The Florida Sun Meets Its Match: Why 3M Prestige is the Ultimate Upgrade

Consistently more homeowners and commercial property managers are insisting upon lighter non reflective window films versus the darker reflective metallic films of the past.

Living in Florida means embracing the sunshine, but it also means battling the relentless heat and glare that come with it. For many homeowners and businesses, the struggle is real: you want the beautiful natural light and views that make Florida living so special, but you don’t want your living room to feel like a sauna or your energy bills to skyrocket.


This is where 3M™ Prestige Window Film changes the game.

While traditional window tints often rely on dark dyes or reflective metals, the Prestige Series uses a revolutionary approach to keep you cool without changing the look of your glass.

Why IR Rejection Matters in Florida

In Florida, the sun is often high in the sky. Standard films are tested when the sun is hitting the window directly (90° angle). However, 3M Prestige is designed to be most effective when the sun is at an angle. As the sun rises and the day gets hotter, the “path” the light takes through those hundreds of layers becomes longer. This actually increases the heat rejection performance precisely when you need it most—during the sweltering afternoon hours.

The “No Metal” Advantage

Because this film uses MOF technology instead of metal shards (common in cheaper films), you avoid two major headaches:

  1. Zero Signal Interference: It won’t kill your 5G signal or drop your Wi-Fi calls.

  2. No Corrosion: In Florida’s salty air, metal-based films can oxidize and turn purple or bubbly at the edges. MOF is made of stable polyesters that stay crystal clear for decades.

The Science of “Invisible” Comfort

To understand why 3M Prestige is “revolutionary,” we have to look past the surface of the film and into the microscopic world of Multilayer Optical Film (MOF) technology. This isn’t just a piece of plastic; it’s a high-tech optical engine.


The Anatomy of 3M MOF Technology

Traditional window films are like sunglasses: they use dyes to absorb light or metals to reflect it. 3M’s MOF technology, however, is based on a concept called thin-film interference—the same phenomenon that creates the rainbow colors on a soap bubble or an oil slick.

 

A single sheet of Prestige film is less than the thickness of a human hair, yet it contains hundreds of distinct layers of polyester. Here is how that structure works to reject heat:

  • Precision Engineering: Each of the hundreds of layers is tuned to a specific thickness.

  • Selective Reflection: Because of the precise thickness of these layers, the film can be “programmed” to allow visible light to pass through while reflecting the specific wavelengths of Infrared (IR) and Ultraviolet (UV) light.

  • Constructive Interference: When IR light hits these layers, the waves “bounce” between them in a way that they eventually cancel each other out and are reflected back away from the glass.

Most solar heat enters your home through two sources: visible light and Infrared (IR) light. While you can see the light, you feel the IR. Traditional films often block heat by darkening the window, which sacrifices your view and makes your home feel like a cave.

3M Prestige is different. It utilizes a patented, non-metallized multilayer optical film—essentially a “sandwich” of hundreds of layers thinner than a post-it note. This technology allows the film to:

  • Reject up to 97% of Infrared Heat: It targets the specific wavelengths that cause that “burning” sensation on your skin.

  • Maintain 99.9% UV Protection: It acts like SPF 1000 for your home, protecting your expensive hardwood floors, leather furniture, and artwork from the fading power of the sun.

  • Maximize Clarity: It is virtually clear, allowing high levels of natural light to fill your space while staying invisible from the curb—a major win for HOA-restricted communities.

Understanding the “Invisible” Heat: IR vs. Visible

The sun’s energy reaches your windows in three main components. 3M Prestige manages each differently to keep your home cool without making it dark:

Component % of Solar Energy How Prestige Handles It
Ultraviolet (UV) ~3% Rejects 99.9%. This stops your skin from burning and your furniture from fading.
Visible Light ~44% Allows up to 70% to pass through. This keeps your home bright and cheerful.
Infrared (IR) ~53% Rejects up to 97%. This is the “heat” you feel on your skin.

