Why Window Film Makes A Great Gift

November 28, 2019 by Carol S Leave a Comment

Every year about this time, millions of people all over the world think about what to get their family and friends for the holidays. It’s not just Christmas, it’s year-end gifts, appreciation for doing business, etc. There are lots of reasons to buy gifts. You might have considered getting people fruit baskets, but why not get them something different this year?

Window Film Lasts Longer Than Fruit Baskets

That’s right. By the time the last pear in that fruit basket has gone soft, window film will still be up and working on your windows. It’ll be blocking those UV rays, giving your friend more privacy, and being, well, awesome at its job. Your friend or co-worker probably won’t even remember who gave them the fruit basket! But the window film? They’ll remember that. If you really, really need a fruit basket, Harry and David has some good ones.

Window Film is Unexpected

Who gives anyone window film as a gift? It’s usually something you give yourself, right? Won’t your loved one be surprised, and maybe a little shocked, to get window film instead? Why, yes! Yes, they will be. And if you want to be remembered, this is a very good way. If you don’t know where to start with window film, you might like: How to Enter the Wild and Unusual World of Window Film.

Skin is Important

You only have one body, and that body is covered by skin. Did you know that skin damage is cumulative? So all those days that you sat on the beach as a kid, covered in baby oil and holding up aluminum foil to magnify the sun’s rays? That all adds up. Whoops–you millennials probably don’t know about the baby oil-aluminum foil connection, but you do know about tanning salons. Please don’t use those. If you still think tanning is a great idea, please read: 5 Myths of Indoor Tanning, Busted! from the Skin Cancer Foundation.

When is the Last Time You Got an Unexpected Gift?

Do you remember the last really thoughtful gift you received? One where the giver gave you something that would last for years, protect your skin and eyes, and guard against cancer? Probably never! If you haven’t read this article about how window film protects you, please do: How to Use Window Film That Will Help You Prevent Cancer.

Need a Gift? Give Us a Call!

We’re happy to talk to you about any options in window film. We’re based in San Francisco, with clients all over the great San Francisco Bay Area.

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!

Window Works at the Northern California Facilities Expo 2019

October 16, 2019 by Carol S 2 Comments

On October 9 and 10, 2019, several of us from Window Works worked a booth at the Northern California Facilities Expo at the Santa Clara Convention Center. You might enjoy reading our last blogpost, about the Expo here. Here are a few photos!

Our Booth at the Northern California Facilities Expo 2019

We really enjoyed the set up of the booth. We had lots of people coming and going during the entire show. The only time our booth was empty was before the show opened!

Window Security System

Our window security systems display drew a lot of attention at the Expo. People wondered at the protection that window film gives them. Time is of the essence when someone is trying to break and enter your home, and security window film protects your property and family from intruders as well as broken glass! Read about how 3M Safety and Security Window Film is being used in schools.

An Overview of the Expo

This video shows you the other businesses involved in the Expo. We were lucky enough to get a ride in one of Snorkel’s awesome lifts, the S3219:

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Expo Friends

Here are some Expo friends: (left to right) Lisa Nagle – NCFE Show Director, Kashmir Uppal Atlas Copco – Managing Director & Exhibitor Happy Hour Sponsor, and Asia Bautista of Window Works.

Lisa Nagle - NCFE Show Director, Kashmir Uppal Atlas Copco - Managing Director & Exhibitor Happy Hour Sponsor — Lisa Nagle – NCFE Show Director, Kashmir Uppal Atlas Copco – Managing Director & Exhibitor Happy Hour Sponsor, and Asia Bautistia

The Gang’s (Mostly) All Here

After the Expo, a few of us went to Benihana in Cupertino. The chef showcased a flaming onion, and we had a delicious meal!

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And…It’s a Wrap!

How to Cure Silly Window Film Syndrome

August 29, 2019 by Carol S Leave a Comment

Why silly window film syndrome? Recently, we were reading a post from one of our Twitter followers, Randy Clark. And he accused us of **gasp** being silly! As if that could happen! Anyhow, we were thinking that with all the talk about security violations and privacy lately, one thing that window film really does for you is get you the privacy you need to be as silly as you need to be. Hence, silly window film syndrome was born! Here’s the tweet that inspired this blog post, by the way.

There is a Silly Window Syndrome

Did you know there’s a silly window syndrome? Yes, there is. But that has to do with TCP packets and a David Clark (no relation to Randy Clark). However, as far as we know, there is no silly window film syndrome–yet! So you read about it here first, folks!

