Window films are a practical solution for heat reduction in homes and offices, particularly during the UK’s increasingly warm summers. They help to keep indoor spaces comfortable by reducing the amount of heat and glare entering through windows. Not only can window films improve energy efficiency and reduce the need for air conditioning, but they can also provide additional privacy and protect against UV rays. On top of that, they are a cost-effective alternative to installing double glazing or expensive blinds.
The best window films for heat reduction in the UK come in various styles and materials, each designed to cater to a range of needs and preferences. In general, these films consist of thin layers of polyester, coated in different tints or reflective materials such as metal or ceramics to effectively block out heat. Some films are also specifically designed to enhance UV protection while providing additional benefits like added privacy or enhanced building aesthetics.
When choosing the right window film for your specific needs, it’s critical to consider factors such as the level of heat reduction, visible light transmission, and glare reduction. Some films offer impressive heat reduction capabilities of up to 80%, while others focus more on reducing glare without significantly reducing the amount of natural light entering the space. To make an informed decision, it’s important to weigh these factors against your personal preferences, your property’s specific requirements, and the size and orientation of the windows that need treatment.
With these considerations in mind, we tested and evaluated a variety of window films on the UK market to help you find the best option for heat reduction in your home or office. Our research not only focused on functionality, but also on ease of installation, durability, and other important features. Join us as we unravel our top picks and recommendations to make your search for the perfect window film as straightforward as possible.
Best Window Films for Heat Reduction UK
We have carefully researched and compiled a list of the top window films available in the UK to help reduce heat in your home. Below, you will find our top picks, ensuring your comfort during those hot summer days.
Linarun One Way Window Film
The Linarun One Way Window Film is a great option for those looking to reduce heat and glare while maintaining privacy in their homes.
Pros
- Effective heat reduction
- Provides daytime privacy
- Energy saving benefits
Cons
- Can be tricky to install
- Adhesive may not be long-lasting
- Mirror effect reverses at night
We’ve recently tried out the Linarun One Way Window Film, and we found it quite effective in reducing heat and glare from the sun. The film’s reflective surface keeps the brightness in the room while blocking out external light. This results in energy saving benefits, as it can help lower energy costs by up to 25%. The mirror effect of the film also provides daytime privacy, making it a versatile solution for various rooms in the house.
However, we did find the installation process to be somewhat challenging. Ensuring the window surface is completely clean and free of blemishes is critical, as well as using soap and water to soak both the adhesive side and window. Despite these precautions, the film can still be tricky to apply and may require multiple attempts for a smooth and bubble-free finish.
Another downside is the film’s adhesive, which may not prove to be long-lasting. Over time, the film may start peeling or bubbling, necessitating reapplication. Finally, the mirror effect of the film reverses at night when the interior lighting is brighter than outside, reducing privacy during nighttime hours.
Overall, the Linarun One Way Window Film is a good choice for those seeking to reduce heat and glare in their homes while maintaining daytime privacy. Despite its challenges during installation and potential adhesive issues, the energy-saving features and versatile applications make it a worthwhile option.
Beautysaid One Way Window Film Privacy
This Beautysaid window film effectively reduces heat and provides daytime privacy, but may not be suitable for nighttime privacy.
Pros
- Daytime privacy protection
- Static cling installation, no glue required
- Heat control and 96% UV-ray blocking
Cons
- No privacy during nighttime
- Can be tricky to apply without creasing or stretching
- Only available in black colour
We recently tested the Beautysaid One Way Window Film and found it to be an excellent choice for those looking to reduce heat and maintain privacy during the day. The film’s reflective surface effectively blocks up to 96% of sunlight, which helps to regulate indoor temperatures during hot summer months.
Moreover, this window film uses static cling technology, so it can be easily removed and reused without leaving any residue or marks on the glass. This also makes it environmentally friendly as it eliminates the need for adhesive, and it has an impressively long service life.
