Category Archives: Commercial Window Film

Florida Shatter Solar Safety Window Film, 2026 Opportunities

Leave a reply

There has been interest in perimeter protection anti-intrusion improvements in the wake of the Newtown, Sandy Hook tragedy and Parkland FL tragedies.

School administrators, campus security, parents and government officials are considering a holistic approach that weighs life safety issues against the implementation costs of building and glass hardening.

schol

Glazing security window film coatings have been used for nearly 50 years for improved glass hardening.

Federal guidelines were implemented after the Oklahoma City bombing to increase security through thicker shatter resistant fragment retention films.

Advanced Film Solutions, Window Film USA is an expert installer of these thicker window film enhancements.

These coatings are designed to withstand high impact and improve life safety against intrusion and blast events.

We represent the leading manufacturers of these impact resistant coatings:

 

 

3M Ultra, 3M Prestige Ultra solar shatter window film.

Eastman Chemical marketed under the LLumar, Vista and Huper Optik brands.

Madico Safety Films

Saint-Gobain marketed as Armorcoat

Hanita – Avery Dennison

The minimum thickness recommended is 8 ML. This is the standard based upon the increased impact and tensile strength.

These coatings are attached to window frames using a variety of systems with the wet sealant silicone as the most prevalent and most cost efficient.

These coatings have been rigorously tested by the GSA, DoD and in several cases Factory Mutual. They also meet ANSI standards and in several instances the UL972 criteria.
Shatter resistant coatings are available in clear versions that provide maximum visibility.

It should be noted that there are solar control iterations of these films that meet the same level of security enhancement but additionally provide glare, energy cost efficiency and privacy (where security officials recommend)

430208_352608111439333_1244046707_n

These solar versions offer a ROI for reduction in energy costs as well as improved student productivity with lower glare and more comfortable facilities.

Energy control versions may also qualify for rebates from local power companies.

Call Advanced Film Solutions at 877-575-3456

 

Tampa Bay Trusted, Expert Home, Commercial Window Tinting Advanced Film Solutions

Leave a reply

The window film business in Tampa has been our obsession since the 1990’s. 

Back then I was the 3M sales rep for window film and later National Sales Manager of 3M Window Film.  In 2007 when I “retired” from 3M my goal was to launch a new concept window film installation company serving the entire Tampa Bay area.

The solutions we would offer were in every category superior in performance, appearance and investment cost to the 3M films.

We thought that we knew the obstacles that would face us as we began.  After all I had paid attention throughout the previous years and having had first hand experience with some of the most successful dealers in the USA.

My goal was to offer superior value with superior products .
 

18 years later and Advanced Film Solutions has developed into one of the largest VISTA and Huper Optik Window Film installation companies in the USA.

We added 3M Prestige and 3M Ultra window film into our portfolio in May of 2025.

We have earned the Super Service award from Angie’s List for 10 straight years and the Best Of Home Advisor Award and HOUZZ.

2020 Eastman LLumar Dealer of the Year for the USA

Locally our car tinting business has grown in leaps and bounds based upon the support and performance of our FormulaOne and LLumar.

The challenge throughout these last 18 years is to continue to offer solutions that meet and exceed our clients requirements.

Our strategy has been to offer the best solutions and warranty with films that are superior in every respect.

Solutions that provide maximum return on your investment by insulating your windows in the winter as well as the summer!

 
The challenge as always is to remain relevant.
 
 
To meet our clients requirements and to offer the best films and the very best brands.
 
 
 

We never assume a sale but rather take the time to explain the differences between the films we offer.

We win on the glass!
 

 
 

Toll Free 877-575-3456
 

2026, Prestige Condominium Owners Solve Glare, Heat, Sun Damage

Leave a reply
 We have been “on a roll” with Non Reflective Prestige Films.
 
mix

2026 is the Year for Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough Condo Owners to Upgrade with Advanced Film Solutions

Living on the Gulf Coast offers breathtaking views, but those expansive sliders and windows come with a hidden cost: heat, glare, and UV damage. 

For condo owners in Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough counties, the challenge is unique. Most Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and condo boards have strict rules against “mirrored” or highly reflective window tints that alter the building’s uniform appearance.

Fortunately, Advanced Film Solutions provides the industry’s two most sophisticated “spectrally selective” options: 3M Prestige and Eastman Huper Optik.

Here is why 2026 is the perfect time to schedule your free estimate.

The “Invisible” Solution: Heat Rejection Without the Mirror Look

The primary reason condo owners choose Advanced Film Solutions is our ability to stop the heat without changing the glass’s aesthetic. Traditional films use metals to reflect heat, creating a silver, shiny appearance.

In contrast, our premium lines use non-metallized nano-technology:

  • 3M Prestige Series: This film consists of hundreds of ultra-thin layers—thinner than a Post-it Note—that specifically target infrared light (the heat you feel) while allowing visible light to pass through. It actually has lower reflectivity than the glass itself, making it virtually invisible from the sidewalk.

  • Huper Optik Ceramic: Utilizing patented nano-ceramic technology, Huper Optik offers a natural, soft-toned appearance. It is 100% dye-free and metal-free, ensuring it will never corrode or turn purple, even in our salty coastal air.

