With the cold weather behind us, many of us are looking forward to the warm temperatures that accompany the late spring and summer months. Spending more time outdoors and joining friends at neighborhood barbeques are on the top of everyone’s lists, but one thing that is not welcomed is the higher energy costs that it takes to cool one’s home.

The uneven glare coming in through older windows can cause hot spots and damage from UV exposure. Instead of having to replace structurally sound windows, a simple, yet cost-effective solution is to apply a thin layer of window film that will help regulate the temperatures within the home, minimize cooling costs and help make the environment more comfortable.

The International Window Film Association (IWFA), a non-profit organization, offers a free booklet on today’s advanced window films. The booklet outlines how window film can be professionally installed to bring windows that are in good condition, up to modern standards. The booklet can be downloaded at the IWFA website.

Window FilmWindow film is rated by the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council), as are new windows and doors, so homeowners and property managers can be sure of the benefits. The new booklet helps consumers understand more about how window film delivers up to seven times the energy savings per dollar spent, as compared to installing replacement windows.

“Many consumers are looking for ways to improve the curb appeal and efficiency of their homes,” said Darrell Smith, executive director of the IWFA. “Window film is a long-term and cost-effective solution for home improvement.. It can reduce energy consumption by reducing solar heat gain, reduce the homeowner’s carbon footprint and allow you to enjoy natural light without the negative impact of harsh glare and UV exposure,” he added.

Window film is a thin sheet of window coating, professionally and permanently installed, to deliver a range of high-value benefits to a smart homeowner. Introduced almost 30 years ago, window film now has been engineered using today’s advanced technology to deliver energy savings similar to low-e windows, yet at a fraction of what replacement windows cost. For single-family homes, window film installation costs can range from $3 to $11 per square foot, depending on the type of window film installed, and the process can be completed in one or two days.

Window film is available in a range of shades from clear to dark and, once installed, the energy conservation benefits are immediate. An added benefit of this hidden home-improvement solution is that many window films can qualify for “green” credits and energy rebates and are considered carbon-negative products.

Window film is a good choice when you want to enhance windows that are still functional but not up to contemporary standards. Rather than investing the energy and materials to make and deliver a new window, you can prolong the life of your existing windows by incorporating window film, thereby saving money while being environmentally conscious.

For more information on protecting a home or office from the environment, please visit the IWFA’s website. Homeowners can also go to site to locate a professional in the Scottsdale area who can conduct an energy savings audit and share window film options to best meet your needs.