Solar control films are the best solution for protecting your home or office from excessive sunlight, heat, and UV radiation. They also offer privacy and a stylish appearance. Sun exposure can lead to uncomfortably hot rooms, damage to furnishings (furniture, carpets, electronics, etc.), and significantly increase cooling costs. If you’ve decided to cover your windows with solar control film, you might face the choice: should you install the film yourself or hire a professional installer? In this blog post, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of both options to help you make an informed decision.

DIY Installation 💪

Advantages:

• Cost Savings: The main advantage of DIY installation is the cost savings, as you won’t need to pay for labor. Additionally, the cost of professional installation can increase quickly depending on the complexity and location of the work.
• Immediate Satisfaction: If you’re a fan of DIY projects, installing the film yourself can provide a sense of satisfaction and achievement, as well as the opportunity to learn new skills and enjoy the results right away.
• Flexibility: You can install the films at your own pace and schedule, without having to coordinate with an installer’s timetable. This means you can complete the job at your convenience.

Challenges:

• Installation Complexity: Installing solar control films requires precision and skill. Incorrect installation can result in bubbles, wrinkles, and cuts, which significantly affect both the appearance and functionality of the film. Achieving a smooth, professional finish requires experience and skill.
• Time-Consuming: If you lack prior experience, installation might take more time and patience than expected. Preparing the surface, measuring, and accurately cutting the film can be time-intensive.
• Specialized Tools: High-quality installation requires specialized tools like film cutters, scrapers, and sprayers. You may also need a lift or other similar equipment, which involves additional rental costs and logistical challenges.

Professional Installation 🛠️

Advantages:

• Quality Workmanship: Professionals have the necessary skills and experience to ensure a flawless installation. This means your windows will look smooth and bubble-free, maximizing the film’s effectiveness in solar protection and heat rejection. Most importantly, professional installation ensures the film’s longevity on the glass surfaces.
• Time and Convenience: Hiring a professional saves you time and effort. The installation process is typically quick and precise, and you won’t need to worry about the details.
  Warranty: Professional installation companies offer warranties on their work, ensuring that any issues are resolved promptly and usually at no extra cost, providing peace of mind.

Disadvantages:

• Costs: Professional installation is generally more expensive than the DIY approach. The cost of the service depends on the scope of the work and location, and it can vary based on the installer’s experience.
• Scheduling: Hiring a professional may require scheduling and adapting to the installer’s availability. This means coordinating a convenient time for the installation, which might not always align with your schedule.

Which Option Is Best for You?

The final decision depends on your budget, time, and willingness to take on the installation yourself. If you’re confident in your skills and want to save money, DIY installation can sometimes be a good choice. However, if you’re unsure of your abilities, attempting a DIY installation to save money could backfire, leading to poor results and potentially higher costs due to mistakes (e.g., incorrect film selection, poor quality installation, etc.). If you prefer peace of mind and a high-quality result, hiring a professional installer is an investment that usually pays off in the long run.

The Mirlex team is always ready to advise and help you find the best solution for installing solar control films. We offer top-quality installation services (with a 10-year warranty) and a wide selection of the highest quality solar control films to ensure comfort and protection in your home or office. If you have any questions or would like a quote, don’t hesitate to contact us!

27.05.2024