Frequently Asked Questions about Solar Sun Screen for Windows

Q: What is a solar sun screen?

A: A solar screen typically consists of an aluminum alloy, weather proof frame, and a specialty solar fabric that blocks up to 97% of the sun’s heat from penetrating windows.

A: Believe it or not, windows reflecting on artificial turf causes it to melt. We see it every day. Tint/Window film, being a reflective material makes it even worse. Only shading the window with a solar screen from the outside will guarantee artificial turf protection.

A: Absolutely, the solar screen is designed specially to allow the ‘light’ to pass through but not the ‘heat’.

A: Typically about 1-2 weeks after you first contact us, however we definitely do have some months where it will be longer than this due to the seasonality of solar screens.

A: We use a variety of heat-blocking fabrics, from those that let in plenty of light to fabrics ideal for those who sleep during the day and prefer a darker environment. This way, you can choose the level of light blockage that best suits your needs.

A: We carry all 6 color options for screens. Black, Tan, Gray, Dark Brown, Desert Sand & Bronze.

A: We have five color options for screen frames. White, Almond, Adobe/Tan, Bronze & Gray.

A: leave answer the same but remove the '4'

A: Unlike other companies we do not price strictly on a square foot basis. This allows us to give better pricing if you are doing many windows at the same time. A win/win for you & us! A typical average house will be in the $9/sf range if you are looking to get a ballpark idea!

A: You can measure the window frames from the inside of the home and email us the dimensions to quotes@southwestsunscreens.com. Typically we will get back to you same day.

A: Screens help keep your windows clean by preventing much of the dirt and rain that would otherwise come in contact with the windows. Solar screens block UV rays that can quickly discolor and destroy blinds/shutters/carpet/countertops etc. Provides daytime privacy, so people can not see in your home. Reduces much of the glare you see on your TV or computer screen.

A: APS.com lists solar sun screens as the most cost effective way to conserve energy in the summer. APS.com says it can reduce the electric costs for cooling up to 33%.

A: No, in most cases the solar screen will also act as your insect screen.

A: That is up to you, it is all about personal preference. Most people end up leaving them up year round.

A: We recommend that you get other quotes before you call us, that way you can see the savings we will offer you first hand. Second, check out reviews on Google, Yelp, Yahoo, Bing etc. We have all rave reviews from very satisfied customers. We get the job done right, the first time.

A: If you email us the approximate dimensions to quotes@southwestsunscreens.com typically within a couple hours. If you need us to come out and measure we can schedule that right away. Just call or text us!

A: Absolutely, this will save you between 10% & 20% too!

A: We use the highest quality 1” thick frames. The thinner frames offered by other companies will often bend and bow in a short amount of time and the screen will become wavy.

A: We offer 4 strengths of heat blockage protection, 60%, 80%, 90% & 97% (a specialty fabric only used in certain circumstances).

A: To get the most benefit, we recommend you put them on all your windows. However, any window that gets direct sunlight through it during any time of the day should be considered the top priority.

A: Yes, we custom build sliding doors to fit the exact height and width of your door opening. We also use a much heavier duty sturdier door than what your house came with new

A: If the width of the frame is 1” we would be happy to! Any size smaller than that is not rated for the weight of solar sun screen. You can find many companies that will do this, but the weight of the screen will cause waves after several months.

A: This is always a personal preference. Typically what most people prefer is contrasting colors. i.e. if you have a light colored home, get dark screen. If you have a dark colored home, light colored screens look fantastic! Remember that visibility is always best through the darker colors.

A: Unlike most competitors we do not collect a dime until the job is done 100% to satisfaction. NEVER pay someone for work they have not yet begun.

A: Window tint & window film best used for single pane windows like a car, it is not best suited for dual pane windows. That’s why applying it always voids your manufacturers warranty of the windows. Also, no window film/tint available today has the heat blocking capabilities as solar sun screens.

A: We only use American Made Twitchell Textilene brand screen. It is widely considered the highest quality product of its type available on the market. You can visit their website at www.twitchell.com/commercial_grade_fabrics.

A: Every home is different, so an exact answer is not available. Typically between 1-2 summer seasons though. Also, there is value in the reduced workload it places on your a/c & the UV rays not discoloring your blinds/draperies/flooring etc.

A: According to APS your windows account for nearly 50% of all heat coming into your home. None of the other variables come even close to this.

A: Yes, the screens are specifically designed to allow airflow.

A: Sure, if you are a DIY’er and would like to give it a shot go for it! There certainly is an art to it, and it can become frustrating rather quickly. If you have any questions while building your screens call Brad @ 602.524.9115. He will be happy to offer any tips & tricks he has learned through the years free of charge.

A: The most common high blockage solar screen that we install is a 90% heat block. However, if you are REALLY looking to darken the room also, we even have a 97% heat block. Daytime sleepers (and vampires) love this option!

A: We have done much research on this, and to date we have found no HOAs that will prevent you from using solar screens. Solar screens are only available in natural toned colors so they add class to the appearance of the home rather than being an eyesore. Some communities do have required colors that you are allowed to use. We know almost every community requirement out there. Been doing it since 2011, so we have seen it all!

A: Our shade screens are specifically designed for windows, allowing you to see clearly through our commercial-grade fabrics

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