Commercial Window Tint FAQ

Your local window tint experts at Jet Black Tint have installed commercial window tints on businesses and schools all over the Bay Area and Katy, Texas, and we get lots of questions from business owners looking to invest in energy savings. Commercial window tint is a much cheaper, and just as effective option for reducing energy costs and upgrading commercial business curb appeal. In today’s post, we’ll review a few of the most common questions customers ask.

What are the benefits of commercial window tint?

Large, floor-to-ceiling windows are warm and welcoming for storefronts and office buildings alike for the views and natural sunlight. However, it is well known that glass windows are notorious energy wasters and offer little to no solar protection. Commercial window tint blocks nearly 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays and reduces solar heat by up to 78%. Arguably, the biggest advantage of commercial window tint is incredible energy savings.

Other benefits of commercial window film also include:

  • Reduce glare and eyestrain to increase comfort for building occupants 
  • Protects furniture and decor from sun fading 
  • Prevents break-ins and weather damage with increased glass durability
  • Extends the life of commercial HVAC equipment 
  • Looks great and offers customizable aesthetics

How much do window films cost?

At Jet Black Tint, we carry commercial films for every application and every budget. Regardless of the upfront cost of commercial window film installation, it’s important to also consider and evaluate the long-term cost savings by installing tint. For most businesses, the energy cost saving and enhanced curb appeal and privacy that boosts sales and productivity, greatly offset the cost of tint, and in most cases, it pays for itself within a year!

Is applying window film safe for my windows? 

The installation of commercial window film is safe for glass and will not cause any harm or damage to windows or window seals. Because the film is applied on top of the glass, it can be removed if needed.

Is commercial window tint dark like car tint film?

The short answer is: it can be, but not necessarily. The shading level of commercial window tint is completely customizable. Most folks who install window tint on their cars want the darker shades for aesthetic reasons, as do some commercial building owners — and, that’s an option. However, there are also privacy options such as window tint that appears transparent from the inside but shaded or mirrored from the outside, and decorative window film products like etched glass for added style, or glare-reducing clear film for minimal shading.

Do security films prevent the glass from breaking?

Kind of. Safety security film is incredibly high-tensile, designed to add durability and impact resistance to glass to reduce the likelihood of breakage. Its primary function, however, is to hold broken glass together and prevent shattering. Broken glass that is held in place by the film slows entry into the building and prevents injury caused by glass shards. 

Will films change the appearance of my windows or cause excessive reflections?

Commercial window tint can change the appearance of your business or it can be virtually undetectable, depending on the type of window tint film we apply. For businesses looking to increase visibility and reduce reflections, some films are actually less reflective than ordinary window glass. If you’d like to increase privacy and decrease visibility, we offer mirrored or reflective films as well.

Will commercial window tint installation affect my building’s energy bill?

Yes, absolutely. A typical business can save up to 50% in energy costs. The actual amount of total savings will depend on the type of window tint installed and the general construction of the building. Climate, sun exposure, existing energy costs, and the efficiency of air conditioning and heating systems are also factors to be considered regarding energy savings. Commercial window tint film reduces solar energy and effectively filters out UV rays and solar heat to help keep temperatures more consistent, reducing the reliance on your HVAC system.

What type of return on investment will energy savings provide?

Adding commercial window tint film offers similar energy savings as upgrading to energy-efficient windows, at about 5-10% of the cost. Many commercial tint projects produce a simple payback in less than three years, which is equivalent to a 33% return on investment!

How are commercial window films installed?

The first step is a professional consultation to evaluate your needs and preferences. Once you’ve decided which film we will install, we’ll protect the installation areas by covering furniture that can’t be moved and cleaning the interior of the windows where the film is to be placed. The film is applied using a mild water-based chemical solution. In most cases, business can carry on as usual during the installation process, and in some cases, there may be minor disruption in areas where installation is taking place. 

Will window film installation disrupt normal business?

Generally, no. Installation can be performed during normal business hours with minimal interruption to normal flow. Special arrangements can be made for evening and weekend installations if there are concerns. The installation process does require four to five feet of clear space in front of the window, so in some cases, this may limit business as normal during installation.

How long will commercial window films last?

Commercial window tint has an average lifespan of more than 10 years with normal use. At Jet Black Tint, we partner with Solar Gard® who offers 3-12 year limited product warranties, and we offer a limited lifetime craftsmanship warranty. 

Don’t see your question listed here? You can visit our commercial tint page online to learn more or simply contact any Jet Black Tint location to speak to one of our knowledgeable commercial tint technicians. If you’re a business owner in the Northern California or Katy, Texas and you’re interested in commercial window tint installation or replacement, connect with our tint experts for your custom quote and to schedule your service. We look forward to speaking with you soon!