What is Silly Window Film Syndrome?

Silly window film syndrome is the ability to be silly because you’re protected by the privacy of window film. People can’t see you making faces, practicing your selfies with your cat, or performing the goofiest goat yoga that yet exists. Silly window film syndrome lets you figure out all the Michael Jackson moves you never mastered back in the ’80s. Curse at your in-laws, make hats out of tin foil, and practice putting on makeup using YouTube videos. Anything is possible.

How to Cure Silly Window Film Syndrome?

To cure silly window film syndrome, do nothing. Without window film, you’ll have to stay serious or risk having someone record you and put a video of you imitating a squirrel up on YouTube. Your life will never look the same. People will point at you and laugh. Unless, of course, they are equally silly. In that case, they may suggest that you become president of the Squirrel Imitators, who meet every Wednesday evening in the park. You know the park? The one with all the trees? That one.

The Choice is Yours

Do you want the freedom to be silly? Then for heaven’s sakes, get yourself some window film. Window film syndrome is not something to be cured after all! If you need ideas on how to be silly, call us! And we also can answer your questions about window film, too! We work all over the greater San Francisco Bay Area.

Five Quick and Easy Ways to Protect Your Eyes from Sun Damage

April 10, 2019 by Carol S 1 Comment

We all want to protect our vision no matter what. Being visual creatures, our vision is critical to our wellbeing at all stages of our life. What if there were some easy ways to protect your eyes from sun damage, though? It turns out that there are! Here are some ideas for you.

Hats off to Big Hats

One of the easiest ways to protect your eyes from sun damage is with a large-brimmed hat. Of course, any hat is better than no hat at all, but size does matter in terms of brim size: the bigger the better! There are now many hats that will provide protection, and kids in particular really need protection. Here’s one hat you can get from Amazon (just do a search for others).

Sunscreen

How much sunscreen do you need to protect your eyes against sun damage? Figure about an ounce (or a shot glass full of sunscreen) for your whole body. Yes, it seems like a lot, but once it absorbs into your skin, that’s the recommended amount. “It is very unlikely that you’re applying too much sunscreen — most people don’t apply enough, which is why undesirable sunburns and tanning can occur despite sunscreen application.” says Elizabeth K. Hale, of the Skin Cancer Foundation. Also, “most sunscreen is safe to use on and around the eyelid region (without putting it in your eye, of course). However, you’ll want to be careful about what type of sunscreen you use, as this area tends to be more delicate and sensitive. Mineral formulas, made with zinc or titanium dioxide, are a good choice, as they are made for sensitive skin and won’t sting your eyes as you sweat.” says Susan Boiko, M.D.

Big Hats and Giant Sunglasses Protect Your Eyes

Avoid the Sun at Peak Hours

The hours between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. are when the sun is at its strongest. So an obvious way to protect your eyes from sun damage and avoid skin cancer is to avoid the damaging rays of the sun during those hours. The American Cancer Society suggests using the shadow test if you’re unsure whether the sun’s rays are at their strongest: “If you are unsure how strong the sun’s rays are, use the shadow test: if your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun’s rays are the strongest, and it’s important to protect yourself.”

Giant Sunglasses

Like big hats, big sunglasses tend to protect your eyes from sun damage the best. There are so many fashion-forward sunglasses that you don’t need to worry about looking silly. However, the National Academy of Ophthalmology suggests choosing sunglasses that protect against 100% of UV light. The color of the lenses doesn’t matter, so if those orange or pink glasses suit your fancy, get them–so long as they give you protection from UV rays.

Window Film

Window film is one of the easiest ways to protect your eyes from sun damage UV because once it’s installed, you don’t have to think about it. And once it’s on your windows, you won’t even know it’s there. In case you’re unfamiliar with window film, you might like: Five Amazing Ways Window Film Can Make You Healthier.

Why Not Use All the Space in Your Home?

December 19, 2018 by Carol S Leave a Comment

Why Not Use All the Space in Your Home?

Having natural light pouring in through your huge glass windows can be a beautiful thing if there’s no glare, but what about when there is? Do you have to pack up yourself, plus your dog and cat, too, every time the sun hits your windows at the wrong angle? We know a number of people who used to have to do that exact thing! And it’s really not very fun. But 3M’s Prestige Window Film can block 97% of infrared light for your comfort. Which is really much easier than having a pair of sunglasses near every single window.

