Solar Screen vs. Window Tint: Which Is Better?

Solar Screen vs. Window Tint: Which Is Better?

According to the Department of Energy, about 76% of the sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows enters a home or business and becomes heat. This heat can lead to uncomfortable temperatures and high energy bills when attempting to reduce the heat. But there’s good news – window treatments, such as solar screens and tints, can help. While both options can be sun-blocking solutions, they differ in their effectiveness and benefits. To help you make the right decision for your home or commercial business, Solarus USA details the key differences to know.

Close-Up Look Of A Solar Screen Highlighting Its Fabric

What Are Window Tints?

Often made from a combination of polyester and other dyed, metal-coated materials, a window tint is a thin film bonded to the actual window. This diffuses UV rays from entering indoors and limits the amount of heat that is produced. Window tints can be offered in a variety of colors to match, and they might even help to reinforce the structural quality of windows, making them stronger and more capable of standing up to impact.

Where window tint lacks is their ability to be removed during cooler months. If window tint eliminates sunlight from entering the home during warm summer months, it has the same effect during colder winter months. To compensate for this, you may be forced to increase your home’s energy output in the winter. Also, window tint can cause your home or business to appear darker and less inviting by reducing the amount of light coming into your home. To aid this dilemma, you may be finding yourself turning on more lights and thus using more of your home’s energy.

What Are Solar Screens?

Solar screens, often referred to as sun shades or sunscreens, are a fabric-based, sun-blocking product, designed to elegantly block the sun’s UV rays from entering your home or outdoor living space. In most cases, solar screens are available in a wide range of colors, fabrics, and designs, allowing customers to perfectly match their screen to the home’s or business’ aesthetics.

One of the biggest advantages solar screens have over window tint is their ability to be raised and lowered. This gives the user complete control over how much light shines through and how much is blocked. Other advantages of solar screens include:

  • Furniture protection: The sun’s harsh heat and powerful rays can not only have a negative effect on your skin and your home’s utility bill, but it can cause damage to your furniture, as well. Homeowners can help protect their furniture from sun damage, such as fading and discoloration, by adding solar screens to their windows.
  • Enhance curb appeal: Given the vast amount of colors and fabrics available, solar screens can help take an otherwise mundane window and turn it into a beautiful design feature.
  • Add property value: With its many benefits such as potential energy savings, solar screens can help increase the value of your property. Many buyers view sun-blocking solutions as a desirable feature and may be willing to pay more for a home that has them already installed.

Which Is the Better Option for You?

When deciding which window covering is better for your home or business, you should keep in mind what features are important to you, such as:

Control

Control over your window covering can be a big factor when making your decision. Clients who want complete control over how much light shines through will enjoy the raising and lowering capabilities of sunscreens.

Visibility

As you decide which sun-blocking solution is correct for your home or business, visibility can play a key role. Due to its adhesive film, window tint provides dark views, whereas solar screens showcase scenic views while still reducing glare.

Maintenance

Many homeowners and business owners may be under the impression that solar screens require a fair share of maintenance. However, cleaning solar screens is very simple and easily performed.

Homeowners and commercial business owners looking for sun-shading solutions to cool down their residence or place of business can find a wide range of products at Solarus USA. Since 1981, our award-winning company has provided clients in Palm Beach, Martin, and Broward Counties in Florida with quality sun solutions, including solar screens. For more information regarding our inventory or services, please contact us today at Solarus USA.

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