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One of the most misunderstood films and one we get asked a ton of questions about is privacy film. People want to know how it works and ask us “can you see through window film at night?” And the answer is – it depends on what type of film you are talking about!
There are transparent privacy films and opaque privacy films available. But when people ask this question they are mostly interested in transparent privacy film (i.e. film they can see through so they maintain the views from their windows) and are interested in preventing folks from looking in. And with this type of transparent film, you can see through it into the home at night. Let’s look at why this is…
Window films come in various types, such as those offered by Concord Window Film: ComforTech™ solar control ceramic, matte white privacy, silver reflective, and safety film. Each type has its unique properties and benefits, but today, we’ll focus on privacy window films and how they function in different lighting conditions. And as we mentioned there are two types of privacy film: transparent and opaque.
Transparent privacy film can only offer daytime privacy. The films are designed to reflect the brighter light source, which is typically the sun’s light outside. This means that from the outside, your windows will reflect the outside world preventing people from seeing in. Inside, you’ll still enjoy natural light and visibility to the outside world. Transparent films do this by creating a one-way mirror effect described above.
These transparent privacy films – like ComforTech™ 05, 15, and 25 – provide great daytime privacy but you will be able to see through the film from the outside at night. The photos below show patio doors before and after ComforTech™ 25 film is installed:
The scenario changes at night. Once the sun sets, the light source shifts. The brighter light is now typically inside your home, which can reduce the reflective effect of the window film. This means if your interior lights are on and it’s darker outside, people will be able to see in from the outside.
So just what are your options if you want round-the-clock privacy AND you want to be able to see out of your windows during the day? We’ve got a few ideas for you:
Combine privacy film with curtains or blinds. During the night, close your curtains or blinds to ensure complete privacy. This gives you the best of both worlds – daytime privacy (plus heat and glare reduction and UV blockage) and nighttime privacy!
These films offer consistent privacy day and night, as they blur and distort the view through the glass while still allowing light to enter.
Our Matte White Privacy film offers a bright modern look that will provide both day and nighttime privacy. Matte White will keep your space bright in the daytime by letting in 66% of visible light. It’s a terrific option for bedrooms or bathrooms – check out some more Matte White film ideas.
Be mindful of interior lighting. Dimming interior lights or using directional lighting can reduce visibility from the outside. In addition, lighting up the outside of your home to make it brighter at night with exterior lighting options like these can also inhibit the view to the interior.
While transparent privacy window films are highly effective during the day, their effectiveness will diminish at night when it is brighter inside than out. By understanding how these transparent films work and implementing additional privacy measures, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of window film while maintaining their privacy around the clock.
For those interested in exploring the options for high-quality, DIY privacy window films, visit Concord Window Film at www.windowfilm.com. We offer a range of products that cater to different privacy needs and aesthetics, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your home.