Glare on Your Computer Screen

Are you hiding in your loft because the glare through the windows downstairs is simply too harsh? Or maybe you have strategically placed towels hanging over the windows at certain times of the day. That can happen anywhere from homes to businesses. Here in the San Francisco Bay Area, space is really at a premium. It’s a shame to not be able to use every inch of your space, as we talked about in our previous article: How to Dramatically Cut Back Sun Glare: 10 Ways.

Glare When You’re Trying to Eat

If you’re squinting as you try to see your friend eat, it doesn’t make for good conversation. Without eliminating the glare, you’ll probably be too distracted to have a very good talk. Maybe you have to keep scootching your chairs around every few minutes so you can see each other–as well as your food. That’s also seriously annoying! If your eyes are already strained, you don’t need to be squinting when you should be relaxing.

Glare in Your Eyes

Maybe you’ve given up on trying to use any of the space near your windows at all. That would be a shame since you may have a beautiful view! Glare can cause headaches, sore muscles, and annoyance. And that indoor UV light can damage your furnishings as well as your skin. We’re getting a headache just thinking about the glare! Not to mention all the ways UV light can damage your skin when it enters through your windows.

Ready to Use All Your Space?

We’d love to help! Give us a call and we can help you find a perfect solution to your glare issues. One that doesn’t include squinting.

Spectacular Window Film that Will Save You Money

October 31, 2018 by Carol S Leave a Comment

Spectacular Window Film that Will Save You Money

You’re probably wondering how window film can help you save money. Aren’t you? You will see some cost savings immediately. However, the more important, critical benefits will help you in the long term. Seriously–how do you put a price tag on your health?

Lower Power Bills

With window film, you can save money during both the hot months, with less air conditioning costs, and during the cold months, where your heating bill will go down. Using 3M’s Thinsulate evens out the temperatures year round, saving you money no matter what time of year it is. We’ve written about Thinsulate before, and you might like to read our most recent post: How Does Window Film Help You in the Winter?

Spend Less on Your Health in the Long Run

The science is clear: UV rays cause skin cancer. Most people feel safe indoors, without realizing that UV rays can pass straight through glass, damaging your skin, your eyes, and more. Your family deserves to feel and be safe in your home. So why not invest in your long-term health the way you invest in health insurance? To read more about UV rays and cancer, read more about window film and skin cancer at The Skin Cancer Foundation.

Saves Your Floor, Rugs, and Furniture

Do you love your floor, rugs, and furniture? How about your other belongings? UV light not only damages your family’s skin, but it damages much of your furnishings. Window film can prevent damage to your valuable decor. You’ve probably seen damaged rugs and flooring, but with window film, you can hold onto your cherished possessions longer. Losing the lovely pieces you’ve spent days curating saves you not only money but headaches. Save Money and Beautify Your Home at the same time.

Preserves Your Photographs

Certain of your valuables may be irreplaceable, such as your family photographs. That’s why museums use window film to protect heirloom photographs. You may not be able to put a price tag on your own family heirlooms. Why not protect them with window film so that your family can enjoy them for years to come? Check out Houzz’s excellent article “A Surefire Way to Prevent Sun Damage Indoors.”

Have Questions?

We have answers! Give us a call! We’d be glad to help. Call us at 415.623.8700 to discuss window film!

How Does Window Film Help You in the Winter?

October 16, 2018 by Carol S Leave a Comment

San Francisco photo — How Does Window Film Help You in the Winter?

How Does Window Film Help You in the Winter?

Maybe you’re one of those people who only think about window film in the summer. After all, window film helps with glare and keeping out UV rays. In our experience, people don’t think about window film in the winter nearly as much. Here are some ways that window film can help you in the winter.

Winterizing with Window Film

Of course, 3M has a window film that can help you with climate control, which includes staying warm in the winter and cool in the summer. You don’t want heat escaping in the colder months, just as you don’t want cooler air to escape during the warmer months. By adding 3M’s window film, you can have the best of both worlds. If you already have a double-paned window, it’s like having a triple-paned window. You might want to read about Thinsulate in our previous article: How to Punch the Solar Vortex in the Nose with Window Film.

Keeping Temperature Stable

If temperatures were more stable year-round, planning would be so much easier, wouldn’t it? But temperatures are all over the map, with hotter days in the summer and colder days in the winter. In the San Francisco Bay Area, we always have to dress in layers so we’re prepared for anything. Having the right window film provides that extra layer so we’re prepared for unstable temperatures. Check out 3M’s website for all the details.