It’s this winning comparison that gives Advanced Film Solutions our competitive advantage.

Why Florida Homes Choose Advanced Film

At Advanced Film Solutions, we understand the unique challenges of the Sunshine State. We recommend 3M Prestige to our Florida clients because it excels where others fail:

  1. Reflectivity is Lower than Glass: Unlike metallic films that create a “mirror” look at night, Prestige is actually less reflective than the glass it is applied to. You keep your view of the golf course or the bay, even after the sun goes down.

  2. No Corrosion in Salt Air: Metallic films can “fingerprint” or corrode over time, especially in coastal areas. Because Prestige is non-metallic, it will never corrode and won’t interfere with your Wi-Fi or cell signals.

  3. Performance at an Angle: A unique feature of the Prestige Series is that its heat-rejection capabilities actually increase as the sun’s angle gets higher. This means it works hardest during the hottest part of the Florida afternoon.

  4. Drastic Energy Savings: By stopping the heat at the glass, your HVAC system doesn’t have to work “overtime.” Most of our clients see a reduction in cooling costs of up to 30%, meaning the film often pays for itself in just a few years.

Experience the Clear Advantage

You shouldn’t have to choose between a view and a comfortable temperature.

With 3M Prestige, you get the best of both worlds: a bright, beautiful home that stays cool even in the peak of July.

 
  • We love the comparison because when consumers take the time to do their research we win.
  • When consumers ask for a side-by-side mock-up, we win!
  • When consumers check the NFRC for documented performance; we win!
 

Advanced Film Solutions (Florida)

Toll Free 877-575-3456

Why NFRC Certification is the “Gold Standard” for Your Florida Home

In the Sunshine State, window film isn’t a luxury—it’s a survival tool. But with so many brands making big promises about heat rejection, how do you know what’s real and what’s just marketing fluff?

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These NFRC rated coatings can lower the monthly electric costs by 30% a month!

At Advanced Film Solutions, we don’t ask you to take our word for it. We let the data do the talking. Every film we install—from 3M Prestige and Huper Optik to Eastman’s LLumar and Vista lines—is certified by the NFRC.

What is NFRC Certification?

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is a non-profit organization that provides fair, accurate, and credible energy performance ratings. Think of it like the “Nutrition Facts” label on your food, but for your windows.

When a film is NFRC-certified, it has undergone rigorous independent testing to verify:

  • Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Exactly how much solar heat is blocked.

  • Visible Light Transmittance (VLT): Exactly how much light comes through.

  • U-Factor: How well the window insulates against heat transfer.

Window Film serves to balance the amount of light and heat reducing hot spots and allowing your AC system to be more productive.

The Danger of “Unverified” Film

In Florida’s intense climate, an uncertified film might look good on day one but fail to stop the heat, or worse, damage your dual-pane windows. Using non-certified products is a gamble with your comfort and your electric bill.

  • No special maintenance is required for window film and you’ll receive a lifetime warranty.
  • Window film is the most cost-effective energy-saving choice for home or building energy retrofit.
  • Advancements in window film have led to lighter nano-ceramic options that aren’t overly dark. These coatings meet all deed restrictions and HOA rules
  • Thicker security iterations provide a strong crime prevention glass hardening that will delay, deter and deny entry.

Why Choose Advanced Film Solutions?

Expertise matters just as much as the product. Our team doesn’t just “tint windows”; we engineer solutions for Florida’s unique challenges.

Benefit Why It Matters for Floridians
Lower Cooling Costs NFRC-verified SHGC ratings mean your AC isn’t fighting a losing battle.
Fading Protection We install films that block 99.9% of UV rays, preserving your floors and furniture.
Safety & Security Our Eastman and 3M films provide an extra layer of shatter resistance against storms and intruders.
Glass Compatibility Our experts ensure the film you choose is safe for your specific glass type (low-E, tempered, etc.).

Advanced Film Solutions team of dedicated installers has earned the Super Service Award from Angie’s List for 14 straight years.

