Blog – Page 23

DIY Window Film? 10 Reasons to Absolutely Make You Stop

November 29, 2016 by Carol S 1 Comment

You’ve had the idea of doing your own window film for some time. After all, people on YouTube make it look easy! But what could happen if you do? What could possibly go wrong? Here are just a few things that could end up ruining your day!

You’ll Have to Pay Someone to Fix it

We often visit clients who have tried to do their own window film, and we spend hours undoing what they’ve done because they watched a YouTube video and thought they could do it themselves. Don’t be that guy! Or that gal, either.

It Won’t Look as Good

Unless you have years in the field, working as an installer, there’s going to be a crimp in there somewhere. Or bubbles. The best you can hope for is “just ok.” We’ve been installing window film for quite some time, so we’ve made all the mistakes for you. Plus, you or your friend may not be using 3M Window film–so it won’t last as long.

Your Second Cousin is Very Talented

Yes, he’s a great plumber, but he’s not such a great window film installer. But you didn’t want to hurt his feelings when he volunteered to do it in exchange for a steak dinner. You figured that you love steak! So you thought it would be a win-win. What if it’s a lose-lose, though? What if you have to hide every time he’s in the neighborhood and pretend not to be home?

bubble tintp photo — Photo by Luke Hayfield Photography

There Will Be Bubbles

Bubbles are great in your champagne. But not so great in your window film. Every time you look through that window, you’ll see the bubbles and not the beautiful view. Although there are ways to remove bubbles, do you really want to explain to your neighbors what you’re doing with safety pins, credit cards, and hair dryers? Those are some of the tools that people have used to get the bubbles out!

There Will be Debris, Pet Hair, or Fingerprints

Do you know how to remove these, or what to look for if you see them? What if you have all three: debris, pet hair, and fingerprints? Any one of these can distract you from your beautiful view, and remind you of a job that’s not all the way finished.

You’ll Have to Buy Tools

Yes, you love having so many tools, but what if you’re only going to use them once? Where will you store them? How will you keep them clean in case you ever use them again? 3M has tools as well as window film, but a dealer will already have both.

You Don’t Enjoy Doing Windows

And by “doing windows,” we mean getting those windows squeaky clean! If that’s something you don’t enjoy, you could easily outsource to someone who does love doing windows. Doing windows is one DIY project that you can do yourself, however! We like this article from This Old House: How to Cean Windows Like a Pro.

Using the Wrong Chemicals

Maybe some rubbing alcohol and an old sock works well to clean other things in your home or office, but not if you’re going to install window film. And by all means, never use a live sheep! The sheep will get very angry and you’ll have little bits of sheep fur on your window. It’s not a good look.

Your Squeegee Isn’t Pro

Squeegees are one of those tools of the trade that needs to be perfect, without nicks and just the right length. If you got yours at Speedy Mart, it probably won’t be the best. By the way, if you want to know some reasons to get window film, here are a few. Some people even customize their squeegees to their windows. Are you willing to do that?

Who Can You Call if Your Install Goes South?

There is no Ghostbusters for window film installers! But if you hire a pro, you can call them and have them fix any mistakes they may have made. So give us a call. Please. We work all over the San Francisco Bay Area, including Santa Clara, San Jose, and the peninsula. We’d love to talk to you about some window film that’s perfect for your home or business!

Afraid of the Sun? You Should Be!

November 14, 2016 by Carol S Leave a Comment

Recently, during a Twitter chat, a few of us were talking about good blog posts, and Floors to Your Home, an Indianapolis-based Flooring specialist, suggested discussing window film and how it prevents premature aging. So here you go!

A1: Or, for us skincare nerds, how window film prevents premature aging. #constchat

— Floors To Your Home (@FTYHFlooring) October 13, 2016

Sunlight, Your Skin and UV Rays

Sunlight is made up of harmful UVA and UVB that can cause premature aging as well as more serious conditions. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation “UV radiation is considered the main cause of non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC), including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). These cancers strike more than a million and more than 250,000 Americans, respectively, each year.”