3M™ Thinsulate™ Climate Control Window Film Keeps You Warm in the Winter…

“30% of all energy used to heat and cool homes in the U.S. escapes through the windows. 3M™ Thinsulate™ Climate Control Window Film is a low emissivity or “low-e” window film which improves the insulation value of a typical single pane window close to that of a double pane window and the insulation value of a typical double pane window close to a triple pane window.” From 3M™’s website. Keeping your home warm helps you save money on heat. Heating prices seem to be increasing each year. You can check out energy costs, via PG&E, and compare the rates.

And Cool in the Summer

Once summer comes around, you’ll be more concerned about staying cool. And guess what? 3M™ Thinsulate™ Climate Control Window Film does that, too! So you’ll save money in the winter as well as the summer. And we think that’s pretty cool! More about staying cool in the summer here: How to Stay Warm in the Winter and Cool in the Summer.

Have Questions?

Still not sure about Thinsulate or any window film? We can help advise you! Give us a call at 415.623.8700 to discuss window film!

What Happens When a New Homeowner Installs Window Film?

September 30, 2018 by Carol S Leave a Comment

What Happens When a New Homeowner Installs Window Film?

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you have window film installed at your new home? Window film is one of the quickest and easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint, enjoy less glare, and keep the UV rays outside. There are a few things you might notice, and some things you won’t notice, too.

Enjoy the Quiet

According to Wikipedia, “Sensory overload occurs when one or more of the body’s senses experiences over-stimulation from the environment.” And here in the San Francisco Bay Area, there is so much noise that you can easily become over-stimulated. If you’re someone who gets sensory overload, then window film will definitely help your nerves feel less jangly.

No More Glare

Glare can occur inside the home when the sun is setting as well as when the sun enters your windows and gets in your eyes. We’ve often written about people who need to wear sunglasses indoors. If you haven’t read this article about glare, you might like it: How to Eliminate Glare That Will Help You Have a Better Life. Are you someone who suffers from headaches or ocular migraines because of glare? Then you’ll probably notice fewer headaches.

The UV Rays Stay Outside

Most people feel safe in their own homes. But UV rays are tricky; they can penetrate glass and find you where you live. To really outsmart those nasty ultraviolet rays, you need to have a secret weapon. That secret weapon is window film! You may not notice immediately, but over months and years, your skin will look better. According to the American Cancer Society, most skin cancers are a direct result of exposure to the UV rays in sunlight. Here’s their article: Does UV radiation cause cancer?

Temperatures Remain More Stable

If you’re a new homeowner, you might not notice that your temperatures remain more stable inside your home. The extremes simply go away. Thinsulate™ Insulation window film can make temperatures more stable year round–not just in the summer as some people tend to believe. For more about Thinsulate™ window film, see our previous article: How to Punch the Polar Vortex in the Nose with Window Film.

Want to Experience Window Film?

You may not know exactly what kind of window film will be right for your needs. If that sounds like you, give us a call at 415.623.8700 to discuss window film. We’d love to help you achieve your health goals!

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How to Have a Zen Experience with Window Film

August 31, 2018 by Carol S 4 Comments

Something we haven’t heard anyone talk about is how window film makes everything more…zen. Maybe it’s the lack of sensory stimulation once glare is removed. Window film makes everything quieter, which if you’re sensitive to overstimulation is a very good thing. By the way, you might enjoy our post about window film and what happens when you try it for the first time!

Block a Bad View

Having an ugly view can really mess up your day, and take away from that zen experience you’re seeking. If the first thing you see is your neighbor’s garbage can, you’ll want to pull the covers back over your head and go back to sleep. Have you read our post: Window Film Confidential: How to Create Privacy Where There is None?

Block UV Light

By now, you’ve probably heard about how much damage UV light can do to you, your family, and your furniture and belongings. You don’t have to be a museum curator to benefit from having window film to protect your belongings. If you haven’t heard about how UV light can damage your furniture, you might want to read SF Gate’s article: How to Avoid UV Light Damage to Furniture.

Protect Your Skin and Eyes

UV light damages your skin and makes you age prematurely, not to mention that UV light has been shown to cause skin cancer. And too much of it also damages your eyes. This is one reason that the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends the use of window film.

Use Your Entire Home

Have you been avoiding some part of your home because of glare or because your neighbors can see in? Here in the San Francisco Bay area, space is limited. That’s why you need to use every square inch of your space that you can. With window film, you don’t need to avoid the windows because you’re afraid the locals can see in. And that’s a very good thing.

Give Us a Call!

We’d love to provide window film for your home or office! Give us a call at 415.623.8700 when you’re ready to discuss window film. We’d love to talk to you and give you the zen experience!

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