As an interior designer, you recognize that windows are highly valued in architecture for several reasons. Offering expansive outdoor views and natural lighting, windows are defining features of homes and commercial spaces. However, there comes a time when privacy and respite from the sun are needed. As a result, many turn to window treatments, whether in the form of shades, drapes, or shutters. As an interior designer, you understand that window treatments can either enhance the overall aesthetic of a space or detract from it if not properly selected. With that being said, it’s important to consider all of your options before selecting a window treatment.

Window Treatments: A Popular Solution for Privacy and Sun Control

Window treatments are a popular solution for increasing privacy and blocking sunlight from entering into a space when necessary. From blinds and shades to drapes and shutters, there are a variety of options to choose from to meet interior design visions and client needs. Depending on the product that you select, window treatments can be an affordable choice that can get the job done. 

For a quick, effective solution, blinds present an affordable option for shading interiors from the sun. On the other hand, if a secondary goal is to boost a space’s aesthetics, drapes are an attractive option due to the plethora of colors, patterns, and fabrics available. Overall, shutters, blinds, and shades allow occupants to easily control the amount of sunlight in their space with a slight adjustment. While window treatments are a simple way to provide sun protection, many don’t consider the downsides of these popular products. 

How Window Treatments Actually Harm Your Space 

Window treatments, though popular, have some notable drawbacks. They can eliminate your view of the outside when shut, and they can be challenging to clean. Most importantly, they fail to address a number of window-related concerns. When the sun enters through windows, it creates heat gain that leads to uncomfortable and inconsistent temperatures inside. Although window treatments can block the sun’s visible light, they don’t really reject the sun’s infrared heat. This heat gain not only creates discomfort among occupants, but it also drives up energy bills as HVAC systems work hard to create a cooler interior. 

The sun’s heat isn’t the only factor that can cause harm. Ultraviolet rays can also enter through window panes, just like the sun’s light. UV rays can cause furnishings, floorings, and artwork to fade over time and can even harm occupants’ skin. If you’re looking to combat these issues without changing the appearance of your windows or sacrificing natural light, window treatments may not be the correct solution. A comprehensive, effective solution that allows natural light to enter your space while blocking UV rays and heat is 3M Window Film.

Why Window Film is the Better Choice

3M offers a variety of window film solutions, each with different applications to address various issues such as privacy, sun control, security, and more. Unlike window treatments, which can be bothersome to clean or dust, window film is low-maintenance. While window film can reduce irritating glare from the sun, it won’t block your view of the outside world like window treatments do. Additionally, when installed by a window film professional, the installation and removal processes are easy and fast. Most importantly, window film addresses issues that window treatments simply can’t remedy.

One of the most notable features of 3M Window Film is that it combats UV rays and infrared heat from the sun. 3M Window Films reject up to 99% of UV rays, and 3M Prestige Series Window Films specifically block 97% of infrared heat from the sun (900-1,000nm). Protect interiors and occupants from harmful UV rays and add years onto the life of furniture, artwork, and flooring. Not only does window film have the ability to reject heat in the warm summer months, but it also improves the insulation of windows to retain manmade heat in the winter. This enhanced temperature regulation improves occupants’ comfort, lowers energy bills, and adds years onto the life of HVAC systems. 

While window treatments are often the go-to solution for sun control, window film can achieve the same benefits and beyond. 3M Window Film is a comprehensive, effective, and affordable solution for comfortable interior temperatures, improved energy efficiency, and UV protection without sacrificing natural light and outdoor views.