Window Film Blocks Harmful UV Rays

According to 3M™ “By reducing the amount of heat gained through transmission of sunlight, 3M™ Window Films let in the natural light you love while rejecting heat and UV rays.” And 3M Window Film blocks up to 99% of harmful UV rays–the rays that cause skin damage and premature aging. So imagine if you will having sunblock that encases all your windows and protects your skin against premature aging. It’s like that.

Want Younger-Looking Skin?

Stop thinking of window film as a luxury, and instead allocate some money to your health care budget. Window film takes the worry out of blocking UV rays, and it can be used on your home, your business, or your car. Skin damage is cumulative, so a little prevention goes a long way towards keeping your skin healthy. According to WebMD:

“Sun exposure causes most of the skin changes that we think of as a normal part of aging. Over time, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light damages the fibers in the skin called elastin.”

Elastin Keeps Skin Elastic

Without elastin, the skin can’t “bounce back” like it does with children. So keeping out of the sun, or protecting your windows with window film, help to prevent the damage from UV rays that cause the loss of elastin to your skin.

Every Little Bit Helps

While window film isn’t your entire skin care strategy, it certainly helps. Nobody wants to have to protect their skin indoors, but that’s exactly what you need to do if you have windows!

Got Questions?

Call our office in Santa Clara, California! We can help.

When New-School Technology Meets Old-World Service? Magic!

November 5, 2016 by Carol S 1 Comment

Professional marketers are always going on about differentiators. “What makes you different?” they’ll ask. “No, really, what makes you different?” Well, what really makes us different is service. How so? Read on!

Service with a Smile

We really do take it the extra mile in terms of service. On the very rare occasion that a customer is only 99% satisfied, we want to go the extra 1% to make it 100%. And don’t tell us about 110%! There’s only 100%! Sometimes that means working extra time or taking a loss on a product ourselves.

Cheerful Demeanor

We like to have a good time, and by “have a good time,” we mean we love our work! We really will do what we have to so that your window film looks wonderful. We don’t want you to have bubbles or purple film on your building! No way! By the way, here are some things you need to know about window film.

Only the Best for Our Clients

We don’t like to brag, but we only use the highest-rated window film from 3M™. 3M™ window film has recently had their 50th anniversary, and you don’t get to be in business for 50 years without a great product! When you start with such a great product, there is much less to do in terms of customer service, since everyone already knows, likes, and trusts 3M™ window film.

What Defines the “Best”?

Of course there’s a range of what great customer service means. To some, it means having the “customer is always right” mentality. To others it means going out of your way to make someone happy. There’s a great discussion of good customer service over on the SalesForce blog.

Focus on Like and Trust

We are always striving to make things better for our customers because we want them to like and trust us. So we take what you say seriously and incorporate your suggestions into our way of doing business.

Listening Skills

We learn a lot from our customers, and often what they say surprises us! We don’t know what questions they’ll have before we start listening, and that’s part of the fun!

What About You?

What customer service skills do you like to see? We’d love to talk to you! Leave us a comment!

The Genuine Truth about Window Film You Need to Know

September 29, 2016 by Carol S 2 Comments

There might be some things you don’t know about window film, but you probably know more than you think you know. Using window film makes you more likely to focus on health in other areas of your life. Window film has great value and affordability when you look at what it does for your furnishings and how it protects your skin’s health, too.

Without Drapes, Fewer Places for Dust to Collect

If you suffer from allergies, one thing you don’t need more of is drapes! With window film, you can just give it a quick swipe, rather than have to put everything in the washer (while you’re drugged up on anti-allergy meds and sneezing)! Makes for a much better experience during fall as well as spring, when allergies go crazy.

Focus on Health

People who are healthier put their focus on protecting their families and loved ones. Does that sound like you? Then why not make the investment in your health with window film? For instance, you don’t have to wear sunglasses inside, squint because of glare, or worry that your skin is being damaged. Window film protects your skin: it’s like having an extra thick layer of sunscreen on your house.

Protect Your Furnishings

Window film protects your valuable floors, furnishings, and you! And we particularly like 3M’s Thinsulate window film, as shown in the video.

Affordability and Value

Do you have a favorite outfit that you wear over and over? That outfit might have cost you a bit more than most, but if you think about the number of times you wear it, you come to the issue of value. Window film is the same way: you pay for it once, but you get back so much in terms of health, protection, and peace of mind. And that is priceless!

