Top Reasons to Choose 3M’s Dichroic Window Films
Are you looking to add a unique and beautiful touch to your business or residential space? With 3M Dichroic window films, you can do just that. Dichroic window films use different types of metallic layers that filter light and give it a shimmering rainbow-like effect. Depending on the angle and lighting, the view through these films can shift colors, shimmer and captivate the eye. You can create stunning visuals with dichroic window films by adding them to your windows, glass partitions, shower doors or other glass surfaces in your space. Here are the top reasons why dichroic window films should […]
Tips to Make Your Business More Eco-Friendly
More businesses are realizing the importance of being eco-friendly, and for good reason! Doing so not only helps protect our planet, but also offers several benefits to your company. If you’re looking for tips on how to make your business more eco-friendly, you’ve come to the right place. 1. Maximize Natural Light: Letting natural light into the workplace is an effective way to lower energy consumption as well as create a more comfortable working environment. Installing skylights or using large windows can brighten up the space while reducing your reliance on artificial lighting. Be sure not to obstruct light with […]
Utility Rebates and 3M Window Films
Did you know? Window films have been endorsed by many utility companies across the nation. Many utility companies are now even offering a rebate for the installation of window films on commercial buildings by as much as 50%. Window films save energy and lower carbon footprint – something of great interest to utility companies struggling to keep up with consumer demand. One of the major window film companies endorsed by utility providers is 3M. Major cities like Boston and Washington DC have been mandating that large commercial buildings lower their carbon footprint. This new legislation is pushing property owners and […]
Security for First Floor Glass Windows and Doors
Glass doors and windows on the first floor are among the most vulnerable points of entry into your home. show that 81% of all burglaries begin on the first floor. And 23% of burglars enter the home through a window while 22% of forced entries happen through the back door. And even scarier is that 27% of burglaries happen while someone is home. You can protect your home and family from break-ins and deter burglars with 3M Safety and Security Series window films. How 3M Safety and Security Window Films Protect Your Home and Family There are a number of […]
Storefront Window Tinting: 5 Reasons Why You Should
If you own a business with large windows like a restaurant or retail business, you’ve probably noticed how the sun can cause problems. Fading of inventory, excessive heat gain and energy loss are all common issues. But did you know that storefront window tinting can help? Here are 5 reasons why you should consider tinting your storefront windows: 1. Large windows are magnets for the sun. This factor alone contributes to a number of other issues on this list. Heat gain, energy loss, faded inventory can all be attributed to this attraction of sunlight. It also causes glare both inside […]
Beat the Heat with Home Window Tinting
The summer heat and hot sun can do more damage than you think. The reflection off intense sunlight off of windows can cause a number of problems, not to mention excessive heat buildup in your home, which makes your AC have to work harder to keep your home cool. This extra work by your AC costs you money. There is a way to deflect the heat and the damage the intense rays of the sun can cause. Here’s how you can beat the heat with home window tinting. The Damages of Summer Heat and Sunlight There are a number of […]
A Different Kind of Sunblock to Consider This Summer
For the last 30 years, skin cancer diagnoses have been on the rise. Currently, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer at some point in their life. Every hour, one American dies from melanoma (the most dangerous form of skin cancer). You might have heard these statistics before. It’s likely you even follow the recommendations of the Skin Cancer Foundation to minimize your exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. You might stay in the shade or indoors during the most intense hours of sunlight. You might wear UV-blocking sunglasses. And you probably use a high SPF broad […]
Are Residential Window Films a Good Investment?
