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The Best Window Film to Block Heat and UV Rays

Last updated on August 16, 2024
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Best Window Film To Block Heat

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Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to. Learn more.

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Our Picks For The Top Window Films To Block Heat

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Product Overview
Key Takeaway
  The Best Overall

STATINT Advanced Anti UV Window Film To Block Heat, 35.4-Inch x 6.5-Feet

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STATINT

Advanced Anti UV Window Film To Block Heat, 35.4-Inch x 6.5-Feet

During the day, this unique window film to block heat creates a mirrored-effect, providing much needed privacy. It's able to block 80 percent of the sun's UV rays, keeping your home more comfortable. The roll is available in 10 different sizes, so you're sure to find one that meets your needs.

Overall Take

Multiple Color OptionsWith this window film to block heat, you'll have a choice between black, blue, brown or silver.

 Best Mirrored Film

Coavas One-Way Mirror Solar Window Film

Coavas

One-Way Mirror Solar Window Film

Make your home more energy-efficient with this heat control window film. It blocks over 90% of the sun's UV rays and reduces glare up to 68%. The window film can be reused and easily reapplied with water.

Overall Take

Reduces Your Air Conditioning BillThis Coavas window film blocks 90% of the sun's rays to keep your home cool in warm weather.

 Best Seller

Gila 3-In-1-Heat Control Window Film

Gila

3-In-1-Heat Control Window Film

This window film is almost transparent and invisible, but it provides comfort and efficiency. It keeps interiors cooler by blocking out solar energy and reducing glare. Plus, you can also protect your furniture, draperies and floors from fading.

Overall Take

Best Optical ClarityThis Gila window film is nearly invisible, so you won’t even remember it’s there.

  The Best Value

Volcanics Energy Efficient Rainbow Window Film To Block Heat, 17.5×78.7-Inch

Volcanics

Energy Efficient Rainbow Window Film To Block Heat, 17.5x78.7-Inch

This window film to block heat is not only energy efficient, but it's also quite decorative. It features a soft rainbow pattern that appears like stained glass. Since it works using static cling, you'll find installation is a breeze and doesn't require any glue.

Overall Take

Budget-Friendly PickYou'll love the affordable price tag on this window film to block heat.

Buying Guide

Blocking the amount of sun that shines into your apartment or home can help a lot with your electricity bill. On warmer days, it is important to look into options that will help you reduce heat and stay cooler.

With heat-blocking window films, you can stop heat in its tracks. Films come in all shapes and sizes, so you should have no problem finding the right fit for you. The right fit is important because you want the film to cover your window completely for the best results.

Films add comfort and efficiency to your home. They reject solar energy, reduce glare and make your interior cooler. They also block UV rays, helping you and your furniture stay safe and in good condition. A great option would be the Gila heat control three-in-one window film.

You should look for films that are durable and tear-resistant. They should also be easy to install and be able to firmly stick to your windows. The better it sticks, the better the protection. If you are looking for the best way to stick a film to your window, look for films that use static cling versus a film that adheres right to your window.

The adhesive usually lasts longer, but the static cling gives you more flexibility. With static cling, if you think you placed the film incorrectly, you can easily take it off and start again. With adhesive, once you place it, that is where it will stick. If you are placing a film for the first time, we suggest using a film backing with static cling first to test it out.

If you want to make it harder for people to look inside your home, consider the BDF NA05 window film. It will provide you with daytime privacy and keep the heat down. Films that provide you with extra privacy are great for homes that are close together, or if you live in a first-floor apartment.

MORE: The Best Privacy Window Film

You may also be looking for films that are easy to see through. Just because you want to block out heat, might not mean you want to block out light. Another thing to look for is how reflective the film is. This is all personal preference.

What to Look For

  • Pay attention to how much heat and light a film will block. There are variations and one might fit your needs better.
  • Think about where in your house you need the most protection. You might not need to place films all over the house, but just in certain areas that are most affected.
  • Do not forget about your skylights. These have direct sun hitting them and may be the cause of a warmer home.
  • Read up on the instructions. If you have an adhesive backing, you want to make sure you get it right the first time.
  • Films also come in different colors and designs. You can even make your windows look like stained glass if you want to. There are options ranging from super simple to more elaborate.
  • Ask for help if you need it no matter how easy you think the installation process will be. You might want an extra person there to help you place the film and smooth it out so there are no bubbles.
  • If you are looking for films for something other than glass, look for films that feature multi-surface adhesion.
  • The longer a film’s warranty, the better it might hold up. Look for films that are warrantied against bubbling, cracking and fading.
  • Films can be left up in all seasons, so do not think you have to take them down once summer is over.

More to Explore

If you’re looking for other ways to reduce the heat coming into your home and patio during the summer months, check out our recommendations for the best insulated curtains and the best sun shade sails.

 

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