7 Ways to Protect Your Property from Low-E Window Reflections

As a homeowner, you take pride in maintaining a beautiful yard.

You likely invested in top-notch artificial turf—or tough vinyl siding or stylish outdoor furniture. But, you may have noticed an alarming issue. Your fake grass is melting. Your siding is warping. And your furniture is scorching. The culprit behind this damage may surprise you – it's your energy-efficient windows. Low-E windows, designed to reduce heat, might be causing the damage. This article'll delve into the causes and provide a reliable solution to protect your home.

Sunlight Window Reflections off low E glass is the issue you didn't realize you had

Solution:

Apply Anti Reflective Window film by Reflect Defense. The film is simple. It's a sticky back window film that stops reflections.

Get Solar Screens

Outside the window frame, window cleaning or screening companies attach solar screens. They also stop harsh window reflections.

Replace your windows

I know, "This is out of the question," but it is a viable option.

Plan

If you plan to install artificial turf, make a plan. Avoid areas that may get window reflections. If the new siding is a home improvement project coming soon, meet with your installer and plan to install carbon fiber siding in the affected areas. It is more heat resistant.

Understanding the Melting Turf Phenomenon

As a homeowner myself, the thought of getting artificial turf initially gave me a sense that it would be easier to manage, and of course, it's natural to assume it would come with long-term benefits, like no more water bills.

However, as a window film installer and expert, I was shocked to see the damage caused by ever-increasing temperatures combined with higher-performance windows being pumped out by glass manufacturers like Milgard, Allen, Pella, and many more.

The adoption of Title 24 Energy Standards has forced glass manufacturers to produce higher-performing glass windows, furthering this problem. These standards aim to improve energy efficiency in homes and commercial buildings.

While low-E windows reduce heat transfer well and cut energy costs, they have created a new challenge for homeowners. This has led to melting turf, warped siding, damaged pool covers, destroyed patio furniture, kids left standing around without a trampoline to enjoy, and even caused fires.

Identifying the Culprits: Windows That Cause Damage

So, to shoot it to you straight, low-E glass is the number one cause of melting turf. But wait, there's more. Low-E windows are also warping siding and destroying patio furniture.

Why, you ask? It's actually pretty simple. This type of glass has a special coating on the inside of the outer panel that stops heat from coming in. The coating is usually green or purple and reduces the amount of infrared light that passes through the glass.

Note: the coating is virtually invisible when looking at it straight on, but if you stand to the side at a 45-degree angle, you can see the iridescence and color of either green or purple.

It's important to understand that low-E windows are not all equal. Some are passive, and others are not.

What the difference:

In winter climate zones, passive low E glass is found. In warmer climate zones, you find non-passive Low-E glass.

What does this all mean?

Passive Low-E windows are often found in winter climate zones. These windows allow heat to actually enter the home, which is especially important in winter climate zones to mitigate the amount of usage of the furnace, fireplace, or central heating and air system.

Whereas non-passive low is typically found in warmer climate zones. This is typically found in the Sunbelt, including states like southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Florida, and so on and so forth.

Does this make a difference, and does it mean that you need window film, solar screens, or anything else to prevent your turf from melting, or are you safe? These are all important questions; however, without a proper meter to identify the type of glass, it's kind of like a crapshoot, so just because the glass is purple or green doesn't necessarily mean you're safe.

Window tinting companies and glazing companies often use tools like glass meters to identify the specific type of coating. This is to ensure the proper installation of a window film or the proper glass for replacement in case one gets broken, etc.

Window film companies like 3m, which is now Avery Dennison, have all claimed to have a product to prevent artificial turf, siding, patio furniture, etc., from melting; however, without clearly identifying the type of glass, it's nearly impossible to say that there's one solution that works 100% of the time. This is because most window tinting companies specifically install whatever the manufacturer reposts, which will work best, but they are not necessarily saying it's 100% guaranteed to work.

The process is simple: limit liability because we just don't know quite yet. I know not what you wanna hear, but it's true.

Many window tinting companies install different types of films with the hope that they'll work based on the recommendation from the manufacturer's rep.

This doesn't necessarily mean that the film is not going to work. It's only 100% guaranteed to work if you identify the glass. With all that being said, applying a solar control window designed to exacerbate the amount of reflected infrared invisible light is counterintuitive. Essentially, I think it's dumb.

So you're probably thinking, I'm just trying to sell a product, and while it's true, we offer a solution that's 100% guaranteed to work, so yes, we are, and yes, we have a solution, so it's a win-win.

Introducing the Turf-Saving Window Treatment

We have a new solution to fix the problem of melting turf and other damage from Low-E window reflections. It is the Turf-Saving Window Treatment. This innovative product is a perforated window film designed to reduce the harm of strong sunlight.