However, it is crucial to note that this product does not provide privacy at night, meaning it might not be the best choice for those seeking nighttime seclusion. Furthermore, applying the film might be a bit challenging, mainly if it’s stretched or creased. It is recommended to use a lot of water to make the installation process smoother. Lastly, the sole colour option is black, which might not suit everyone’s preference.
In conclusion, the Beautysaid One Way Window Film is an excellent option for those seeking heat reduction and daytime privacy. Its easy-to-remove, reusable nature and UV-blocking features make it a great addition to any home or office. Just keep in mind its limitations when it comes to nighttime privacy and colour options.
Active Film Silver Reflective Window Film
This window film efficiently reduces heat, glare, and UV, offering privacy while enhancing your space’s comfort.
Pros
- Highly reduces solar heat, glare, and UV by over 80%
- Provides one-way vision effect under the right conditions
- Self-adhesive and easy to install with basic tools
Cons
- May require an extra pair of hands for installation
- Can leave bubbles if not installed correctly
- Privacy effect reverses at night when it is brighter inside
We recently installed the Active Film Silver Reflective Window Film in our office and noticed an instant improvement in the room’s temperature and glare reduction. The film’s one-way vision effect allows for more privacy during the day, giving us peace of mind when working by the window. Plus, the self-adhesive nature of the film made the installation process relatively simple, requiring only basic tools.
However, we must admit that installing the film can be challenging for some, as it’s often easier with an extra pair of hands to help. It’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully to avoid bubbles appearing after the film dries. Just know that during the night, when it’s brighter inside, the one-way vision effect reverses, allowing people outside to see in.
Overall, the Active Film Silver Reflective Window Film is an excellent choice for reducing heat, glare, and UV in your space while adding daytime privacy. Just ensure proper installation to get the most out of this quality product.
rabbitgoo One Way Window Film Privacy
A practical option for heat reduction and privacy, though installation can be slightly challenging.
Pros
- Effective heat control and energy saving
- UV rejection and anti-glare properties
- Daytime privacy protection
Cons
- Not suitable for double-glazed windows exposed to extended sunlight
- Installation can be challenging
- Curtains needed at night for privacy
We recently used the rabbitgoo One Way Window Film Privacy and found it a useful solution for heat reduction and privacy in our home. The film’s reflective surface not only reduces the amount of heat transmitted through the window glass, but also creates a mirror effect during the day, ensuring privacy while still offering a clear one-way view.
The anti-glare and UV rejection properties of the film were definitely appealing to us. Not only does it block out 85% of infrared rays and 99% of UV rays to protect our skin and keep indoor furnishings from fading, it also creates a comfortable environment by filtering the light entering the room. However, we recommend caution when considering this film for double-glazed windows exposed to extended sunlight, as it may cause the glass to crack due to trapped heat.
Installation was a bit challenging, and a lot of water should be sprayed on the adhesive side and the clean glass surface when applying. Patience and practice are crucial to avoid bubbles and achieve a smooth finish. One more thing to note is that the film’s mirror effect is reversed at night, meaning curtains or blinds would be necessary for privacy during the darker hours.
In conclusion, the rabbitgoo One Way Window Film Privacy is an effective solution for heat reduction and daytime privacy protection, making it suitable for a variety of settings. Just keep in mind the potential difficulties during installation and the need for curtains or blinds at night to retain privacy.
KEFU01 Double Aluminium Bubble Insulation Window Film
Get the best window film for heat reduction and privacy in the UK with KEFU01 Double Aluminium Bubble Insulation Window Film.
Pros
- Blocks 99% of UV rays
- Excellent privacy protection
- Heat insulation for temperature control
Cons
- May require custom sizing
- Adhesive-free installation relies on suction cups
- Thicker than other films on the market (3mm)
KEFU01 Double Aluminium Bubble Insulation Window Film offers a high-quality solution for those looking to effectively reduce heat and create privacy in their homes. This double aluminium foil and polyethylene bubble film material effectively blocks various heat sources in sunlight, making it an ideal option for reducing energy costs and maintaining comfortable interior temperatures.
