Window Film Blog
Photo of a roll of silver 15 reflective film from Concord Window Film

Silver 15 Reflective Film

We are pleased to add Silver 15 Reflective film as an economical option to our offering of residential window films. Since our ComforTech™ Ceramic Series has a 15 option as well, we think it is important to discuss the differences between the two and what you can expect from each!

Both Silver 15 window film and ceramic window films are popular choices for residential applications, and each has its own set of advantages depending on the specific needs and preferences of the homeowner. Here’s a comparison:

Silver 15 Reflective Film

Reflectivity

Silver 15 films are often highly reflective due to their metallic components. This gives windows a mirrored appearance from the outside, which can enhance privacy during the day.

The internal and external reflectivity of Silver 15 window film is the same – which means that at night when lights are on inside the home, you will get the same mirrored appearance from the inside.

Heat Rejection

Our Silver 15 reflective film rejects a significant amount of solar energy, making them effective at keeping homes cooler in the summer.

Below is a comparison of the solar control properties and reflectivity of Silver 15 vs. ComforTech™ 15:

Silver 15 vs. ComforTech 15

UV Protection

Offers the same strong protection against harmful UV rays, blocking > 99%, as our ComforTech™ Ceramc Series. This not only helps protect you and your family, but can also help prevent the fading of furnishings and flooring.

Cost

Typically, metallic films like Silver 15 are less expensive than high-end ceramic films.

Aesthetics

Silver 15 Reflective film is a metallic film with a shiny, silver finish on the side of the film that is brightest. This typically means on the exterior during the day and on the interior at night. It’s important to be aware of this prior to purchasing.

Some HOA’s and condominium associations have rules about what colors/types of window film can be installed on windows, so you should always check the rules before purchasing if you live in an association.

ComforTech™ Ceramic Window Film

Reflectivity

Ceramic films are less reflective than metallic films, leading to a more natural appearance from both inside and outside the home.

What’s more ComforTech™ Ceramic Series is a dual-reflective window film which means the measurable surface reflectivity of the inner surface and outer surface of the film is different.  The more reflective side faces the outside of the home or the building.  The purpose of a dual reflective film is to provide high solar reflectance (on the outside) while still maintaining less visible reflectivity on the inside.  This becomes important if you have the lights on at night and want to preserve your view of the landscape outside your window. 

Photo of both sides of the same VLT dual-reflective window film next to each other

If you like to leave the lights on inside at night and still see out, these films are worth considering.  Just don’t leave them on too bright!   If there is too much light, you won’t be able to see out no matter what film is on the glass!

Heat Rejection

Ceramic films are excellent at rejecting heat without the need for high reflectivity, which makes them a popular choice for homeowners who want to maintain a clear view without a mirrored appearance.

UV Protection

Like the Silver 15, ComforTech™ 15 offers strong protection against UV rays. All ComforTech™ Ceramic Series films offer greater than 99% protection against harmful UV light.

Durability

Ceramic films are known for their durability and can resist fading and discoloration over time. In fact, ComforTech™ Ceramic Series films can be expected to last 20 or more years.

Price

High-quality ceramic films can be more expensive than metallic films, but many homeowners find the benefits worth the investment.

Aesthetics

ComforTech™ is made from ceramic particles and not metals, so has a more neutral, less shiny, charcoal look to the film even on the reflective exterior. Ceramic film will not change the exterior look of your home as much as Silver 15 reflective film will and this is why it’s often a favorite choice of homeowners.

Conclusion

Choosing between Silver 15 Reflective window film and ComforTech™ Ceramic Series window film depends on individual priorities:

  • If maximizing heat rejection on a budget and daytime privacy (due to reflectivity) are your top priorities, the Silver 15 might be a good choice.
  • If you’re looking for a less reflective option with a neutral color that offers excellent heat rejection, doesn’t interfere with electronic signals, and you’re willing to invest a bit more, a ceramic film would be a preferable choice.

Silver 15 Window Film vs. Ceramic 15 Window Film

In either case, you are in good hands purchasing high-quality window film from Concord Window Film. Please don’t hesitate to call us if you have any questions. Or order a sample kit to compare all of our film for yourself!

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