Blog – Page 23

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.

How to Make an Invisible Theft Deterrent: New Window Film

April 14, 2016 by Window Works Leave a Comment

For commercial or residential property, there are a variety of ways to deter thieves. You can install alarms, lighting systems, monitors to record activity nearby, or have a trained guard dog. Here are some ways we have found that work wonders.

Window Film

Window film helps keep you, your family, and your business safe because it holds glass together. Every second counts when a thief is trying to get into your home. Don’t let the “crime of convenience” term be associated with your home–take aggressive steps to make it difficult for thieves to break in! And if you want to know how to keep your family’s skin safe, see our Dangers of Indoor UV Radiation: How to Protect Yourself. More about safety film below.

Own a Dog

Some dogs are better than others at protecting your property. You probably wouldn’t choose a tiny dog, unless it had a huge bark and a huger bite. But a Doberman or a German Shepherd with adequate training would do a great job. Both are on the Top Ten List of Dog Breeds for Protection. And if you own a dog, you might also want to post a Beware of Dog sign. By the way, here’s how Big Foot Beats the Heat. Big Foot is definitely big enough to help deter thieves.

Install Lighting

Motion detector lighting is one simple way to deter thieves. You can adjust the lights for different times of year, how long the lights stay on, and the distance-range setting. You may want to improve your security by pointing lights at all points of entry to your home. Here’s an excellent article on How to Choose and Install Motion Detector Lighting. You want to avoid having places for thieves to hide, such as behind bushes or doorways.

Have a Home Security System

There are a number of smart home security systems now available without the costly monthly fees. Be careful when choosing your home security system. Consumer Reports recently reviewed three of these home security systems, and found that they mostly deliver what they promised. Another deterrent is to post signs letting potential thieves know that you have a security system. If you decide that you do want to buy one of the big-name security systems, Huffington Post has a good article about how to choose one, and emphasizes ways to get discounts!

keynote photo — Photo by Ignite New Zealand

Get a Home Security Check

Many police departments offer security checks. Ask your local officers in blue to come by and walk around. They’ll give you suggestions to help beef up your security. Some tips are quite simple, such as locking doors, installing peepholes, and keeping exterior areas lit up. The San Jose Police Department has a good, five-minute video on preventing burglary. They emphasize that burglars are looking for easy entry into homes.

open fence photo — Photo by AJU_photography

Be a Good Neighbor

Being a good neighbor sounds like a cliche, but we’ve all known people who don’t even know their neighbors! If you don’t know yours, today is the day to change that! A batch of cookies and a walk through the neighborhood will quickly end the problem of living next to strangers. Or, if you’re too shy to walk around with cookies, you could take a digital approach and join a Facebook group, or a local NextDoor.com group.

Avoid Mentioning Travel Plans on Social Media

Of course you want to keep your friends updated, but why not share after you’ve returned? Those wonderful photos of you on the beach can surely keep for another day or two. Here is a list of things not to post on Facebook before or while you’re on vacation. For instance, don’t say you’re going to buy some diamonds and will be out of town for a few days.

window lock photo — Photo by Alain LE GUEN

Window Locks

Since windows are one of the least secure spots in a home, spending a little of your security budget can have a big impact on your home or business’ security. Window locks are an inexpensive option that does not detract from the style of your home. One of the best deterrents is a hefty window lock that is visible from the outside, as outlined in this excellent article, How to Burglar-Proof Windows.

3M Safety Film

If a picture is worth a thousand words, how much is this video about 3M safety film worth? Above, two industrious burglars try to break into a clothing store in Dallas, Texas, and eventually give up and drive off. They try hitting it and even throw a garbage can at it.

Safety Film is Invisible But Results Aren’t!

You’ll probably forget that you have safety film once it’s installed. But rest assured that it’s protecting you! It requires no feeding, no additional monthly fees, and very little maintenance other than occasional cleaning!

Give Us a Call!

Ready to install safety film, or have questions about whether it’s right for you? We’re in Santa Clara, near the San Jose Airport. But we travel all over the San Francisco Bay Area!