Are residential window films a good investment? This is a question we get asked a lot, and the answer is a resounding YES! Here are six reasons why residential window film is a great investment for any homeowner: 1. Save energy (and money) – In the summer, residential 3M window film can reject up to 79% of the sun’s heat, making it easier and more affordable to keep your home cool. In the winter, residential window film helps retain heat inside your home, lowering your heating bills. 2. Protect from UV damage and fading – The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays […]
Commercial Buildings: 5 Reasons to Use 3M Window Films
If you have a commercial building, installing 3M window films just makes good financial sense. They have a fast payback and can improve the experience of your tenants and their clients in several ways. Let’s take a look at commercial buildings and the 5 reasons to use 3M window films: 1. Fast Payback – 3M window films have a fast payback. This means, you save money in other ways that helps the window films pay for themselves within three years. The primary savings is in heating and cooling costs. For example, 3M Sun Control window films help reflect UV rays […]
What is Spontaneous Glass Breakage and How to Prevent it
Spontaneous glass breakage is the sudden and unexpected breaking of glass, without any apparent reason or provocation. It can happen to windows, balconies, guardrails and even glass doors and tabletops. While it may seem like a mystery, there are actually several different reasons why spontaneous glass breakage can occur. What Causes Spontaneous Glass Breakage? One common cause is what’s known as “thermal stress”. This happens when there are sudden changes in temperature, causing the glass to expand and contract. It is often caused by the stresses of intense seasonal temperatures. Another cause of is “impact damage”. This is when glass […]
Window Film for Both Safety and Sun Control
3M’s innovative Ultra Prestige Series Window Films give you the best of both worlds – sun control and safety. This unique window film was designed to give homeowners both safety from break-in attempts or natural disasters and sun protection from the sun’s damaging UV and infrared rays. The Ultra Prestige Series is made of 28 micro-layers of clear, tear-resistant window film that gives you the ultimate in security and superior sun protection. Let’s take a closer look: Superior Sun Protection 3M Ultra Prestige Series films give you superior sun protection. It blocks heat, prevents hot spots and reduces damaging UV […]
Prevent Birds from Flying Into Glass Building, Feather Friendly Technology
Did you know? As many as one billion birds die every year in North America due to collisions with windows, glass and buildings. This represents about 10% of the bird population and is the second leading cause of bird death in North America. Birds are a vital part of our ecosystem and along with bees, help pollinate many of our important food crops. As many as 2,000 species of birds help pollinate crops across the continent. This is why preventing bird collisions and deaths has become such an important issue. Prevent Birds from Flying Into Glass Building, Feather Friendly Technology. […]
What Type of Privacy Window Film Should I Choose?
When you’re looking at choosing a privacy window film for your home, office or commercial space, there are four main types to choose from: Solar/Sun Control, Frosted Appearance, Privacy Mirror and Decorative window films. The one you select is determined by what your needs are for the space and the look and feel you want in your space. Here is a breakdown of the four types and the positives and negatives of each option: 1. Solar/Sun Control Window Film – The benefits of this window film is that it blocks heat and offers up to 99% protection from UV rays. […]
6 Benefits and Uses for Gradient Window Films
Gradient window films by Solyx and 3M Fasara give you a number of ways to customize your commercial space. Gradient window films are particularly useful for office spaces with glass walls where you want to have some privacy and separation while allowing light to flow through the space and maintain an open, airy atmosphere. Gradient window films come in all kinds of sizes and configurations and can also be cut to customize the look and feel of your space. Let’s take a look at the six benefits and uses for gradient window films. 1. Keep personal spaces private while allowing […]
5 Strategies to Reduce Your Year-Round Energy Costs
Reducing energy costs is not only good for your wallet, but good for the environment too. When you reduce energy costs, you are also reducing your energy consumption and lowering your carbon footprint. What’s good for the planet is good for your utility bill, too. Here are 5 strategies to reduce your year-round energy costs. 1. Turn off the HVAC – When weather allows, usually in the spring and fall, turn off your HVAC completely. Spending as much time with the HVAC off as possible helps you save money on heating or cooling your home unnecessarily if the outside temperature […]
Privacy Applications for Glass Films: Decorative and Functional
Privacy Applications for Glass Films: Decorative and Functional. When you want to add privacy to glass shower doors, bathroom windows, glass office partitions, storefronts, office spaces and window or door panels, you don’t have to go the expensive route with etched glass. Did you know there are decorative window films specifically made to add design and privacy to any space or glass application? 3M has a number of options and even better, window films are virtually maintenance free and fingerprint resistant while adding both fun and function to your space. Let’s explore some of the ways 3M can give you […]
Bird Safety and Window Films
It’s estimated that between 100 million and over a billion birds die every year from flying into windowpanes in the United States. Why such a large range? Because scientists have a hard time estimating bird strikes based on hard data alone as many occur at homes and various office buildings across the nation. Birds flying into windows of buildings and homes is a serious issue, especially for threatened or endangered species. While the jury is still out on just how much bird window strikes impact conservation efforts, there are ways to help this issue. First, Bird Safety and Window Films […]
How Do I Keep My Wood Floors From Fading?
