The Benefits of Laminated Windows: Security, Privacy & Light Control
A home security plan starts with the windows. They’re potential entry points and portholes into house activities.
According to Forbes, 75% of all homes in the USA will experience a burglary in a 20-year span, regardless of the neighborhood.
In Los Angeles in 2023, property crimes are up 42% from two years ago. Personal theft and burglary head the list.
Like most homeowners in Los Angeles, you’re concerned. You’ve installed a home security system. You have motion detectors in the yard. You’ve exercised your Second Amendment rights. But have you laminated the windows?
What Are Laminated Windows?
Laminated windows have two or more layers of glass bonded with a durable interlayer, typically made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) resin.
This construction creates a sandwich-like structure that makes laminated windows significantly stronger and more secure than standard single-pane windows.
Benefits of Laminated Windows
- Burglar Resistance: Laminated windows are difficult to break through, even with forceful blows. The interlayer holds the shattered glass in place, preventing intruders from gaining easy access to your home.
- Impact Resistance: Laminated windows can withstand flying debris and heavy winds, helping to protect your home from damage during natural disasters.
- UV Protection: Laminated windows often have built-in UV protection. This feature helps reduce the fading of your carpet and furnishings.
- Privacy: The interlayer in laminated windows makes it difficult for outsiders to see into your home. Potential intruders can’t easily survey your home’s layout or valuable possessions.
- Sound Insulation: The layers in laminated windows create a noise barrier. This prevents outsiders from hearing what’s happening inside your home.
- Energy Efficiency: Laminated windows have excellent insulating properties that keep heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer.
- Increased Home Value: By installing laminated windows, you can improve your home’s value and potentially reduce your insurance premiums.
So now, what’s the plan? To replace all the windows in your home? That could be time-consuming and costly — you might have to take out a loan and hire a therapist to help you deal with the stress. But what if there were an alternative?
Laminate Film for Windows
Laminate film attaches to existing windows, offering some of the benefits of laminated glass.
It prevents windows from shattering, provides privacy and UV protection for your home, and is much more affordable than replacing all of your windows.
The Pros
- Cost-Effective: Applying a laminate film is cheaper than window replacement.
- Retrofitting: You can apply laminate film to existing windows.
- DIY Potential: Some laminate films are designed for easy self-installation, saving on installation costs.
The Cons
- Appearance: Laminate films may not look as seamless as integrated laminated glass and could affect the aesthetics of your windows (especially if you do the project DIY).
- Effectiveness: While laminate films improve security, they’re less effective than factory-laminated windows against extreme forces.
- Maintenance: Over time, laminate films may require maintenance or replacement.
Who Installs Laminate Film?
Let’s say you’re ready to take the plunge and laminate your house’s windows. You’ve wisely decided against doing the project DIY.
You can’t haul your house to the local tinting shop for a makeover. And the guy who tinted your ’68 Chevy Malibu doesn’t work with 6×8 picture windows.
Who does? Your friendly window treatment store! At Aero Shade Custom Window Coverings, we offer various laminate options for windows of all sizes.
We have over 50 years of experience. We have full-time installers on staff (not contractors), and guarantee a perfect fit for every window treatment we do.
Call us today for a free in-home estimate. We’re based in LA, and serve all of metropolitan Los Angeles.
Frequently Asked Questions about Laminate Film for Home Windows
Q: How does laminate film improve window security?
It reinforces the window, making it more resistant to impacts and attempts at forced entry.
Q: Is laminate film compatible with all types of windows?
Laminate film is compatible with most window types, including single-pane, double-pane, and sliding windows.
Q: How long does laminate film last on windows?
The lifespan of laminate film varies but can range from 10 to 15 years or more, depending on the quality of the film and environmental factors.
Q: Can I remove laminate film from my windows if needed?
Yes, but it may require some effort and specialized tools.
Q: Does applying laminate film affect the appearance of my windows?
Laminate film is transparent (from the inside) and minimally affects the appearance of windows, although there may be a slight sheen.
Q: Can I clean windows with laminate film as usual?
You can clean windows with laminate film as you normally would. Use gentle cleaning methods to avoid damaging the film.
Q: Does laminate film interfere with window operation?
Properly installed laminate film shouldn’t interfere with window operation.
Q: Is laminate film suitable for commercial properties as well?
Yes, laminate film can enhance security and privacy in commercial properties.
Q: Are there any maintenance requirements for laminate film on windows?
Only periodic cleaning and inspection for damage.
