San Francisco Bay Area

Five Reasons You Could Be Arrested for DIY (Read this!)

March 24, 2022 by Carol S Leave a Comment

Don’t get arrested for a DIY window film project!

Have you ever gotten partway through a DIY project only to discover that you’ve bitten off more than you could chew? Or have you ever been stopped by the Window Film Police ™ because they’ve seen you trying to either install your own window film or remove someone else’s window film failure? If you’re a DIYer (or thinking about installing your own window film), read on. You’re likely to recognize yourself in some of these paragraphs. If not, well, consider it a cautionary tale. One that could easily happen to you.

Why is it a bad idea to install my own window film?

We do hear this question from time to time. There are many reasons why, actually. First of all, people hardly ever measure twice and cut once. It’s more like they sorta-kinda measure using an old magazine as a yardstick or a broken app on their phone. Or they use their arms because they saw someone do it on a YouTube Video! Then they guesstimate how much film they need. Eventually, they use their phone for its original purpose (phoning). Do you remember using your phone as a phone? It happens sometimes. Anyway, when people get around to calling us, they’re often embarrassed. Or crying. Or their friend or partner calls us in hushed tones when the guilty DIYer has left the house for a few minutes, begging us to come over. But what is that DIYer thinking? That no one will ever find out? By the way, we’ve written about how to prepare for window film installation before. You might like that article.

Removing the old film myself–what could possibly go wrong?

You already know the answer to this because you’ve probably tried removing some old film at home, despite the warnings not to. Using an old hair dryer and some rags from the Dollar Store, you’ve attempted window film removal. You start earlyish, leaving time for snack breaks and possible shopping trips. It looks pretty good until you touch the surface and realize there’s still glue all over the window! And all over you, too! Oh, no!!! Now what? If we had a flow chart, we’d go back to the part where you end up calling us. There could be crying.

Because of the last time you did a DIY

Do you remember the last time you tried something and it didn’t work out? Remember when you bought that broken-down dresser at that yard sale and decided to antique it and turn it into a combination bar/desk. It looked so easy on Pinterest, right? But then you were all covered in paint, paint remover, and again there were tears. Also, lots of cursing. And you’ll never get those jeans back. Those $300 jeans that you used to love. The Window Film Police would just love to hear about this!

Your friends know you and your past

Your friends have seen you looking at those pix of sleek remodels, and they know how your mind works. They’ve witnesses that optimistic squirrel brain thinking that you can do anything up to and maybe including flying. They know you like to take shortcuts when you DIY, and they’re embarrassed and scared. Which is why they could make a citizen’s arrest.

You don’t have the time or patience

Remember that full-time job you have? By the time you get home and change and watch 10,000 YouTube videos on how to install window film, you’ll be tired. So here you go: the Quick Residential Estimate. Simply fill it out and send it. Easy peasy. Really! You don’t have to do it yourself! And also: Window Works customer care is at 415.650.5200. Pick up your phone and enter our number! We really are very friendly, and we’ll answer your questions.

Stay out of trouble

We work all over the greater San Francisco Bay Area, from San Jose to the East Bay to the Peninsula and Marin! So stay out of trouble and give us a call!

Why your New Year’s Resolutions should include window film installation

January 5, 2022 by Carol S Leave a Comment

If your New Year’s resolutions don’t include window film, you’re doing it wrong!

You’ve heard about the usual New Year’s resolutions, all the ones you write down and promptly forget. But what about creating some New Year’s resolutions which are easy to keep and require very little work from you? What about those resolutions? Here are a bunch of reasons you ought to include window film installation in your list of resolutions. Not that we’re telling you what to do. But stick around and maybe we’ll convince you!

New Year’s resolutions should be easy

Seriously, when was the last time you had an easy resolution? Are you really going to lose weight in January, a time when every cell in your body is screaming at you to eat all the cupcakes and binge-watch Netflix? NO! And are you going to battle the gym right now, what with the new Covid restrictions? Are you going to triple-mask so you’ll feel safe? NO! But guess what? (If you were here, you’d say “What?!”) Window film installation is super easy!

New Year’s resolutions should improve your health

You might already know that window film reduces UV rays coming through your windows. And that those same UV rays are what cause skin cancer. If not, you’re hearing it here first. Window film can improve your health! It’s like having sunglasses on your house or office! But don’t take our word for it–check out the Skin Cancer Foundation’s excellent article Not All UV Rays Stay Outside: How Window Film Can Help Protect You.