Give Us a Call!

We’d love to talk to you about the myriad ways you can use window film on your home or business. We’d love to help you find the perfect kind of window film. We are located in Santa Clara, but provide service up and down the San Francisco peninsula as well.

3M’s Sun Control Window Film: Spotlight on Protection You Need to See

September 13, 2016 by Carol S 1 Comment

3M Sun Control Window Film: Spotlight on Protection You Need to See

Did you fall in love with some big, beautiful windows when you moved into your new home or office? Then you probably know what it’s like to see the damage that sun can do to your flooring and furnishings! If you’ve ever peeled back a rug and seen a discolored floor underneath, you know what I mean!

How Do You Protect Your Floor?

Of course, you could always add curtains to your windows. There are some excellent ones that block out all the light, and also make a quieter space for you. But you might not be such a big fan of the dark, man-cave look.

Louvered shades or blinds are another option.

3M™ Sun Control Window Film

We love window film. We cannot lie. Not only will 3M™ Sun Control Window Film block out harmful UV radiation that damages your furnishings, and your skin, you’ll be lowering your heating bill at the same time! That’s a no-brainer in our opinion!

Carpet Stays Bright and Cheery

Your carpet will thank you for using window film. And not just your carpet, but your couch, and that beautiful table that you shipped from that one Hawaiian vacation. Now you won’t have to twirl it around every other week to keep the fading even on both sides.

hardwood floor photo — Photo by Rubber Dragon

Hardwood Floors Stay the Same Color

If you’ve ever seen the damage UV light can do to flooring, it can be quite dramatic. As Tadas Sadunas explains in this wonderful hardwood floor blog, some types of wood darken, some get bleached, just like the different types of skin. Yes, there are finishes that give your floor some UV protection, but window film is much easier.

Wearing Sunglasses Indoors?

Do you know someone like this? The sun is so bright that everyone has to wear sunglasses indoors! And that’s not right! You should feel comfortable indoors–as well as safe. Wearing sunglasses indoors is just so…silly! Not that we’re anti-silly, but you should be able to control the silly. And with window film you can!

UV Damage is Cumulative

We don’t want to harp on it, but ultraviolet light damages your skin and causes photoaging. So to keep your furnishings and your skin safe, you need to protect yourself from the sun’s ultraviolet rays, which by the way can travel through windows and damage everything in sight.

window film photo — Photo by Sigma.DP2.Kiss.X3

Let Us Explain Your Options!

We’re in the San Francisco Bay Area, and service homes and businesses up and down the peninsula, in the South Bay, as well as San Francisco. So if you’re considering window film, give us a call so we can explain your options!

Want to Control the Sun? Valuable Tips Actually Make You Healthier

August 27, 2016 by Carol S Leave a Comment

You’ve heard it again and again: stay out of the sun during peak hours (10-4:00 pm), use sunscreen, and wear a big hat! But what else can you do to put your health back in your hands? Read on to see!

sunlight photo

First Tip: Get Window Film!

During the hottest months in particular, Window film is like sunscreen for your house, car, or office. You might not always remember to use sunscreen, and with window film you won’t have to! So for heaven’s sake, use window film. Like brushing your teeth, window film is an investment in your future self’s health. And your future self will thank you!

Window film is good for your car, as well as your home, or business. So if you spend a lot of time in any one of these places, start with window film there.

Second Tip: Monthly Self-Exam

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, doing a monthly self-exam helps to catch early stages of skin cancer. Examine your nose, ears, and places that get lots of sun in particular. Check behind your knees, your back, and your face. If you can’t see all those places yourself with mirrors, have an “exam buddy” help you out!

Step-by-Step Skin Cancer Exam from the Skin Cancer Foundation

You could also have your general practitioner give you a look over. A dermatologist will probably give you the most thorough exam. If you have skin cancer in your family, you might want to do a self-exam and have a doctor examine you as well!