When you invest in hardwood floors or invest in restoring your wood floors, you want to keep them looking their best for as long as possible. That means avoiding fading that can make your floors look dull and dated way before their time. Here are some practical ways to keep your wood floors from fading: Use Rugs – Use rugs and other temporary floor coverings in areas where the floor gets a lot of sunlight through windows. The rugs will absorb the fading UV rays from the sun and keep the floor underneath in good condition. Move the Furniture – […]
Happy National Window Film Day
Celebrate a Solution to Save Energy and Gain Health and Safety Benefits Top elected officials across the nation are proclaiming April 30th as National Window Film Day. The purpose is to help educate consumers and commercial building owners about a solution to save energy and gain health and safety benefits, according to the International Window Film Association (IWFA), a nonprofit group representing the many benefits of window film from leading manufacturers, distributors, and dealers. Carolina Solar Control , the Raleigh area’s Premiere Elite Prestige Dealer located in Cary, North Carolina, has been tinting the windows of homes and businesses since 1985. Carolina […]
Premiere Elite Dealer & Prestige Dealer Network: What Does That Mean To You?
Carolina Solar Control is a Premier Elite Dealer & a member of the Prestige Dealer network. What exactly does that mean to you? 3M Prestige Dealer Network, which is our most prestigious network has access to our full product offering including our top tiered products: 3M™ Window Film Prestige and Thinsulate Series. This network of dealers are committed to the highest quality and service standards. They have been professionally trained and certified to deliver superior installation backed by 3M’s comprehensive warranties. These dealers service a larger area than the city they are located in and will travel outside their home office to service customers. […]
DOE Invests in Energy Efficiency Including Window Films
This year, the Department of Energy (DOE) said it would invest $3 Million in five different areas to improve energy efficiency in commercial buildings. Part of this investment includes window films. According to Windowfilmmag.com: “Each project team, made up of strategically structured partners, will develop and verify the benefits and trade-offs of multi-system energy efficient technology packages (groups of technologies that improve efficiency across two building systems: envelope, lighting/electrical, plug, process, heating, ventilation, cooling, refrigeration, energy management and information, sensors and controls),” states the release from the DOE. In turn, commercial building owners will have a better understanding of overall […]
Super Service Award- What Our Customers Have To Say
Companies can have the best product in the world, but excellent service is what sets the successful businesses apart from the others. Carolina Solar Control of Raleigh, NC is an Angie’s List Super Service Award Winner year after year. What qualities do you look for in a service company? Technicians and installers who show up on time and take care to keep your home or business clean, teams who are courteous from start to finish, and a company that delivers goods and services at the prices they’ve quoted— these are all qualities you can expect from the team at Carolina […]
Security and Solar Protection Films Modernize Home Built in 1907
On a recent installation, North Carolina window tinting company, Carolina Solar Control, had the opportunity to help modernize the windows of an older home in Chapel Hill, circa 1907, to today’s standards. 3M Ultra Prestige S70 was installed throughout to increase the solar performance and to add a layer of security where forced entry was a concern, or the inspector required safety glass. The optical clarity of the film did not change the appearance, so the historical charm of the home could remain in tact. Not only was this an energy-saving solution for the homeowner, but it increased the security while maintaining […]
Raleigh Window Tinting Company Offers Film For Data Privacy In Office Spaces
Casper™ Cloaking Technology by Designtex is an architectural film for glass walls that obscures digital screens to outside view. It acts as a smart shield to ensure data privacy while providing the peace of mind to collaborate freely in any working environment. This is a breakthrough that will unleash space design in the networked modern world. The Casper product offering also includes a suite of graphic patterns that provide an additional layer of subtle visual privacy. Our cloaking technology can either be used on its own or combined with one of these patterns to dial in the perfect balance of […]
New Apex Home in Popular Bella Casa Gets the Royal Treatment
Carolina Solar was called in to add 3M Ultra Prestige S50 to all windows receiving direct sunlight and the Ultra S600 clear to the shaded and covered glass for safety and security upgrades as well as improving the energy efficiency of the home. Decorative film applications were also installed for added privacy and visual interest on the front door and bathroom glass. The SPR50 is a lightly tinted film offering glare reduction, unmatched heat rejection, and superior fade control. Not to mention it’s an 8mil micro-layered safety & security film rated for bomb blast, severe weather events, and home intrusion […]
Decorative Window Film—Big Applications
