Window film is often misunderstood, leading to myths that can make homeowners and business owners hesitant to invest in these innovative products. At Maritime Window Film Specialists, we’ve been in the industry for over 40 years, and we’ve heard it all—from concerns about aesthetics to doubts about effectiveness.
In this blog, we’ll debunk the most common myths about window film and show you why it’s a smart investment for your home or business.
Myth #1: Window Film Has Been Surpassed by Window Tint
The Truth: In recent years, you might have heard less about window film and more about window tint, so you may have fallen for this myth. The truth is that they are the same product! When we started over 40 years ago, the term "window film" was almost universally used, which is why it’s part of our name. Over time, "window tint" became a popular term, especially in the automotive industry, but it has now crossed over to include home and business window films, too.
The bottom line is that they are interchangeable terms that refer to the same high-quality product we offer today. Whether you call it window film or window tint, it can provide the same benefits: UV protection, glare reduction, energy efficiency, and privacy.
Myth #2: Window Film Makes Your Windows Look Ugly
Some people worry that window film will ruin the appearance of their windows, making them look dark, reflective, or outdated.
The Truth: Modern window films are designed to enhance the aesthetics of your home or business, not detract from them. You can choose from a variety of options, including nearly invisible films that maintain the natural look of your windows. Decorative films can even add a stylish touch with frosted or patterned designs that elevate your space and customize your glass. Whether you want a subtle finish or a bold statement, there’s a window film to suit your style.
Myth #3: Window Film Isn’t Effective
A common misconception is that window film doesn’t actually work to block UV rays or moderate temperatures.
The Truth: High-quality window films are incredibly effective. They block up to 99% of harmful UV rays and can significantly reduce heat gain in the summer. This makes your home or office more comfortable year-round while lowering air conditioning costs. Our films allow natural light to pass through while blocking heat and UV radiation, ensuring you get the best of both worlds.
Myth #4: Window Film Makes Your Windows Too Dark
Many people associate window tint with dark, heavily shaded windows that block out natural light, like cars with blackout window tint.
The Truth: While darker tints are available for those who want added privacy or a specific aesthetic, most window films are designed to let in plenty of natural light. Most of our films maintain high levels of visibility and light transmission while still providing UV and heat protection. You can enjoy a bright, welcoming space without the harsh glare or heat.
Myth #5: Window Film Is Only for Cars
When people hear "window tint," they often think of car windows, leading to the misconception that window film is only useful for vehicles.
The Truth: While window tint was traditionally the popular term for cars, window film has always been widely used in homes and businesses as well. Residential and commercial window films offer benefits like UV protection, glare reduction, privacy, and even decorative enhancements. Whether you’re protecting your family at home or creating a more comfortable office environment, window film is a versatile solution for any space, not just your vehicle.
Myth #6: Window Film Is Difficult to Maintain
Another common concern is that window film will make cleaning your windows more difficult or require special maintenance.
The Truth: Window film is easy to maintain and doesn’t require any special cleaning products. Simply use a soft cloth or sponge with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner to keep your windows looking great. Avoid harsh chemicals or sharp tools, and your window film will stay in excellent condition for years.
Myth #7: Window Film Is Too Expensive
Some homeowners and business owners assume that window film is a luxury they can’t afford.
The Truth: Window film is a cost-effective investment that pays for itself over time. By reducing air conditioning costs, protecting your furnishings from fading, prolonging the life of your windows and improving comfort, window film can save you money in the long run. Plus, installation is bespoke. If you want window film for a particular room but don’t have the budget for the whole house, keep it localized – we can fit window film to any window, skylight and most glass doors, one room at a time, so you can start benefitting where you need it most today.
Myth #8: Window Film Will Kill Your Plants
A surprising myth is that window film will block so much light that your indoor plants won’t survive. While it won’t concern everybody, those with a green thumb have raised it with us over the years.
The Truth: Window film allows plenty of natural light to pass through, which is essential for plant growth. In fact, by reducing the intensity of direct sunlight, window film can prevent plants from overheating or drying out, creating a more stable environment for them to thrive. Couple that with more moderate temperatures, and it could be just what your plants need to flourish indoors.
Myth #9: Window Film Makes Windows Unbreakable
Some people mistakenly believe that security window film or tint will make their windows completely shatterproof.
The Truth: While window film doesn’t make glass unbreakable, it does add an extremely tough extra layer of protection. Safety and security films are designed to hold shattered glass together, reducing the risk of injury and making it much harder for intruders to gain access. This makes window film an excellent choice for homes and businesses looking to enhance security or for those with young children and concerns about breaking glass.
Why Choose Maritime Window Film Specialists?
At Maritime Window Film Specialists, we’ve been helping homeowners and businesses across Atlantic Canada protect their spaces for over 40 years. With offices in Moncton and Halifax, we’re proud to offer high-quality window film and tint solutions across Atlantic Canada to suit every home and business.
Whether you’re looking to reduce glare, protect your family from UV rays, or enhance your home’s security, we have the perfect solution for you.
We’ve debunked the myths, so don’t let them hold you back from enjoying the benefits of window film. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services, or download our brochure below to read more.
Think window film; think Maritime Window Film Specialists.