In addition to its excellent thermal control, KEFU01 provides exceptional privacy protection by turning see-through glass into privacy glass. With its ability to block 99% of UV rays, the film also protects your furniture from ageing and your skin from sunburn. The film is adhesive-free, using strong suction cups included in the package for easy installation and removal. It can be easily disassembled when not in use and rolled up for storage.
One thing to note is that the film may require custom sizing for some windows. If you don’t find the size you want on the list, you can order the closest size, then email the seller the size you need (WxH), and they’ll arrange it for you. Be prepared to take a few extra steps for that perfect fit.
Overall, KEFU01 Double Aluminium Bubble Insulation Window Film is an effective, budget-friendly choice for those seeking heat reduction and privacy benefits. Its UV protection, temperature control, and simple installation make it a great addition to any home.
Arthome Heat Blocking Window Film Kit
This heat blocking window film is a practical addition to your home or office windows providing UV protection, heat control, and daytime privacy.
Pros
- Effective heat control and energy saving
- Blocks out UV rays and reduces glare
- Provides daytime privacy with a mirror effect
Cons
- May be tricky to apply for some users
- Mirror effect reverses at night when indoor light is stronger
- May not significantly impact room temperature for some
We recently installed the Arthome Heat Blocking Window Film in our south-facing office and noticed an immediate difference in temperature regulation. The film was a bit challenging to apply, but by following the instructions carefully and keeping the adhesive side and window wet, we managed to get a perfect fit. The mirror effect during daytime offers privacy, making it an ideal solution for workspaces.
The UV-blocking feature of this film is impressive too, as it blocks out a significant amount of harmful rays, protecting our furnishings from fading and reducing glare on our computer screens. However, it’s important to note that during nighttime, when the indoor light is stronger than the outdoor light, the mirror effect reverses, making it slightly less effective for privacy during those hours. Keeping blinds or curtains closed at night can mitigate this issue.
While the film has contributed to lower heat levels and glare reduction in our office, it may not have a significant impact on room temperature for everyone. Factors such as window size, exposure, and room insulation can affect the performance of the film. Despite this, we believe that the Arthome Heat Blocking Window Film is a valuable addition to any home or office with heat and glare issues – just remember to carefully follow the installation instructions and consider closing your blinds or curtains at night when necessary.
ConCus-T One Way Window Film
This window film effectively reduces heat and provides privacy, although application can be slightly tricky.
Pros
- Excellent heat insulation
- One-way privacy feature
- Static cling design without glue
Cons
- Might be difficult to apply smoothly
- Aesthetically darkens room
- Bubbles may appear during application
We recently used the ConCus-T One Way Window Film, and we were pleased with the heat reduction and privacy it provided. The film’s heat insulation effectively blocked the sun’s harsh rays, keeping our room cool during hot summer days while reducing energy costs for air conditioning and heating. Additionally, we appreciated the one-way reflective feature, which offered privacy during daylight hours without compromising our view outside.
The film’s static cling design allowed for a glue-free application, which made it easy to relocate and reuse. However, we did find it slightly difficult to apply the film smoothly on the glass, especially when it came to removing bubbles. Using a credit card or a similar tool might help in this regard, but patience and precision are certainly needed.
While the film serves its purpose in heat reduction and privacy, it does darken the room significantly, which might not be appealing to everyone. The light coming through the windows appears drab, creating a somewhat gloomy atmosphere. If you’re willing to compromise on natural light for the sake of heat insulation and privacy, the ConCus-T One Way Window Film is a suitable choice.
In summary, ConCus-T One Way Window Film is a practical solution for those looking to reduce heat and improve privacy in their homes. However, be prepared for a slightly challenging application process, and be mindful of the darker appearance it brings to rooms.
Kefu01 Heat Reflective Window Film
This Kefu01 Heat Reflective Window Film excels in privacy and heat reduction for your UK home while being easy to install and reusable.