The use of decorative window film in offices, schools, and commercial buildings creates a dynamic focal point, while affordably updating an older space. Carolina Solar, Raleigh’s authorized 3M Window Film dealer and installer, recently had the pleasure of working with Wake Tech on a 40’ x 10’ foot glass wall in the STEM department. Pictured here, we performed an application of window film using Dusted Crystal vinyl to create this custom-lettered design. What a statement! To request a quote on decorative window film for aesthetics in design as well as privacy, visit the Carolina Solar website, the trusted company that has […]
Window Film for Privacy
Window Tinting technology from Carolina Solar of Raleigh, serves many purposes— enhancing safety and security, controlling the rays of the sun in indoor spaces, and increasing the comfort level while reducing energy costs for homes and businesses. Another perfect application for window film is to increase privacy while maintaining the aesthetic beauty of a space. Pictured here are two applications in which we used decorative window film to do just that. The frosted, etched, sandblasted, or patterned window film is perfect for windows and doors where privacy is required, yet light is still welcome. We perform this application in homes, […]
3M Preserving Rock & Roll History with Window Film
Thanks to 3M’s rocking window film technology, the artifacts in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum may have a longer life! The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum opened its doors in Cleveland, Ohio 25 year ago, and its mission is to “engage, teach and inspire through the power of rock and roll. It carries out this mission through its operation of a world-class museum that collects, preserves, exhibits and interprets this art form and through its library and archives as well as its educational programs.” This beautiful building is home to an impressive collection […]
3M Window Film: Night Vision Series
As with most products and services, window films require a professional point of view to first determine which type of tinting will be the best solution for you. The 3M Night Vision Series Window Film helps block the sun’s damaging rays, reduce glare, and reject more than 70% of the sun’s heat. Night Vision films also provide significant glare relief. By day, you can enjoy plenty of soft natural sunlight, and thanks to a low interior reflectivity, you can also enjoy improved views out by night. Subtle to high exterior reflectivity means enhanced privacy during the day and at night. […]
Bathroom Makeover on a Budget
When buying or selling a home, potential buyers always look to the kitchens and bathrooms to amaze and impress. Whether you are looking to remodel some areas of your house for your own enjoyment or to improve the resale value, a bathroom makeover doesn’t have to break the budget! Consider a bathroom shower glass makeover using Decorative Window Films to increase privacy while opening and brightening up a small space. These permanent but removable films can transform a plain glass shower door into a plethora of finish choices such as sandblasted glass, etched glass, and 3M Fasara frosted glass with […]
The Spontaneous Glass Breakage Phenomenon
Just last week, Good Morning America had a story about “spontaneous breakage.” What exactly is it, and how can you prevent it? Spontaneous glass breakage is a phenomenon by which ‘toughened’ or tempered glass may spontaneously break without any apparent reason. Here are some of the causes: Minor damage during glass installation, whereby larger cracks radiate from the point of defect Thermal changes, such as extreme heat and/or cold, which can alter the integrity of the glass or cause the glass to bind to the casing Nickel sulfide inclusions, which are defects in the glass material Wind load on insufficient […]
Daylight Redirecting Film in Raleigh
3M Daylight redirecting film utilizes micro-replication to redirect light that would have originally hit the floor a few feet from the window, up onto the ceiling, helping to light the room as deep as 40 feet from the window. Normally daylight redirecting film is placed on windows six feet above the floor for in order to achieve overhead lighting. Here, however, the idea was to illuminate the entire server rooms. Top pictures show the daylighting film only (very sharp), and the lower pictures show the mandatory diffusor panel which distributes the light evenly. For daylight redirecting solutions for your office space, […]
Window Film Saves Energy and Money
This spring, the International Window Film Association (IWFA), discussed the many benefits of professionally-installed window film in Modern Builder + Design Magazine. Darrell Smith writes: Professionally installed window films offer a variety of benefits, depending on the type of film that is installed. Window film products are rated by the National Fenestration Rating Council for energy savings just like windows. Across many climate zones, window film has been shown to be one of the most cost-effective energy saving solutions. Return on investment on standard films is far less than that of full window replacements and some utilities offer rebates for […]
3M Night Vision Window Film Reduces Heat and Glare
Carolina Solar Control of Raleigh NC recently had the task of reducing excessive heat and glare for Labcorp. Night Vision 15 was installed on the skylights and the next shade lighter ( NV25 ) on the main entrance wall, click here to request a free quote. Call on Carolina Solar—your authorized 3M Window Film Dealer and Installer of the Carolinas.