Science-Backed Comfort

By choosing a company that insists on NFRC-certified brands like 3M, Huper Optik, and Vista, you are investing in documented performance. You’ll feel the difference in the temperature of your living room, and you’ll see the difference in your Duke Energy or TECO bill.

Stop guessing and start cooling. Trust the experts who prioritize verified science over sales talk.

Call today for a free estimate.

Toll free: 877-575-3456

Florida School Safety Glass Security Window Film Compare Brands

The life safety considerations involved with selecting the best choice for your school glass security must be based on objective criteria.

Advanced Film Solutions has undertaken the same due diligence as campus security personnel would take to develop the best security choices combined with real world cost analysis and return on investment.

The security fragment retention physical security criteria was developed in the aftermath of terrorist attacks including the Oklahoma City bombing and embassy bombings around the world.

The Federal guidelines are typically referred to as GSA blast criteria and subsequently testing done for the Department of Defense.

The following window film choices and brands have met and exceeded these requirements. There is no additional test of strength by the Federal government and any implied superiority by any manufacturer is strictly a sale pitch rather than a safety advantage.

LLumar Film (dozens of choices in clear, privacy silver and neutral films that offer energy savings.

3M Ultra 3M Prestige Ultra 3M 2400 shatter window film:

Vista Film: Dual reflective aesthetically pleasing films that lower energy costs and are less reflective for evening vision.

Avery Dennison Hanita Safety Zone Films. They are manufactured in Israel and have extensive blast and intrusion safety experience.

Madico: Also available in tinted energy savings versions along with their dual reflective Sunscape Film

SunTek: These economically priced alternatives include solar versions and clear safety security films.

Johnson Film; Clear and solar versions.

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Attachment systems:

The independent testing typically involved the use of an attachment system.

The most economical and effective from a safety and cost perspective are the wet glazed systems and in particular the use of Dow Corning 995 structural silicon.

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There are nuances between these choices  that are totally based on appearance and energy efficiency. That  decision can be made based on the objectives you are trying to achieve outside of the security benefit.

Let Advanced Film Solutions experts show you the difference in appearance and material costs.

Get a free estimate by calling toll free 877-575-3456

Advanced Film Solutions.

Why Asset Protection and Loss Prevention Managers Choose Advanced Film Solutions

In today’s world, protecting assets and preventing loss is a top priority for retail store owners and property management companies. The threat of smash-and-grab burglaries, vandalism, and even natural disasters necessitates robust security measures. This is where Advanced Film Solutions, the leader in shatter-resistant and fragment-retention window film installation in Tampa Bay, Orlando, and Clearwater, comes in.

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Glazing security window film are thicker versions of window film.

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Asset protection and loss prevention managers consistently choose Advanced Film Solutions for their expertise in installing high-performance window films like 3M Ultra, LLumar, Madico, Armorcoat, and Avery. These thick, clear, and solar films offer a crucial line of defense, designed to delay, deny, and deter unauthorized entry, providing valuable extra time for law enforcement to respond.

Here’s why Advanced Film Solutions is the preferred choice:

1. Unmatched Expertise in Shatter-Resistant Film Installation: Advanced Film Solutions boasts years of experience and a team of highly trained professionals dedicated to the precise and effective installation of security window films. This isn’t a DIY job; proper installation is critical for the film to perform as intended during an impact. Their meticulous approach ensures that the film adheres perfectly, creating a formidable barrier against forced entry.

2. Premium Product Selection for Superior Protection: They don’t just offer one solution; Advanced Film Solutions provides a comprehensive range of industry-leading brands, each with unique strengths:

  • 3M Ultra Series: Known for its micro-layered, tear-resistant technology, 3M Ultra films significantly enhance glass strength, making it incredibly difficult for intruders to gain entry.

  • LLumar Safety and Security Films: These films are designed to hold shattered glass together, preventing dangerous shards from flying and acting as a strong deterrent against forced entry.