Pros
- Effective heat reduction and insulation
- Strong privacy protection
- Easy to install and reusable
Cons
- May not fully cool large spaces
- Long delivery time
- Mild learning curve for installation
The Kefu01 Heat Reflective Window Film is an insulating sunscreen aluminium foil window film that significantly controls heat and reduces glare. It acts as a radiant barrier and privacy barrier, which we appreciated in our testing. We noticed our skin and eyes felt safer from sun damage, and our furniture didn’t fade or age due to sunlight exposure.
The film’s opaque design provided a high level of privacy protection, making us feel more comfortable and secure in our own homes. Day or night, neighbours couldn’t spy on us, making this film especially useful for those who value complete privacy.
With an 8mm thickness, this thermal control window film does an excellent job of controlling heat by blocking outdoor heat in the summer and keeping in warmth during winter. This leads to a more comfortable environment and lowers energy costs. During our usage, we found the film’s noise reduction capabilities to be a helpful bonus, particularly in garages or boat awnings.
The suction cup installation made installing and removing the film quite simple. However, we noticed that, for larger spaces, it might not be the only solution for cooling. Moreover, the delivery time from China to the UK was quite long, and there was a mild learning curve when it came to properly install the film.
Overall, the Kefu01 Heat Reflective Window Film is an excellent choice for privacy and heat reduction. Its simple installation and reusability make it a great addition to any UK home, but be prepared for a longer wait time and slight learning curve.
KEFU01 Sun Room Heat Reflective Window Film
We highly recommend the KEFU01 Sun Room Heat Reflective Window Film for its excellent heat reduction and privacy features.
Pros
- Excellent heat insulation and sun protection
- 100% privacy and blackout
- Reusable and easy to install with suction cup design
Cons
- Only adheres to smooth, texture-free glass
- Requires clean window surface prior to installation
- Custom sizing may need to be arranged via email
We recently installed the KEFU01 Heat Reflective Window Film in our home office to block out unwanted sunlight and glare. The installation process was straightforward with the suction cup design, which left no residue and can be easily repositioned or reused. It’s worth noting that it adheres best to clean, smooth glass surfaces for optimal performance.
The heat insulation and sun protection of this window film exceeded our expectations. The double-sided aluminium foil and pearl cotton interlayer managed to retain heat during the cold months and keep our room cool during hot weather, potentially saving us money on energy bills in the long run.
In addition to its thermal efficiency, the film provided complete privacy and blackout, perfect for our day-sleeping baby. We no longer have to worry about prying eyes or being exposed to harsh sunlight during the day. However, if you need to apply the film to sliding windows or frosted glass, you’ll have to contact the seller for a no-trace adhesive installation.
Overall, the KEFU01 Sun Room Heat Reflective Window Film is an excellent investment for anyone looking to improve their room’s heat insulation, reduce sun exposure, and enhance privacy while maintaining a stylish appearance.
rabbitgoo Window Film Privacy Film for Glass Windows
We highly recommend the rabbitgoo Window Film for those seeking a balance of privacy and natural light while keeping their homes comfortable.
Pros
- Excellent privacy protection
- Allows natural light in
- Easy installation and removal
Cons
- May have small air bubbles
- Cutting to size can be tricky
- Not very transparent
The rabbitgoo Window Film is a great solution for anyone looking to maintain privacy without sacrificing light in their homes. We’ve found that this film effectively prevents onlookers from peeking in while allowing enough sunlight to keep the room bright.
We were particularly impressed with how easy it was to install the rabbitgoo film. With its static cling technology, there’s no need for toxic chemical adhesives. It can be simply removed and reused without damaging your windows, making it great for renters.
One minor issue we encountered while applying the film was that small air bubbles might appear. However, with patience and proper application techniques, these bubbles can be reduced. Cutting the film to the correct size and shape can be a bit challenging, but practising with a few pieces might help you get the hang of it.
