New Report Confirms Window Film as One of the Most Cost-Effective Solutions for Energy Savings

By: David Smith

In a press release issued this week, the International Window Film Association (IWFA), a nonprofit group, announced that a comprehensive analysis of window film found it to be the most cost-effective energy saving choice for Californians when used in retrofit applications on homes and buildings. “Without a doubt, window film offers an enormous potential for energy savings in the California market in all retrofit remodeling applications,” said Darrell Smith, executive director of the IWFA. “When widely installed the resulting reduction of peak demand on utilities and greenhouse gases will further the state’s reputation as an environmental leader,” he added. California-based ConSol made the independent analysis. Their study compared installing window film on existing structures in the state to other traditional energy saving techniques such as updating HVAC systems, air sealing and caulking, and adding R-38 ceiling insulation, and found that window film came out ahead. The group used many of the same informational processes that the California Energy Commission utilizes in determining energy savings. The report can be found here. “With over 70 percent of the buildings and homes in the California market having been constructed before 1980, window film has to be high on the list for every building retrofit project across the state,” said Mike Hodgson, president of ConSol. In existing commercial structures, window film’s energy savings alone can offer a payback of less than two years, or up to a 70 percent return on investment depending on the construction, location and window film used, according to the study. For example, window film offers the opportunity to lower air conditioning costs and save on lighting bills by reducing solar heat gain, while letting in natural light without the negative impact of harsh glare and UV exposure. Madico Window Films is a proud and active member of the IWFA.