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The best window film for privacy depends on how much privacy you want. Options include blackout film, frosted film, mirror film, or dark tint. Each variety provides a different aesthetic and degree of privacy. Bear in mind that most privacy films reduce visibility through both sides of the glass.
Types of Privacy Film
Blackout Film
A 3M blackout film gives you 100% privacy; you can’t see in or out, and no light passes through glass. A potential application for this film would be in a commercial setting where you want to hide eyesores like studs or HVAC equipment.
Decorative Film
Another privacy film option is a decorative film that gives a frosted appearance. With different degrees of opacity, you can balance the levels of privacy and natural light to your requirements. Branding can also be incorporated into this privacy film option with logo cutouts or inlays. This film closely resembles costly etched or sandblasted glass but at a much more affordable price point. Installing the film also requires far less disruption and downtime than removing your existing glass and installing new material.
Mirror Film
Many clients request a one-way privacy film. This product does exist, but it only performs in certain lighting conditions. During the day, 3M P-18 Mirror Film will give you the effect of a one-way mirror. However, at nighttime, if it’s dark outside, but lights are on inside, people on the exterior can still see into your home or business. As a result, mirror film does not truly transform a piece of glass into a one-way mirror. It can give that illusion during daylight hours, but it does not prevent people outside from seeing inside at night.
Dark Tint
Another option for increasing the privacy of your space is a dark tint. Darkly tinted film decreases visibility when looking both in and out of a window. Additional benefits of dark tint include solar heat rejection and glare reduction.
After listening to your needs and preferences, the window tinting experts at ATD Solar Film & Graphics will make a recommendation based on your requirements. Contact us to speak with one of our team members about your project.