Window Film Comparisons and Types
When the window film salesperson visits your house, make sure you have a clear head. This subject can get complicated in a hurry. You will hear terms like neutrals, dual reflectives, Low-E, spectrally selective, clear or dyed non-reflective, etc. These are all descriptive terms that tell what a window film can or can't do.
The least complicated window film is one that is a Clear or Dyed / Non Reflective. The clear films in this category are commonly used for just safety, security or modest fade control. If you desire some glare control on the glass or privacy, then you will use a dyed product. Because they do not have a metallic component they are non-reflective - meaning they reflect little solar energy.
The next group of window film incorporates an additional layer of polyester film that contains a special metallic reflective coating. These films are either available in Clear or Dyed Reflective. The metallic surface needs the additional layer of polyester film so that it is not exposed to corrosive liquids or vapors in the atmosphere in and around the glass.
The films in this group that are sold or represented as clear actually appear to have a silver, bronze, or gray tint. This coloration is created by the ultra-thin layer of metal that is being used to reflect the solar radiation. If you choose a dyed reflective film, the polyester film closest to the glass is dyed to the color you choose.