3M Window Film: 50th Anniversary – Now You See it, Now You Don’t

March 4, 2016 by Window Works 2 Comments

You might not know that window film not only protects you and your family from UV light, even when you’re indoors, but that most of the time it works so well that you don’t even know it’s there! And that using 3M window film is the way to go. 3M window film has been around for 50 years, and 3M is a company that you already know, like, and trust.

You might have read our previous post about 3M Window Film’s 50th Anniversary – Luxury and Trust in a Remarkable Combo.

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

Window Film is Thin

Can you say Post-It Note thin? That’s how thin window film is. Once it’s applied to your glass, you can barely tell that it’s there, even though it’s filtering out dangerous UV radiation for you. As you sit there, eating your breakfast, watching t.v., or playing with your kids, window film protects you.

Sunscreen Without the Grease

We do love sunscreen, and recommend it anytime you’re outdoors, especially at the beach. But when you’re inside relaxing, who wants all the trouble? There’s already a solution to this problem, and it’s window film!

Fade Reduction

Not only does 3M’s window film protect you, it can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays to reduce fading of furnishings and carpet. You’ve seen those homes where the beautiful wood floor is faded near the windows? Don’t let that happen to you!

piggy bank photo — Photo by kenteegardin

Saves You Money

Window film helps you with the bottom line by reducing cooling costs. This is true for both residential and commercial buildings, where the sun’s glare can cause overheating inside the house. This seemingly insurmountable problem can be solved with window film.

Know, Love, and Trust

It’s often said that people do business with people they know, like, and trust. What about companies that you know, like, and trust? The same statement holds true. And 3M’s 50 years of history producing window film means that they’re a solid company.

happy photo — Photo by Alex88 (All Images Taken By Me)

Photo by Alex88 (All Images Taken By Me)

Give Us a Call!

We’re in Santa Clara, and provide service all over the San Francisco Bay Area.

Dangers of Indoor UV Radiation: How to Protect Yourself

February 23, 2016 by Window Works 2 Comments

Danger of Indoor UV Radiation: How to Protect Yourself — The Dangers of Indoor UV Radiation: How to Protect Yourself

You might think that if you stay indoors, wear sunscreen, and don a big hat that you’ll be safe from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. But did you realize that even indoors you can receive a lot of the wrong kind of ultraviolet light? There are two kinds of UV: UVA and UVB. UVA rays account for up to 95 percent of the UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface, as outlined by SkinCancer.org. UVA rays are present with relatively equal intensity during all daylight hours throughout the year, and can penetrate clouds and glass. What can you do about it, though?

Windows Don’t Block UVA Radiation

Windows do not block all ultraviolet rays when you’re indoors. And while UVB rays can harm your skin, they are not as significant in harming your skin as are UVA rays are indoors. Perry Robins, MD, President, The Skin Cancer Foundation says: “We now know that UVA radiation can penetrate windows to reach the skin, accelerating skin aging.”

Use a Broad-Spectrum SunScreen

Your sunscreen should be at least 15 SPF, and include one of these UVA-protective ingredients: avobenzone, ecamsule, oxybenzone, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide. Make sure to apply it liberally to your face, in particular. Consumer Reports has a list of the best sunscreens, and what to look for.

Apply Window Film

Window film, which can be applied to home, office and car windows, blocks almost 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation. This is the best way to prevent UVA rays from reaching you indoors. After all, you don’t always want to be wearing gloves, a hat, and sunscreen inside, do you? We have lots of different kinds of decorative window film, such as:

Have Questions?

As far as aesthetics, you may have lots of questions. We can help! By now you probably know that we are in Santa Clara, although we work all over the San Francisco Bay Area. Give us a call! We’d love to talk to you.

3M Window Film: 50th Anniversary – Luxury and Trust in a Remarkable Combo

February 11, 2016 by Window Works 2 Comments

3M Window Film: 50th Anniversary – Luxury and Trust in a Remarkable Combo

Luxury and Trust

When you think of window film, does your mind automatically go to 3M? For us, it certainly does! During this 50th anniversary year of 3M window film, you’ll be seeing more posts about 3M’s five decades of production. And as with other luxury products, there is a simplicity and elegance to 3M window film. After the film is installed, you can stop thinking about it.