Use window film with dots, patterns or stripes to make your office look snazzier

New Year’s resolutions should lower your heating and A/C bill

With Thinsulate window film, your temperatures will even out. That is, your place will be cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. So your heating and cooling bills will be lower. And doesn’t everyone want lower power bills? By the way, we’ve written about Thinsulate before because we love it so much! Why Use 3M Thinsulate Window Film: Five Good Reasons You Need to Know.

New Year’s Resolutions should make your home or office look better

Did you know that window films have improved a lot over the past years? There are many decorative window films that can add to the easy glamor of your place, with gorgeous designs that will make you the envy of your neighborhood. Take a look at some of our decorative window films here: Decorating with Window Film. 3M Fasara window film comes in a variety of designs. There are patterns, dots, and stripes.

So easy a kid could do it!

If your kid can pick up the phone and find us, and you’re in the San Francisco Bay Area, you could be done with your New Year’s resolutions! That’s not to say you should make your kid call us! All we’re saying is it’s that easy. We work throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, from San Jose to the East Bay to the Peninsula and Marin! Call Window Works customer care at 415.650.5200 for pricing and more information. We’re very friendly!

The Jungle Gold & Glam Window Works Holiday Party

December 21, 2021 by Carol S Leave a Comment

Everyone really enjoyed themselves, getting all dolled up for this holiday party at Morton’s Steakhouse in San Francisco. As you can see, lots of people wore RAWR (jungle prints) from their shoes and jackets to their hair scrunchies and dresses! And there was a LOT of gold, too! And in case you haven’t seen enough of either RAWR or the Window Works crew, here’s what happened last week: What Happens When the Window Works Crew Gets Together for Christmas.

Karaoke Galore

Although it’s tempting to post the drunken singing that happened, we’ve been sworn to secrecy on who sang the loudest and most out of key. There were a lot of renditions of Christmas songs, from Jingle Bells on out. Michael Jackson had a strong showing, too, as his songs are easy to sing. And there was some controversy, but supposedly the best and easiest karaoke song is Tequila, since there’s only ONE WORD to remember! And still some people would not sing! But we won’t embarrass them by calling them out.

The Ladies of Window Works

This year, we had problems deciding if the ladies or the guys had the better outfits! There were some fantastic shoes on both the ladies and the guys! But Asia and Donna definitely had more RAWR per inch (RPI), so because we made up that term and we’re the only ones voting, the ladies WIN!!! Sorry, guys! Besides, we had all the best shoes, too!

Then there were shoes

Yes, the ladies also win because we froze our toes off in the frigid December San Francisco night. And we wore heels while doing it. Debbie had the most sparkly shoes (she’s in the middle with those sparkly bows!). You needed sunglasses to look at Asia’s shoes (the gold heels on the end).

The Guys were very glam and also quite RAWR!

We had a great time comparing RAWR outfits and competing with the drinking and singing–sometimes at the same time!

Between the jacket, the shoes, and the balloons, he’s most RAWRful!

Honorable mention

This gentleman, above, was stopped in Union Square for his outstanding RAWR! Can that possibly be Brian behind that mask?

The Food!

Geez, the food was so good, but people didn’t take too many pix of food! The appetizers were all on individual plates, and SO DELICIOUS!!! As was the steak, the wine, the many drinks, the potatoes, the green beans, the bread, and the desserts! Oh, and the salads, too!

Gang Signs?

What’s easier? Making a sign that says “Live long and proper” or making Ws for Window Works? We’ll leave that up to you!

Ten Uses of Window Film that Will Definitely Spark Joy

October 14, 2021 by Carol S Leave a Comment

Yes, window film can definitely spark joy!

You’ve heard of Mari Kondo and her book about decluttering, and you’ve heard of window film (haven’t you?), but have you ever thought that window film could spark joy? Stick around for a few minutes and you’ll see that it can!

Helps give you a clutter-free life

Since we’re mentioning Mari Kondo, have you considered that having a more streamlined interior will help reduce clutter? No more curtains gathering dust, and no kittens climbing up your drapes! Just a sleek look to your business or home.