Decorative Window Film Adds Privacy & Visual Interest
Often times, at Carolina Solar, we get requests for decorative window film applications for privacy or architectural design. Pictured here is a decorative film, called Glazed Morocco. These films have the ability to completely transform the look and feel of ordinary glass and for a fraction of the cost. Beautiful when viewed by day or night they allow natural light to pass through while blocking better than 99% of the ultraviolet rays. To request a free quote on decorative window film for your home or business, call Carolina Solar—your authorized 3M Window Film dealer and Installer of the Carolinas, with locations in Raleigh, […]
New Restaurant Enjoys Great Views Inside and Out
New restaurant, PG Werth’s in Raleigh, NC, is a place where you can enjoy Southern cuisine with a contemporary flair. Chef Hamm wanted his patrons to enjoy the view looking out at the city and wanted people passing by outside during the day to see the inside of the restaurant. However, client comfort was also important to Chef Hamm. Carolina Solar Control, Raleigh’s authorized 3M Window Film Dealer and Installer, had just the right solution – 3M Night Vision Film for heat and glare control with low reflectivity for superior interior and exterior views. So, this spring, try PG Werth’s […]
Two Window Tinting Applications in One Southern Pines Commercial Space
Carolina Solar Control, Raleigh’s premiere residential and commercial window tinting company, recently had the opportunity to help First Bank in Southern Pines with two distinct window film applications to serve two distinct purposes. 3M Night Vision 35 window film was used on all exterior glass for heat and glare control from the sun, creating tenant comfort. Night Vision series films accomplish three main goals: 1. Dual reflective technology provides daytime privacy while allowing easier viewing outside at night 2. Allows up to 35% of the visible light through your windows 3. Additional tint provides excellent heat rejection and offers the best […]
Replacing Older Window Tint Adds Light and Saves Energy
Replacement of older window film on office building windows will not only save in commercial energy costs, but new 3M window film will also harness more natural light of the sun. Some older generations of window tinting films from the early 1990’s used metals and darker tints, but new light is being shed in commercial spaces by replacing older window film with newer, lighter 3M heat and glare control films. This was the case with The United Way in Honolulu, Hawaii. “A renovation of the building in the early 1990s included the application of a tinted window film, which by […]
New 3M Architectural Finishes and Surface Designs
For the sleek feel and look of metal, the coolness of stone, or the rustic warmth of wood grain, architects and builders are not thinking faux…they are thinking fantastic! 3M DI-NOC architectural surface finishes now feature over 500 designs at a budget-friendly price. Some of the benefits of these decorative films include: Aesthetics – DI-NOC architectural finishes resemble natural materials and other types of surfaces to an astonishing degree. They deliver the look you want, at the price you need. Remodel and Reuse – They go up fast, with less likelihood of error and waste, and bring life to existing […]“Net-Zero” Store Produces More Energy than It Consumes With the Help of 3M Daylight Redirecting Film
Walgreen’s, the Nation’s largest drugstore chain, with over 8,000 stores nationwide, opened its first “net-zero” location—a store designed to produce more energy than it consumes. It is equipped with wind turbines, solar panels, and a lighting strategy that incorporates 3M Daylight Redirecting Film. “For every vertical foot of window glass treated with redirecting window film, 3M estimates that natural daylight can be extended up to eight feet into a building’s interior. That can translate into as much as a 52% reduction in lighting energy savings. And, in the case of the Evanston Walgreens, the film is performing brilliantly. “By applying […]
3M Fasara Milano: Attention to Detail
Ferry Porsche created his vehicle on something called The Porsche Principle. “The underlying principle is to always get the most out of everything. From day one, we have strived to translate performance into speed – and success – in the most intelligent way possible. It’s no longer all about horsepower, but more ideas per horsepower. This principle originates on the race track and is embodied in every single one of our cars. We call it “Intelligent Performance”. Carolina Solar Control, the triangle’s authorized 3M Window Film dealer and installer, recently had the opportunity to add a racing stripe detail to the […]
Decorative Window Film for Office Privacy
Carolina Solar Control, your authorized 3M Window Film dealer and installer in Raleigh/Durham, recently completed a decorative film installation for Nutanix. We worked closely with the designer and building owners to create a custom look that offers privacy for meetings while maintaining the view of the Durham skyline throughout the floor. As pictured here, you can see the use of 3M Fasara Leise – frosted stripes, coupled with vinyl room names to create the customized look. Window film is a very cost-effective, custom solution to create privacy on clear glass in interior spaces. To request a quote, please contact Carolina Solar today.