3M Passes the Test of Time

Your window film works for you every day in the background. You might feel so comfortable that you didn’t notice that your living room, office, or car is cooler than outside, with less glare. You will notice the softer light in your building or automobile, without the harsh, piercing light. And you’ll enjoy a “zen” feeling of quiet.

UV Protection

One of the best features of window film is that it protects you against cancer-causing ultraviolet light. Take it from the Skin Cancer Foundation: Window film protects your health and home: few people realize that they can protect their skin while they’re indoors. And many don’t realize that they need protection indoors. Since a large percentage of UV can pass through glass (about 50%), why not stop it before it gets into your home and ruins your health or your furnishings?

Invest In Your Future

One of the best investments for your health is 3M window film. Even on a cloudy day, as this article from American Scientist explains, you are not safe from exposure to Ultraviolet radiation. There is also the confounding cloud enhancement of UV, which means that at times clouds make UV worse. Ozone depletion has also removed some of the protective layer from our atmosphere, so window film can protect you from damaging rays that enter through your windows.

Get Covered!

Whether it’s residential, commercial, or automotive, we’ve got you and your windows covered! Don’t forget: we’ve recently moved to Santa Clara, so we’re even more accessible to the San Francisco Peninsula. And we do travel to your location for residential or commercial film installations.

3M Fasara Decorative Window Film: Stripes Forever

January 18, 2016 by Window Works 3 Comments

If your home or office is a little boring, you might consider the use of stripes. Stripes add energy and a modern feeling to any building. You can add them via striped rugs, wallpaper, or wall paint, as outlined in this article from Freshome, 40 Daring Striped Interiors. When our clients say they want a bold, fresh look we ask them to consider 3M Fasara decorative window film (in particular stripes!).

Series on 3M Fasara Decorative Window Film

This is our first in a series on this wonderful decorative window film. Here are two other posts in the series:

Control Light and Privacy

You have the ability to control light and privacy with all 3M Fasara deco window film. With the striped films, you can alter the width of the stripes depending upon how much light or privacy you need. For example, the wider stripe in the 3M™ FASARA™ Arpa lets more light through. And you can cover part of the window or the entire pane of glass.

Use a Combination of Thin and Wide Stripes

To give your room a fun, jazzy look, why not combine thin and wide stripes? If you need ideas for how stripes would work with your interior, Houzz can give you inspiration. With 3M Fasara window film, you can use thin and wider stripes.

Fun Plus Sophistication

Like polka dots, stripes are fun yet sophisticated. You can use stripes to elongate or stretch a room, making it seem bigger, wider, or taller. Stripes in a room do the same thing as stripes on a person, and can make your room look taller and sleeker.

Cost Savings

Besides improving your life, window film can save you a lot of money. Rather than purchasing or creating etched, cut, sandblasted, or textured glass, you have the option of modernizing your look with window film. Many of our clients love the flexibility that decorative window film gives them.

A Look Interior Designers Love

If you’re a designer, you’ll love the look of 3M Fasara window film. And did you know about our Referral Agent Program? Check it out and then give us a call!

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?

Window Film

Own a Dog

Install Lighting

Have a Home Security System

Get a Home Security Check

Be a Good Neighbor

Avoid Mentioning Travel Plans on Social Media

Window Locks

3M Safety Film

Safety Film is Invisible But Results Aren’t!

Give Us a Call!

Window Film is Thin

Sunscreen Without the Grease

Fade Reduction

Saves You Money

Know, Love, and Trust

Give Us a Call!

Windows Don’t Block UVA Radiation

Use a Broad-Spectrum SunScreen

Apply Window Film

Have Questions?

Luxury and Trust

3M Passes the Test of Time

UV Protection

Invest In Your Future

Get Covered!

Series on 3M Fasara Decorative Window Film

Control Light and Privacy

Use a Combination of Thin and Wide Stripes

Fun Plus Sophistication

Cost Savings

A Look Interior Designers Love

“Slip! Slop! Slap!^®… and Wrap”