Reduces UV light

What’s the big deal about UV light? It can ruin your furniture, clothing, floors, and hurt your eyes, for one thing. And if you’re inside you probably don’t think about putting on sun screen, but you can get lots of UV light right inside your home where you feel safe! Want to learn more about UV light? Check out this post: Dangers of indoor UV radiation.

Equals less Glare

Nobody likes glare, whether you’re trying to do your job or relax at home. Do you know anyone who has to wear sunglasses indoors? You shouldn’t have to with window film.

Gives you more Privacy

Whether you need some privacy because your kids love to come into the bathroom or you have nosy neighbors looking into your place, alone time is #1. With window film, your kids and your neighbors will have to find some other way of entertaining themselves!

Elevates your interior design inspiration

Not all types of window film are plain–some can add to the design of your home or business. We’ve talked about the beauty of Fasara window film before. There are now many different kinds of gorgeous window film to add drama and elegance to your place!

Makes you feel safe

Some films hold your glass together if it’s broken. This is especially important in places with extreme weather. Schools also tend to benefit from safety film.

Saves you money

Window film costs less than replacing your windows, and while the results won’t be quite as dramatic, you’ll still see your heating and cooling bills go down. Single-pane windows act more like double-pane ones, and double-pane windows act like triple-pane windows. And if you have triple-pane windows already? Our hats are off to you!

Reduces heat

Certain rooms in your home or business can become much too hot in the summer (or even the winter around San Francisco!). Window film moderates the temperatures so you can use all your floor space!

Defends your family’s health

Less glare and UV rays mean that your skin doesn’t suffer! Not only your skin, but your eyes can be harmed by UV rays. For a modest price, you can protect your family’s health.

Increases energy efficiency

With global warming, we have to be careful about what energy we use. With window film, you’ll not only save money, but your home or business will be more energy efficient.

Still Aren’t Sure?

Give us a call! We’re happy to work with you and give you reason #11 to work with us! We’re all over the San Francisco Bay Area, from the South Bay to Marin to the East Bay. Here’s our customer care number for your convenience: 415.650.5200.

All About Minimalism and Clear Window Film Technology

April 30, 2021 by Carol S Leave a Comment

A common misconception, even in a sophisticated city like San Francisco, is that window film must be darker to do its job. But lighter or paler window films still provide protection. Light window films do the same job as darker ones. For example, you don’t want dark or mirror film in a beach home or home with view of the mountains. If you want an obscure glass, and you don’t want to go dense, go with 3M Matte Crystal or Sabrina, a 3M Fasara glass finish. Bring in the light and have minimal appearance. You won’t even know that it’s there. Check out the gradations in the different 3M window films above (we’re particularly fond of Sabrina).

Discounts for Small Business and Homeowners for 2021

Since Window Works has now been in business for ten years, we’re offering discounts every month this year. For May, our discount to small businesses and homeowners is 10% off all clear window films. In case you missed it, read about our ten-year anniversary discounts. If you want more information about which window films qualify as light window films, give us a call! Here’s our number for your convenience: 415.650.5200. We especially welcome homeowners who may have felt too intimidated to call. We really are very friendly!

Indoor Sun Protection

Did you know that you need protection from the sun inside your home? If you didn’t know this, you’re not alone. Here’s a great video that you might enjoy, from the International Window Film Association:

As you can see, you do need protection from UVA/UVB inside your home. Also, did we mention that the darkness of the window film doesn’t really matter: light window film will protect you as much as the darker stuff does. People have the misconception that window film has to be dark, but don’t fall for this piece of fake news!

Prestige 60 and 70 Window Film

You can have a minimalist look with window film. What we’re saying is this is the opposite of blackout window film. And for the super nerds among you, here are some data sheets so you can see the numbers behind the technology. If you’d like to know more about Prestige window film, you might like this article: Get ready for summer with Prestige window film.

Lombard Street, one of our favorite views in San Francisco

You Moved to San Francisco for the Views!

Amiright? If you’re in the San Francisco Bay Area, one big reason you’re here is the views! Whether you see cable cars, the bay, or the Golden Gate Bridge, that’s a view you don’t want to block! So think about having a light window film, not only because it’s less cluttered, but also so you can have an unhampered view of our beautiful city. If you have an ugly view, window film can help with that, too, but that’s a topic for another day.

