will require a professional to install them. This ensures proper coverage, window compatibility, and optimal efficiency.
You’ll need to budget extra for your window replacement costs if you want to add window tinting, especially for higher-end options like smart glass.
Older windows that lack energy efficiency are the best candidates for window tinting, but this upgrade can help all kinds of homeowners—including those who just want to add some pizazz and privacy to their windows.
You might even be able to save costs by doing a DIY job. This project can be about as difficult as applying wallpaper, so if you’re not very handy, a local window tinting service might be your best bet.