Third Tip: Protect Your Left Side

Anyone who drives is more prone to getting sun exposure from the left side (unless you drive on the other side of the road!). Keep a hat, wraparound sunglasses and sunscreen in your car, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. You’ve heard of tennis elbow, but what about driver’s face? Remember the truck driver with damage to one side of his face? That’s what the sun’s UVA rays can do coming through your car’s windows. Those bad rays can also penetrate clouds, in case you were thinking of rolling down your windows on a cloudy day!

In the summertime, you might be more likely to roll down your windows or ride on a motorcycle, or have the top down on a convertible. In that case, all of your sides need to be protected–not just your left side.

golf photo — Photo by Krzysztof Urbanowicz

Fourth Tip: Take Extra Precautions if You Play Golf

That’s right: golfers have more exposure to the sun than athletes who play other sports. But you can choose earlier or later tee times, and of course wear a hat, sunglasses, and a thick layer of sunscreen. If your skin is lighter, be extra careful, although anyone can suffer from skin damage. There are now specialty sun screens just for golfers, hats with extra air flow, and fabrics that have SPF protection built in. See the video on the PGA Show’s link for specifics.

Fifth Tip: Ask An Expert

Who would know how to stay cool better than Bigfoot? After all, he’s covered with fur, which he doesn’t shave even when it’s scalding hot. And if you try to mention global warming, he’s likely to throw a half-empty beer can at you!! Oh, you could also ask someone at 3M, since it’s the 50th Anniversary of Window Film.

Sixth Tip: Call Us for the Best Window Film!

We’re in the San Francisco South Bay, but travel throughout the Bay Area, up and down the peninsula, Campbell, Saratoga, Palo Alto, and San Mateo. As well as Sunnyvale, Brisbane, and the places in between!

How to Choose a Window Film Installer: 5 Best Ways

July 14, 2016 by Carol S 1 Comment

You’ve begun experiencing global warming and much hotter summers, and you’re thinking “now is the time!” What time is that? Why, time to get some window film, of course! How do you cut through all the baloney out there, and find someone trustworthy? Here are some ideas.

Check Them out on Social Media

Are they posting anywhere, and if they are, are they staying on message? Do you like what you’re seeing? Do they seem reliable? Are their posts filled with spelling errors, or do they seem to know how to write and share good content? Also, do they seem honest and reliable? By the way, here are some brands doing an amazing job on social media.

Stalk Their Blog

You’re doing that right now, aren’t you? See what the company you’re considering is writing about on their blog Do you agree with the posts you’re reading? Skim through a few to get a sense of what the company does. For window film companies, they may be discussing their own jobs, what you can do with window film in commercial situations, or the benefits of window film.

ferrari dealer photo — Photo by Michel Curi

Ask Whether They Service Your Area

Some installers are willing to travel a bit outside their regular area. If you like someone, give them a call and ask. They might even know someone in your area, since the window film arena is a fairly small world. We work in the San Francisco Bay Area, from San Jose and Santa Clara, up to San Francisco. We’ve done both small and large jobs all up and down the peninsula.

talk shop photo — Photo by humanstatuebodyart

Check the Numbers

You can do your own research into the type of window film you might like. We highly recommend 3M window films, and you can get numbers on automotive, residential, or commercial window films on the site. Our blog has lots of ideas for new films you might not have considered. For instance, we have stripes, dots, and patterns.

Ask for References

There may be references on the company website already. For instance, we installed window film for the Exploratorium in San Francisco. If you’re familiar with the Exploratorium, they’re a fantastic place on San Francisco’s Embarcadero. When they moved, they needed window film in their new location.

professional conference photo — Photo by tec_estromberg

Make Sure They Carry Reputable Brands

In window film, 3M is one of the top brands, if not THE top brand. Does the company you’re looking at carry a reliable brand? Not all window film is created equally–some will turn purple and bubble very quickly. Ask what brand or brands your prospective window film installer uses.

patagonia store photo — Photo by Andrew-Hyde

Got Questions?

We’d be happy to talk to you! If you’re considering window film, give us a call!

Unlocking the Hidden Secrets of Window Film: What You Need to Know Now

June 15, 2016 by Window Works 1 Comment

Many people have heard about window film, but few know about the technology that goes into the film itself, and all the things that window film can achieve for you. First, window film is extremely thin, as thin as a Post-It(R) note. So it isn’t likely to interfere with cleaning your windows.