Reflect Defense Window Treatment works by bending light across the glass. This disperses the strong reflections that cause damage. It protects your artificial turf, vinyl siding, and outdoor furniture. It shields them from the intense heat made by Low-E windows. It does this by removing harsh reflections. The film has a perforated design. It allows natural light to pass through. It keeps your view and reduces glare.

Additionally to its protective properties, the Turf Protection Window Treatment offers several other benefits. It blocks up to 70% of the heat, which helps to stop fading and damage to outdoor things. The film also reduces glare, making your outdoor space more comfortable and enjoyable. Also, it can help control indoor temperatures. This cuts heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter, leading to energy savings.

Choosing the Right Turf-Saving Window Film

You have three options when selecting the Turf-Saving Window Treatment for your home. Each has its unique features and benefits:

Clear Turf-Saving Window Film

Clear Turf-Saving Window Film is ideal for homeowners. They want to end damage from Low-E window reflections. But, they want to keep the look of their windows. The clear film is invisible from the outside. This makes it an excellent choice for homes with strict HOA rules. It's also easy to install and maintains a clear view from the inside. But, the clear film may cause a blurry view. It also does not provide privacy.

White Turf-Saving Window Film

White Turf-Saving Window Film is a great choice. It is more noticeable and offers better inside visibility. This option provides a clear view from inside your home. It does this while still dispersing harmful reflections. The white film also offers excellent UV protection and glare reduction. Remember that the white color will show on the outside of your windows. It does not give privacy at night.

The Black Turf-Saving Window Film

The Black Turf-Saving Window Film is for homeowners. They seek the best looks and performance. It is the top choice. This option offers a sleek, modern look that complements various architectural styles. The black film provides clear views from the inside. It keeps its protective properties against UV rays and glare. It also resembles the appearance of window screens, integrating with your home's exterior. But, it's important to consider that the black film will look like a screen from the outside.

DIY Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide

Installing the Turf-Saving Window Treatment is simple. Most homeowners can do it with a few basic tools and patience. Before beginning the installation, ensure that your windows are clean and dry. Remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the glass surface to ensure proper adhesion of the film.

Once your windows are ready, unroll the Turf-Saving Window Film. Then, measure it to fit your window. Cut the film to size, leaving a slight overlap for trimming later. Reflect Defense window film offers both dry application film and wet application film.

Dry application film does not need water or soap solution. Wet application film requires the same steps as standard window tinting films. It would be best if you had water and mild dish soap.

For Wet Application film

Peel back the protective liner from the film and apply it to the wet window surface. Use a squeegee to smooth out air bubbles and ensure a tight fit. Trim the excess film around the edges using a utility knife for a clean, professional look. Finally, use a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any remaining moisture or soap solution.

For Dry Application Film

Peel off the liner from the film and apply it to the top of the window frame. It should overlap the glass by one inch all around. Align the film so that it fits the glass completely. Then, secure it with a felt squeegee. Trim the excess film around the edges using a utility knife for a clean, professional look.

Following these steps will give you a smooth, bubble-free installation. It will protect your property from Low-E window reflections.

Need more help: See our how to install instructions and videos

Maintaining Your Turf-Saving Window Treatment

To ensure your Turf-Saving Window Treatment lasts and works well, you must maintain it. Regular cleaning will keep the film looking its best. It will also prevent any buildup of dirt or debris. That buildup could hurt its performance and longevity.

Use a soft, damp cloth or sponge to clean your Turf-Saving Window Film. Use a mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution. Wipe the surface of the film, taking care not to press too hard or scrape it. Don't use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or sharp objects. They could scratch or damage the film.

Inspect Reflect Defense Window Treatment for wear and tear. Look for peeling edges, cracks, or bubbling. If you notice any damage, it may be time to replace the film to ensure optimal protection for your property. Most manufacturers design Reflection Protection Window Treatments to last for several years. This is with proper care and upkeep.

Safeguarding Your Investment

The Turf-Saving Window Treatment is a smart choice for homeowners. It protects artificial turf, vinyl siding, and outdoor furniture. The reflections of Low-E windows harm them. Install this new solution. It will keep your outdoor space beautiful and usable. It will also help you avoid costly repairs and replacements.

It has protective benefits, but the Turf-Saving Window Treatment also improves your home's comfort and beauty. It reduces glare and regulates indoor temperatures, making the living environment more enjoyable. It also offers a sleek, modern look that complements various architectural styles.

Choose the Reflect Defense Window Film. You can trust that a reliable warranty will back up your investment. The manufacturer stands behind the quality and performance of their product. They ensure that you receive the best protection for your home.

Don't let Low-E window reflections ruin your curated outdoor oasis. Take action today and safeguard your property with the Turf-Saving Window Treatment. It has advanced tech. It is easy to install and long-lasting. This new solution is best for homeowners who value function and style. Protect your artificial turf, siding, and furniture. The treatment enhances your home. Invest in the Turf Defense Window Treatment now.