Overall, the rabbitgoo Window Film is a versatile and user-friendly product, offering additional benefits such as heat reduction and UV protection. With its easy installation and removal, we believe it’s an ideal choice for those searching for the best heat reduction window film in the UK.
Buying Guide
As we explore the various window film options for heat reduction, there are several factors to consider to ensure we select the best product for our needs. This buying guide will cover the essentials for choosing the right window film without delving into specific brands or products, and will maintain a tone that is confident, knowledgeable, neutral, and clear, using the first person plural point of view.
Key Features to Consider
To make an informed decision, we should examine the following features when selecting a window film:
UV Blocking: Ideally, the window film should block out a high percentage of harmful UV rays, which are responsible for both heat gain and fading in our homes.
Visible Light Transmission (VLT): A lower VLT means less visible light passes through the window film, resulting in a darker tint. It may be preferable to find a balance between heat reduction and natural light, depending on our requirements.
Energy Efficiency: Some window films can help save energy by reducing the amount of heat that enters our home, which ultimately reduces the demand for air conditioning.
Glare Reduction: A good window film should reduce glare, making it more comfortable for us to work or relax near windows, especially during sunny days.
Types of Window Films
Understanding the different types of window films on the market can help us find the right one for our needs:
Dyed Window Film: This type offers basic heat and UV protection, but may be less effective than other options at reducing heat. It’s generally more affordable and has a dark appearance.
Metalized Window Film: A step up from dyed films, metalized films contain tiny metallic particles that both reflect and absorb heat. They often provide increased durability and scratch resistance.
Ceramic Window Film: One of the top options for heat reduction, ceramic films use a non-metallic compound that effectively blocks heat and UV rays without affecting visibility or signal interference.
Installation Process
Finally, we should consider the installation process. Some window films can be installed by skilled DIYers, while others may require professional installation. It’s crucial to take our skill level into account and follow manufacturer instructions carefully to ensure the window film is applied correctly and without air bubbles or creases that could impact its performance.
By considering these factors and using this buying guide, we will be well-equipped to make the best decision when choosing a window film for heat reduction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most effective thermal window film in the UK?
There are several high-quality thermal window films available in the UK, but the most effective ones tend to be those with a high percentage of infrared heat rejection and UV reduction. Brands like 3M, Solartek and Suntek are well-known for their heat reduction capabilities. We recommend checking their product range and selecting the one that best suits your needs and requirements.
How does heat control window film work?
Heat control window films work by reflecting or absorbing a portion of the incoming solar energy, which includes heat, UV, and light. These films consist of a thin layer of metal or ceramic particles that help block out the heat while letting in visible light. By doing so, they reduce heat gain within a space, making it more comfortable and energy-efficient.
Which window film offers the best privacy and heat reduction?
Window films that offer the best privacy and heat reduction are usually those with a higher reflective or tint property. For instance, dual-reflective window films provide excellent heat rejection and privacy without compromising daylight. Similarly, blackout or one-way mirror films can also be effective in delivering privacy along with heat reduction.
Do DIY heat reflective films perform well?
While DIY heat reflective films can offer some level of heat reduction, they may not perform as effectively as professionally installed films due to inconsistencies in the application process and the quality of the film. That being said, if you carefully follow the installation guidelines and choose a reliable product, DIY window films can still provide a satisfactory result.
How do car window tints reduce heat?
Car window tints reduce heat by helping block out solar energy, comprising heat and UV radiation. These tints consist of either a dyed or metallic film that when applied to the car glass, reduces the amount of heat entering the vehicle. High-quality tints can prevent up to 65% of the solar heat, making the car’s interior more comfortable and reducing the reliance on air conditioning.
What is the role of 3M Window Film in heat blocking?
3M Window Films are designed to reduce heat by reflecting or absorbing solar energy, thus preventing it from entering your space. These films have multiple layers, including a metal or ceramic layer that helps achieve significant heat reduction. 3M offers a wide range of window films, each with varying degrees of heat blocking capabilities, catering to different needs and preferences.