What Is Window Film?

Window film is a thin film that is installed to the interior of glass surfaces in cars, homes, and buildings. It is available in different grades, colors, and thickness. Here are some examples:

How Does Window Film Work?

Here’s a video that shows you exactly how window film rejects harmful light:

Heat Rejection

Basically, window film causes harmful ultraviolet radiation to bounce off windows to keep you, your family, and your possessions safe. Window film keeps your rugs, furniture, and flooring from fading, and gives you peace of mind.

Visible Light Transmission

Visible Light Transmission is the percentage of visible light that passes directly through filmed glass: the higher the number, the lighter the film.

Total Solar Energy Rejected

Total Solar Energy Rejected is the percentage of total solar energy rejected by window film. The higher this value, the less solar heat energy is transmitted by the filmed glass. So you can put your hand behind a piece of glass with window film installed and realize that the heat is much less than without the film.

spotlight man photo — Photo by The Library of Congress

UV Rejection

UV Rejection is the percentage of ultraviolet light that is rejected by filmed glass. Ultraviolet light contributes to sunburn and other harmful skin conditions from the sun and to the fading and deterioration of fabrics and leather. The higher the number, the more UV rays are blocked. For more definitions, see 3M Window Film Basics.

Security Films

3M security window film helps protect your home and your family from threats such as break-ins and impact events. This window film holds your window together in case of severe weather or impact.

Anti-Graffiti Films

Anti-Graffiti films are an up-and-coming type of window film! The bottom line with anti-graffiti window film is that when vandals strike, the anti-graffiti film can be easily removed, along with any graffiti or marking that could mar the glass surface. Make an urban area, such as a bus stop, look better, and improve property values at the same time.

Why Hire a Professional Installer?

You could do it yourself, but why not hire someone with training? Do you really want to spend hours of time watching videos about window film installation when you could pick up the phone and have someone else do it? Save yourself the frustration and spend your time doing something more fun!

How to Clean Windows with Window Film?

Be a little more careful cleaning your windows with film on them. Use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Wipe the squeegee clean with a paper towel after each swipe. Wipe the window dry with a soft cloth (do not use a paper towel on the window itself). That’s it!

Photo by neiljs

Got Questions?

Chances are, we can answer your window film questions!

Skin Cancer Awareness Month: What You Need to Know

May 28, 2016 by Carol S Leave a Comment

We definitely believe that Skin Cancer Awareness Month shouldn’t be only this month, but every month. Nevertheless, there are some important things to know about skin cancer. The American Academy of Dermatologists has designated May Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

Always Protect Your Skin from the Sun

If you’re ever confused about whether to use sunscreen, don’t be! Even if it’s cloudy, ultraviolet rays can damage your skin. Here’s a comprehensive list of types of sunscreen, strength, and other things to do to protect your skin. But how, you might ask? Keep sunscreen everywhere: in your car, in your bag, at home, etc. The hours between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. are especially dangerous.

Apply Lotion with Sunscreen

For men, after shaving is a good time to apply lotion with sunscreen to prevent melanoma. Although melanoma makes up only 1% of skin cancers, it makes for the majority of skin cancer deaths. Men, in general, have a harder time using sunscreen. But lotion makes your skin softer and more touchable.

Prevent Melanoma

The AAD has designated a hashtag, #MelanomaMonday, to kick off Skin Cancer Awareness Month. And they’ve created a fun video, too! Take a minute and check it out! We’re talking to you, guys!

Window Film and Skin Cancer

Window film prevents most of the UVA radiation that can penetrate glass. Here’s what the Skin Cancer Foundation has to say: “However, at least 50 percent of UVA rays can pass through windows. Window film is an increasingly effective solution, offering substantial indoor protection by blocking up to 99.9 percent of UVA radiation.”

Commercial and Residential Window Film

Call us if you need window film for your home or office! We work all over the San Francisco Bay Area, including Silicon Valley, San Jose, and the Peninsula.

