Is The Window Place USA an authorized vendor for government window film procurement?

Yes. The Window Place USA is a SAM.gov-registered vendor (CAGE Code: 52MH9, DUNS: 807327700) and an authorized distributor of Saint-Gobain SolarGard architectural window films. We accept GSA SmartPay and P-Cards for federal and municipal procurement of ASTM F1642-compliant Armorcoat blast mitigation films and solar control films.

Which window film is recommended for school safety and delayed intrusion?

For school safety applications, we recommend SolarGard Armorcoat Safety and Security Window Film in 8-Mil or 14-Mil thicknesses. These films are tested to delay forced entry, buying critical time for law enforcement response, and hold shattered glass together to minimize injury during impact events. Both the 8-Mil and 14-Mil products are certified to ASTM F1642 blast mitigation standards.

Does SolarGard Ecolux 70 Low-E qualify for the Federal Energy Tax Credit?

SolarGard Ecolux 70 Low-E window film may qualify for the 30% Federal Energy Efficiency Tax Credit (Section 25C, IRS Form 5695) under the Inflation Reduction Act for qualifying residential installations through December 31, 2032, subject to an annual cap of $1,200. Consult your tax advisor to confirm eligibility for your specific installation.

Does The Window Place USA ship window film to all 50 states?

Yes. The Window Place USA ships factory-sealed SolarGard master rolls via FedEx Ground and Freight to all 50 states. Orders placed before 2:00 PM EST are eligible for same-day dispatch. We do not offer overnight or expedited shipping options.

DOE-Recommended Window Film Benefits for Your Home: Energy Savings, UV Protection & More

Posted by The Window Place USA on Mar 17th 2026

Source: U.S. Department of Energy. Energy Efficient Window Coverings. Retrieved from [https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-window-coverings](https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-window-coverings). Public domain.

The Hidden Cost of Bare Windows

For many homeowners, the windows that provide beautiful natural light and views of the outdoors are also the primary source of high utility bills and uncomfortable rooms. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), about 30% of a home's heating energy is lost through windows [1]. Even more drastically, during cooling seasons, "about 76% of sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows enters to become heat" [1].

To combat this massive energy loss without sacrificing the view, the DOE recommends surface-applied window films as a highly effective, energy-efficient window covering for residential applications.

How Solar Control Film Works

Unlike heavy drapes or thick cellular shades that block the view and require constant manual adjustment, window films are applied directly to the interior glazing surface of the glass. The DOE explains that these films "help block against solar heat gain and protect against glare and ultraviolet exposure" [1].

They are particularly beneficial for homeowners who want to maintain their unobstructed views but struggle with rooms that get too hot in the afternoon sun. The films are typically constructed of three layers: an adhesive layer, a durable polyester film layer, and a scratch-resistant top coating [1].

Key Benefits of Residential Window Film

The DOE highlights several specific advantages for homeowners who choose to install window film:

Homeowner Benefit	How Window Film Provides It
Cooling Cost Reduction	By rejecting solar heat before it enters the room, films drastically reduce the workload on residential air conditioning systems. The DOE notes they are "best used in climates with long cooling seasons" [1].
Glare Reduction	Films cut down on the harsh glare that makes watching television or working on a computer screen difficult in sun-facing rooms [1].
UV & Fade Protection	The DOE points out that films are an excellent choice "in places where artwork, furniture, or carpeting could be faded by UV exposure" [1].
Unobstructed Views	They are ideal for "homeowners who don't want to block views with other window treatments" or for uniquely shaped windows that are difficult to fit with traditional blinds [1].

Understanding NFRC Ratings

When shopping for window film, it is crucial to look at the performance data. The DOE notes that reputable window films are rated by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) [1].

The two most important metrics on the NFRC label are the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) and Visible Transmittance (VT). Both are measured on a scale from 0 to 1. As the DOE advises: "The lower the SHGC, the better the film is at blocking heat gain. The higher the VT, the more potential for daylighting" [1].

The Window Place USA: Professional-Grade Films for Your Home

While some films require professional installation, the DOE acknowledges that films "are available for do-it-yourself projects" [1].

The Window Place USA supplies homeowners with the same professional-grade, NFRC-rated solar control window films used in commercial buildings. By purchasing our supply-only rolls, you can achieve the exact energy savings and UV protection recommended by the DOE, at a fraction of the cost of a contracted installation.

Explore our solar control films today to start lowering your cooling bills and protecting your interior furnishings. Contact: inquiries@thewindowplaceusa.com | (866) 274-2769.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Department of Energy recommend window film?
Yes. The DOE explicitly lists window films as an energy-efficient window covering that helps block solar heat gain, reduce glare, and protect against ultraviolet exposure [1].

Will window film make my house too dark?
Not necessarily. Modern solar control films offer high Visible Transmittance (VT), meaning they let plenty of natural daylight in while still blocking the invisible infrared heat and UV rays [1].

Can I install window film myself?
Yes. The DOE notes that window films are available for do-it-yourself projects. Purchasing supply-only rolls allows homeowners to upgrade their windows without paying for professional installation labor [1].

References

[1] U.S. Department of Energy. "Energy Efficient Window Coverings." Energy Saver. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-window-coverings