Removable window tint for hot desert area?
Hello, I live in the southwestern USA where it is really hot & dry most of the year (summers can go up to 115-120F). I work from home so the A/C is pretty much on 24/7 from the months of April - early November. I want to get my windows tinted to reduce A/C…
Hello, I live in the southwestern USA where it is really hot & dry most of the year (summers can go up to 115-120F). I work from home so the A/C is pretty much on 24/7 from the months of April - early November. I want to get my windows tinted to reduce A/C costs, but cannot pursue a permanent option. Right now my WFH day setup is weird because I have the A/C set to 78, blackout curtains drawn so there's no natural light, and 2 LED light bulbs on (desk lamp). I really like natural light but it just heats up my house way too quickly. Home Depot sells a removable window tint called Gila that I am looking into, but would like to ask this subreddit for other recommendations. Thank you!
Collected discussion
The static cling Gila Film is excellent. Goes on quickly and easily. Comes off even faster. You can use it year after year. Totally cost effective.
Gila works pretty well, I used titanium I've installed it on a couple properties over the years The install is definitely not difficult - but it is an absolute pain in the ass. Your glass needs to be pristine clean, you will somehow pick up dust between walking from having the backing off to the window, and sometimes your edges won't stick or the blade will decide to wrinkle it on an edge. The application kit does make it easier to install If you can live with tiny imperfections then it's fine
In addition, look over the entire house. Being more efficient is cumulative, you fix may not be one thing but many things. Walk around and see if there are any areas that need re-sealing /caulking. Look around doors, windows or anywhere something enters the house like plumbing & electrical. If you have attic space climb in there when the sun is out and look for light coming in where it shouldn't. Then seal it. Look at your insulation. If it's older and settled a bit. It might be time to add some more. Typically adding insulation gives you the best bang for your buck. It all adds up. Just do what your budget, time, and the weather allows. If the attic is in need of insulation even though it may give you the best return. You may want to wait until February to tackle it