4 Reasons to Call Advanced Film Solutions in 2026

1. Combat Record-Breaking Heat & Utility Hikes

As Florida summers continue to trend hotter, air conditioning units are working harder than ever. By blocking up to 97% of infrared heat, these films can reduce your cooling costs by as much as 30%. In 2026, with rising energy rates, the ROI on window film has never been faster.

2. Maximize 2026 Energy Tax Credits

Under current federal incentives (like the Inflation Reduction Act), certain energy-efficient window film installations may qualify for tax credits of up to 30% of material costs (capped at $1,200 annually). Getting a free estimate now allows you to plan your project to maximize these “dollar-for-dollar” savings on your next tax return.

3. “SPF 1000” for Your Interiors

UV rays are the silent killers of Florida condos. They fade expensive hardwood floors, leather sofas, and precious artwork. Both 3M Prestige and Huper Optik block 99.9% of UV rays, effectively acting as a permanent sunscreen for your home’s interior.

4. Glare-Free Living (Work from Home Ready)

With more residents working remotely in 2026, screen glare is a major productivity hurdle. Our films eliminate up to 90% of glare on monitors and TVs without making your condo feel like a dark cave. You keep your view of the Gulf or the Tampa skyline—you just lose the squinting.

Why Choose Advanced Film Solutions?

We aren’t just installers; we are glass experts with over 45 years of experience. We understand the specific wind-load requirements and HOA restrictions of the Tampa Bay area.

  • Local Expertise: Serving Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough with a proven track record (A+ BBB rating and multiple Super Service Awards).

  • Best-in-Class Crew: Our technicians are some of the highest-rated in the world, ensuring a “factory-finish” installation on every slider and window.

  • Lifetime Warranty: Our films are backed by the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty against bubbling, peeling, or fading.

Pro Tip: 3M Prestige films are designed to perform best when the sun is at its highest and hottest angle—providing the most protection exactly when you need it most.

Ready to stay cool in 2026?

Don’t wait for the first record-breaking heatwave of the year to protect your investment and your comfort.

Contact Advanced Film Solutions today for your free, no-obligation estimate.

  • Toll-Free: 877-575-3456

  • Tampa/Hillsborough: 813-949-3456

If you have earned the best Sun protection and incomparable clarity than Huper Optik is the film for you!

 

Call Advanced Film Solutions 

877-575-3456

Tampa Keeps Cool With 2026, Window Tinting, Advanced Film Solutions

Leave a reply

The mature window tinting business that began over a half century ago has gone through many change since late 2008 when Eastman Performance Films became the first company with NFRC Certification.

The original window films back in the 1960’s and 1970’s had a limited life cycle because of the unstable dyes that were used in the manufacturing process.

This grew to become an industry still in search of credibility. 

35524_535040636529412_1695691701_n
Even today you’ll see purple windows on homes, office buildings and retail stores.


Credibility is critically important and the game changer is the US Department Of Energy and their Energy Star program. 

For window films to become rated and approved the industry has had to develop standardized measurements independently lab tested and documented.

img_home_10

The NFRC provided the vehicle for this logical process and the leading window film companies driven by Eastman’s leadership have followed suit.

Consumers are looking for energy efficient solutions that can reduce their carbon footprint and save money on their electric bills. 

Now with NFRC rated films a consumer can narrow their choices to performance and aesthetics.

Certainly there are reflective films that provide privacy, UV rejection and superior heat rejection.

These films like 3M Prestige, VISTA and LLumar set the standard in low interior reflection and outstanding optical clarity.

 

Non-Reflective Ceramic Films like Huper Optik set the bar at the highest level for a non metal film that meets aesthetic requirements of any Home Owners Association and complies with Deed Restrictions.

We strongly endorse the NFRC and the independent credentials that will ultimately lead to Energy Star ratings

That’s why we always advise our clients to do their homework, check the ratings and get a free estimate from:

Advanced Film Solutions

Tampa Bay, Orlando, Sarasota

877-575-3456


Toll Free 877-575-3456
llll

 

Window Tinting Leadership, Tampa Bay, Orlando & Sarasota

Leave a reply

I‘m as cynical as the next guy when it comes to this window film business.

I’ve been on both sides of the channel.  In my past life as a 3M Sales Rep, Account Exec and National Sales Manager and most recently (16 years) as owner of my own company Advanced Film Solutions.

I am not impressed easily!
 

Mediocrity has become the new normal.
 
East
 

No one paid me to say this but Eastman LLumar SelectPro Films has been the world leader in window film for decades, but recently their management team has grabbed the lapels of this business and shaken it for whatever it’s worth!

Bold moves in acquisitions.

Innovative new to the world solutions.
 

Are they as cheap as some of their copy cat imitators? 
No.
 
 
Candidly who would seriously want them to be?
 

Their solutions are outstanding. Incomparable clarity, a depth of choices and iterations for every critical thinking consumer.

“LEADERSHIP IS ACTION NOT POSITION”


Their management team is dedicated and forthright and their customer service has been extraordinary.

 

After nearly 43,000 homes and thousands of cars using Llumar and FormulaOne I am more convinced than ever that the winning edge is the powerful Eastman team behind us.

 
 
 
877-575-3456