This Is What Happens When You Make Your Home A Sanctuary

March 26, 2020 by Carol S 1 Comment

Remember a few weeks ago, when the world seemed normal? For us here in San Francisco, March came in like a lamb and like a lion. Usually, it’s the other way around. Suddenly, everyone was afraid. We’re keeping that six-foot distance, and following all the recommendations. And we’re staying at home. If you, like us, are keen on making your home a place you love instead of just tolerate, stick around. Here are some ideas.

Organize That Spot You’ve Never Organized

It doesn’t have to be your sock drawer, but surely there’s a place that you’ve always been meaning to organize and you haven’t. Be ruthless in getting rid of those things you no longer use or love. As Marie Kondo says, it should “spark joy.” After that first pass, you’ll just have the things left that you really enjoy.

Organizing Your Space Makes You Feel Good

Create An Altar

For some people, an altar is a spiritual spot, filled with religious items. Your altar could be filled with photos, trip souveneirs, and all the things that lift your spirits. Maybe a candle and a beautiful piece of fabric could go there. You could add a letter or card from your friends or family.

Does Your Home Suit You?

Now that you have some extra time, look around at your home. Does it really fit your lifestyle? Do you have old gear that is broken or doesn’t suit your lifestyle any more? Why not give it away to someone who’ll enjoy it. Not the broken stuff, of course, but the things that don’t work for you any more. Someone else might really enjoy it!

What About the Colors and Textures?

If you don’t love the colors and textures you see around you every day, why not change them? Painting is an excellent and easy way to change the mood. You might also think about adding textures to walls, or moving furniture around. Although it’s a difficult time right now, we can always take advantage of the time we have at home to make it into our own private oasis. Feeling safe and cozy in our homes goes a long way toward creating a sanctuary.

Women in Construction Luncheon 2020 a Success!

March 12, 2020 by Carol S Leave a Comment

Women in Construction networking 2020 — Women in Construction Networking 2020

This year, Window Works once again hosted the Women in Construction Luncheon in partnership with the San Francisco Builders’ Exchange. It was our fourth annual luncheon for Women in Construction Week, and we hope to host many more in the future! This year’s luncheon was more popular than ever!

By the way, here are some posts from our previous luncheons:

Thank You to Our Women Friends and Sponsors!

Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone who pitched in to help! Without you, the Women in Construction luncheon could never take place. Thank you to our dear friend and ally Deanna Johnson for all that she does to help Members and Tenants here at SFBS! We wouldn’t have had nearly as much fun without Irene Nunez, who knows the business backwards and forwards. We also want to thank Interwest Distribution, 3M window film, NY Engineering and the incomparable Nilgun Wolpe, and BBI Construction. We’d also like to thank Miles Alfonso at UPS for the copper bags and all the swag, too! Also: Lina Tan at Pilot Construction. You see–it really does take a village!

All for One, One for All!

As you might be able to tell, we’re always having fun. A few of us wore matching shoes and instead of doing a high five, touched toes (sort of like the knights of the round table, but sort of not!). Other people are doing “jazz hands,” but we’re doing jazz feet!

Lunch is Served!

This year’s sandwiches were scrumptious. We also had salsa, chips, and lots of cookies. Although the luncheon isn’t really all about the food, having a good meal is never a bad thing!

The Ladies of Window Works

In case you’re wondering, here are the ladies that keep Window Works afloat! From left to right, Carol Stephen our social media manager, Asia Bautista our fearless leader and CEO, the incomparable Em Estanislao in Customer Care, the always-wonderful Maicca Diche, Business Operations Manager, and the talented and hardworking Donna Dris in Customer Care.

We Look Forward to Next Year’s Luncheon

This isn’t the last you’ve heard from the Women in Construction! Stay tuned for next year’s Women in Construction Luncheon!

Window Works Accepted to Turner School of Construction Management

February 20, 2020 by Carol S Leave a Comment

Window Works just got accepted to the Turner School of Construction Management! We’re super excited about this and how it will help not just us but how we manage our San Francisco Bay Area jobs! That means our clients will benefit from our added knowledge, too.

What Are the Details?

Turner Construction and Union Bank are kicking off the 2020 San Francisco Turner School of Construction Management training program February through April at the San Francisco International Airport. Classes include Accounting Basics for Contractors, Estimating, Field Operations, Insurance & Bonding, Management, Business Development/Marketing, Project Delivery Systems & Contract Risk Management, Safety, and Scheduling. This is a thirteen-week course, so it is very thorough.