Raleigh Window Tinting Company Installs Decorative Window Film
Fitness and Yoga rooms at 605 West apartments in Durham, North Carolina received an aesthetic update last month. Raleigh window tinting company, Carolina Solar Control, used a custom print on 3M’s Scotchcal Dusted Crystal to create a permanent, custom window graphic for both visual interest and privacy needs. Have an interior space that needs a design update? 3M Window Film solutions from Carolina Solar Control & Security can be a cost-effective way to add an architectural design element to your new or existing space. To request a quote, visit www.carolina-solar.com.
Window Film Reduces Heat and Glare
Carolina Solar Control of Raleigh/Durham, recently completed a window film installation at Kraft YMCA in Apex, North Carolina. Using commercial window film, installer Jason Smith, was able to significantly reduce heat and glare issues in the complex. To request a quote on window film for your home or business, visit www.carolina-solar.com today.
Break-In with No Glass Breakage?
Here are some incredible pictures that homeowners of a recent break-in shared with us. Window Film was installed in 2007. Intruders literally kicked the door and the jamb to splinters, and the glass did not break! Police surmised that the intruders were going for the lock sets, but even with that much force the window held. Durham police and the residents were astonished at the glass staying intact during this event. These photos show the unbroken glass held together by the film and the attachment system. Typically, glass will break, but be held in place by the safety film. If […]
Carolina Solar Featured On Houzz.com
Recently, a project by Carolina Solar Control, a Raleigh window tinting company, was featured on www.houzz.com. Houzz.com is a collaborative platform for home remodeling and design, bringing homeowners and home professionals together in a uniquely visual online community. Carolina Solar Control was featured in an editorial article entitled, “A Surefire Way to Prevent Sun Damage Indoors,” where a before and after photo clearly shows the benefits of 3M Night Vision 25.
Paper and Cardboard: Not a Viable Solar Control Solution
This is an all too familiar scene… sun glares into an office building window, and employees take it upon themselves to fix the problem, using recycled copy paper, shreds of cardboard boxes, and the ultimate factotum of DIY home & office improvement…duct tape. Well, Carolina Solar, your authorized 3M Window Film dealer and installer of Raleigh/Durham, Wilmington, and Myrtle Beach, has a host of better solutions when it comes to sun control. Carolina Solar will evaluate the situation, and provide a cost-effective window film solution to decrease glare, radiant heat, and damaging UV rays, while still allowing natural light to […]
Raleigh Window Tinting Company Used Window Film In Unique Way To Help An Area Business
Lowes Foods in Holly Springs, North Carolina, had a unique lighting issue, which required a unique solution. The Problem: LED lighting used to beautifully display flower arrangements in the flower case presented a very harsh lighting situation for customers entering the store. The Solution: Raleigh window tinting company, Carolina Solar Control, was able to help the client by installing 3M Fasara Milano, a semi-transparent light-diffusing window film by 3M®. For more information on 3M window film solutions and window tinting for your home or business, contact Carolina Solar Control & Security, your authorized 3M® Window Film dealer of the Carolinas with […]
- Call for a residential or commercial window tinting quote today!
- (919) 795-8216
- cscwindowfilms@gmail.com
