Whether you own a home, a large commercial building, or a small business, you may be looking for cost-effective ways to improve your energy efficiency, security and help protect that investment. 3M window tint is an excellent way to accomplish all of those, and here we're going to cover the benefits, features, and applications of this high-quality, low-cost upgrade.

The Benefits of 3M Window Tint

There are many benefits to using a 3M window tint on your windows, including increased privacy and security, reduced heat and glare, and protection from UV rays. Let's take a closer look at each of these below.

Increased Privacy and Security

###p privacy and security seriously, and one of the weakest points in any building is the windows. It's all too easy for passers-by to look into your building. And perhaps more importantly, those windows are an easy access point for those looking to get in.

With 3M™ Safety & Security Window Film, you can go as dark or light as possible. From regular tinted film to decorative coverings, a window tint can provide the right amount of privacy for any situation.

Like with automotive window tint, the commercial and residential security film is designed to hold broken glass, making the glass much more difficult to shatter for those wanting to force entry. Even when the glass is broken, 3M tint keeps the pieces in place and provides simple, practical security.

Because it's difficult to penetrate, 3M window film can also help prevent damage and loss from natural disasters and even explosions.

Reduced Heat and Glare

Windows are a building's natural lighting source, but drawbacks like glare come with that. While this might seem like a minor inconvenience, it can quickly lead to visual fatigue, putting more strain on a person's eyes and, in turn, making the work environment much less productive. Even the lightest 3M window film will result in glare reduction.

Increased heat from the sun beating in through a non-tinted window can make an area uncomfortable and significantly impact energy costs. With the sun warming a room, controlling that climate becomes more challenging. Hot summer days result in increased use of air conditioning units and, in turn, higher energy costs.

By blocking out the sun's rays, the 3M film allows natural light in while reducing the heat that comes with it, increasing comfort.

Protection From UV Rays

The increased heat is only one of the downsides of natural lighting. Another important one is the UV rays. Intense UV rays can harm people in the building and cause damage by fading to blinds, drapes, carpets, and furniture that might be exposed.

While the damage may not be immediate, exposure over time can lead to replacing expensive furnishings and decor. 3M™ Sun Control Window Film eliminates damage caused by harmful UV rays. It helps keep the interior of your building looking new.

Features of 3M Window Tint

When shopping around for window tint, it's essential to look for certain features to ensure you get a quality product. Fortunately, 3M window film has some excellent ones that set it apart from the competition.

Non-metallized Film

A feature often overlooked when considering window tint is whether the material it is made from is metalized. Many window tints incorporate tiny metal particles, giving them a shiny reflective surface that helps protect against harmful UV rays. 

While the metallic film is highly effective in accomplishing just that, it can also pose a problem when using our everyday electronics, creating interference that affects the performance of anything from WiFi to cellular reception.

3M tints are non-metallic and use light absorption instead of reflection to reduce those rays. Therefore, they will not affect the performance of electronics.

High-Quality Materials

3M window films use nano-technology in their multilayer film, and the results are an ultra-thin coating that is strong, durable, and highly effective in reducing light pollution and harmful UV rays. 

The materials used in the window construction will vary considerably depending on the type of tint you are looking for and your budget. Still, all are produced with a quality that makes installation easy and will provide protection year after year.

Backed by a lifetime warranty, 3M is a company that stands behind all its window tinting options and the material used to manufacture them.

Advanced Adhesive Technology

3M isn't just a window tinting business. They have been producing high-quality residential and commercial adhesives for many years. Those adhesives boast both strength and gentleness that is unmatched.

That technology has been incorporated into their window tint to provide a secure hold designed to withstand even the harshest conditions and does so for years to come.

Installation Process of 3M Window Tint

One of the best reasons to choose 3M window tint is its straightforward installation process. It takes three simple steps: measure, prepare, and apply.

Measuring

The first step to installing your 3M window tint is likely the most crucial: measuring. Measure your window dimensions from gasket to gasket for the most accurate measurement. 3M tint comes packaged so that it can be cut to size directly from the box, eliminating the need to unpackage, cut and repackage the unused section. 

Begin by measuring the window width on the box and then unroll until the desired length is needed. Cutting the tint longer than required is a good idea, as it can always be trimmed after installation.

Prepare the Window Surface

A clean window is imperative when installing your window tint properly. Any residue or dirt on the window can lead to the film not adhering, leading to a frustration install and shortening the tint's life.

Thoroughly clean the window with a soap and water solution. Using a stainless steel scraper to remove stubborn imperfections on the window or a rubber squeegee would be best. Using either or both of these tools will eliminate the soapy residue often left behind by a cloth or towel.

Applying the Film

Before applying the film to the window, add a couple of masking tape pieces to each roll's end. This step will make separating the tint from its protective backing easier and help hold it in place while installing.

Before applying the tint, wet the window again. You can now place the film on the window, using the tape to hold it, and begin unrolling. Once unrolled, you can carefully slide the tint into the proper position and remove the protective liner.

Once the liner is removed, you can remove the access water using a rubber squeegee.

Ready to Start Using 3M Window Tint?

Carbon Graphics Group are 3M Certified Installers, who have been specially trained to get the job done right - every time! If you want to know more about 3M Window Tint or are ready to get started, contact us at our Calgary or Edmonton offices today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 3M window tint easy to maintain?

Yes, once installed, 3M window tint can be cleaned and maintained like untreated windows.

How long does a 3M window tint last?

3M window tint is backed by a lifetime warranty designed to last the window's life.

Can 3M tint be removed easily?

Yes, using a portable steamer or heat gun, the adhesive can be heated up, and the tint can be easily removed.

Is 3M window tint available in different shades?

Yes. From nearly invisible to dark privacy, 3M window tint is available in a wide range of shades.

Can 3M window tint be applied to curved windows?

While we primarily provide flat glass installations for commercial and residential buildings, 3M window tint is available for curved glass applications such as vehicles. Be sure to get the right film for your specific type of application.