Turner Construction Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Construction Management Course

Last year, Turner Construction celebrated 50 years of the construction management course. Established in 1969 in an effort to improve the economic viability of under-represented business enterprises and increase the number and quality of opportunities available to growing businesses, it quickly became a successful path for Turner to develop strategic business relationships in the communities where they build. They have graduated more than 30,000 people from this valuable course.

How Will the Construction Management Course Help?

Each class provides networking opportunities between other business owners and Turner industry experts that lead the classes. The Estimating and Scheduling classes have an additional hands-on exercise that offer participants real-life work experiences. We are sure that the emphasis on estimating, safety, and risk management will intertwine to give us an even better edge. And, although we already have real-life work experiences, we may be able to mentor those who don’t. In any event, networking with those in the industry is always a positive experience.

Speaking of Networking

You might be thinking that we’re already doing a lot of networking. That’s true. In fact, in case you missed it, here’s a link to our Women in Construction Luncheon in San Francisco. We’d love to see you there! It’s Thursday, March 5th in San Francisco. You don’t have to be in the window film business in order to attend–nor do you have to be a construction worker. You can be involved in any area of construction–from accounting to risk management.

Onward!

We look forward to finishing the course work and adding even more value to our business.

Why Is 3M’s Night Vision Window Film So Crazy Popular?

January 30, 2020 by Carol S Leave a Comment

happy photo

We’ve talked about the different kinds of window film before, but 3M’s Night Vision is one we have not discussed much. 3M’s Night Vision Window Film is loved by everyone, hands down. And in case you missed it, here’s our last post about Prestige Window Film: Why 3M Prestige Window Film?

Overview of Night Vision Window Film

Night Vision:
- Is dual reflective (meaning reflective but less reflective from the interior at night or with darker lighted interior scenarios than all others)
- Offers enhanced views with low interior reflectivity
- Has very high heat rejection properties
- Does not reduce heat or infrared (IR) on contact like Prestige does
- Rejects up to 71% of the sun’s heat and helps reduce eye discomfort
- Has the most aggressive glare reduction in the Industry
- Blocks the amount of harmful UV rays that cause fading to your furniture and valuables
- Is scratch-resistant
- Has centric pricing, not a high-end material like others

Prestige Window Film and Night Vision Window Film are 3M’s marquis products. Prestige is best-in-class in our industry, yet Night Vision is America’s Number 1 selling window film (and 3M’s, too). For more details about Night Vision, see 3M’s Sun Control Window Film Night Vision Series.

Why Night Vision?

For many customers, pricing is an issue. For those budget-minded folks, we find that Night Vision window film is a very good option. Perhaps that’s one reason why this window film is so popular. After all, it still has the great 3M name backing it up. It still reduces glare and has heat rejection properties, too. But why take it from us? Why not let Wayne Newton explain how he uses 3M’s Night Vision to protect his estate and valuables?!

Choose Your Level of Protection

3M^TM Sun Control Window Night Vision Series is available in a variety of tint levels to meet your needs.

We’re Available to Talk

Want to know more? Give us a call and we can help guide you through the available options. We work all over the greater San Francisco Bay Area, including Marin County, the peninsula, and the East Bay.

How to Enter the Wild and Unusual World of Window Film

November 15, 2019 by Carol S Leave a Comment

Are you interested in using window film but don’t know where to start? There are lots of wild and unusual window films these days. Window films can redirect sunlight, block UV, help prevent glass from shattering, and so much more. Sometimes getting started is the toughest part of any project. And are you located in the San Francisco Bay Area? Then read on! We have plenty of ideas for you.

Start with a Window

You may have that one annoying window where there’s always glare. You can’t sit next to it so the space is essentially wasted. Yet the view would be wonderful if only there was no glare. We all have a window like that! Here’s How to Dramatically Cut Back Sun Glare: 10 Ways. Not all of them use window film, but of course that’s our favorite solution.

Choose a Window Film

It doesn’t have to be anything fancy. Sometimes simple is the most elegant. We love 3M window film. Here are three ideas we particularly love. Patterns, dots, and stripes can all be elegant and simple. If you want a bold solution, that’s available, too.

If none of those work, there are many other options.

Call Us

Lots of people don’t know where to start. We can get you going! We have loads of experience with residential and commercial window film jobs, all over the bay area. And if you want your window film to look good, you’ll want to hire a professional!

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