Here are some recent articles to show you our best films:

Join Us in Preventing Skin Cancer

No matter what your reason for preventing skin cancer, it’s important that you do. For instance, looking good is a great reason! But how about being around for your family, saving money on doctor’s bills, and keeping all those sunscreen manufacturers in business. Just kidding about that last one! But come on! Staying alive?

family picnic photo — Photo by Seattle Municipal Archives

Spotlight on Skin: Six Ways to Protect Yours Now

May 24, 2016 by Carol S Leave a Comment

Now that summer’s almost here, you’ll need to protect your skin. Go beyond simple sunscreen this year. And by the way, if you’re behind glass, you’re not protected from harmful UV radiation! That’s right, ultraviolet radiation is harmful to your skin even if you’re indoors.

Clothing with Built-In Sun Protection

Did you know that there is now clothing with built-in protection? REI has a very thorough article on the benefits of sun-protective clothing. It’s an easy and modern way to increase your protection when you have to be in the sun. By the way, we have no affiliation.

“Slip! Slop! Slap!^®… and Wrap”

We really like this way to remember how to prevent skin cancer, from the American Cancer Society. It’s a handy way to remember what to do:

Slip on a shirt.
Slop on sunscreen.
Slap on a hat.
Wrap on sunglasses to protect the eyes and sensitive skin around them.

Shade Sails

People, being the ingenious creatures we are, have come up with clever ways to protect ourselves from bright sun. If you spend time outdoors on your patio or deck, do a search on Amazon and you’ll find some attractive and inexpensive shade sails. We’ve even seen them at Costco!

Ask the Experts

Who better than OSHA to ask about how to protect yourself from the sun? Their advice includes covering up, wearing sunscreen, and wearing UV-absorbent shades. If you’d rather ask Bigfoot about sun protection, he’s got an opinion, too.

Window Film: Our Favorite!

You might not remember to slather on sunscreen when you’re inside your home. Window film is sunscreen for your home or business’ windows.

What Did We Leave Out?

If you have a favorite way of protecting your skin, we’d love to hear from you.

You’ll Have to Pay Someone to Fix it

It Won’t Look as Good

Your Second Cousin is Very Talented

There Will Be Bubbles

There Will be Debris, Pet Hair, or Fingerprints

You’ll Have to Buy Tools

You Don’t Enjoy Doing Windows

Using the Wrong Chemicals

Your Squeegee Isn’t Pro

Who Can You Call if Your Install Goes South?

Sunlight, Your Skin and UV Rays

Window Film Blocks Harmful UV Rays

Want Younger-Looking Skin?

Elastin Keeps Skin Elastic

Every Little Bit Helps

Got Questions?

Service with a Smile

Cheerful Demeanor

Only the Best for Our Clients

What Defines the “Best”?

Focus on Like and Trust

Listening Skills

What About You?

Without Drapes, Fewer Places for Dust to Collect

Focus on Health

Protect Your Furnishings

Affordability and Value

Give Us a Call!

How Do You Protect Your Floor?

3M™ Sun Control Window Film

Carpet Stays Bright and Cheery

Hardwood Floors Stay the Same Color

Wearing Sunglasses Indoors?

UV Damage is Cumulative

Let Us Explain Your Options!

First Tip: Get Window Film!

Second Tip: Monthly Self-Exam

Third Tip: Protect Your Left Side

Fourth Tip: Take Extra Precautions if You Play Golf

Fifth Tip: Ask An Expert

Sixth Tip: Call Us for the Best Window Film!

Check Them out on Social Media

Stalk Their Blog

Ask Whether They Service Your Area

Check the Numbers

Ask for References

Make Sure They Carry Reputable Brands

Got Questions?

What Is Window Film?

How Does Window Film Work?

Heat Rejection

Visible Light Transmission

Total Solar Energy Rejected

UV Rejection

Security Films

Anti-Graffiti Films

Why Hire a Professional Installer?

How to Clean Windows with Window Film?

Got Questions?

Always Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Apply Lotion with Sunscreen

Prevent Melanoma

Window Film and Skin Cancer

Commercial and Residential Window Film

Join Us in Preventing Skin Cancer

Clothing with Built-In Sun Protection

“Slip! Slop! Slap!®… and Wrap”

Shade Sails

Ask the Experts

Window Film: Our Favorite!

What Did We Leave Out?

“Slip! Slop! Slap!^®… and Wrap”