  • Madico and Armorcoat: These brands offer robust security films that provide exceptional protection against breakage and penetration, slowing down intruders and giving security personnel more time.

  • Avery Dennison Films: In addition to security, Avery films can also offer solar benefits, helping to reduce energy costs while enhancing safety.

We represent the leading shatter fragment retention window film manufacturers:

This diverse selection allows asset protection managers to choose the perfect film tailored to their specific security needs and budget.

3. Delay, Deny, and Deter: The Core of Their Strategy: The primary goal of these advanced window films is to create a significant obstacle for would-be intruders.

  • Delay: When an impact occurs, the film holds the shattered glass firmly in place, forcing the perpetrator to exert considerably more effort and time to breach the window.

  • Deny: In many cases, the sheer difficulty and noise involved in trying to break through the filmed glass will deny entry altogether.

  • Deter: Visible security film can also act as a powerful visual deterrent, making criminals think twice before targeting a property.

4. Enhanced Safety and Loss Prevention: Beyond deterring crime, these films offer crucial safety benefits. In the event of an accident, natural disaster, or even an internal explosion, the film prevents glass from shattering into dangerous fragments, protecting occupants and merchandise from injury and damage. This significantly reduces potential liability and minimizes inventory loss.

5. Energy Efficiency and UV Protection (with solar options): Many of the films offered by Advanced Film Solutions also come with solar control properties. This means they can help regulate indoor temperatures, reduce glare, and block harmful UV rays, which can fade merchandise and damage interiors. This added benefit contributes to a better environment for employees and customers, and can lead to significant energy savings.

6. Proven Track Record and Local Trust: Advanced Film Solutions has built a strong reputation in the Tampa Bay, Orlando, and Clearwater areas for their reliability, professionalism, and commitment to customer satisfaction. Asset protection and loss prevention managers trust them to deliver effective, long-lasting security solutions.

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In conclusion, for retail store owners and property management companies looking to fortify their establishments against threats, Advanced Film Solutions provides an indispensable service. Their expert installation of leading shatter-resistant window films offers a critical layer of defense, ensuring asset protection, minimizing loss, and providing peace of mind.

The time to plan your security strategy is right now!

Secure Your Assets Today

Don’t wait for a security breach to realize the vulnerability of your glass entry points. Protect your investment, your employees, and your peace of mind by partnering with the regional experts in high-impact defense. Whether you are managing a single boutique in Clearwater or a sprawling commercial portfolio across Orlando and Tampa Bay, Advanced Film Solutions is ready to provide a custom security assessment tailored to your facility’s needs.

Contact us today for a free estimate and discover how our shatter-resistant technologies can help you delay, deny, and deter.

Call Advanced Film Solutions

Toll Free: 877-575-3456 Local: 813-949-3456

Beat the Tampa Bay Heat: Why Pinellas and Hillsborough Homeowners are Choosing Advanced Film Solutions

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As the mercury hits 83 degrees today, residents of Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties know that the Florida “winter” is officially over.

In the Tampa Bay region, our windows are the weakest link in our home’s defense against the sun. Standard glass acts like a magnifying glass, inviting solar energy to hike up your electric bill and wash out your beautiful interiors.

If you’ve been feeling the “hot spots” near your sliders or squinting at your TV screen, it’s time to discover the wisdom of choosing Advanced Film Solutions.


Why Tampa Bay Homeowners are Upgrading Now

The intense sun in cities like Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater creates a triple threat to your home:

  • Solar Heat Gain: Standard double-pane windows allow nearly 76% of sunlight to enter and transform into heat.

  • The “Silent Destroyer” (UV Rays): 40% of interior fading is caused by UV radiation. It’s the primary reason your hardwood floors and leather furniture lose their luster.

  • Blinding Glare: Whether you’re working from home in Brandon or enjoying a coastal view in Dunedin, glare makes screens unreadable and eyes tired.

Heat becomes intolerable and the glare plays tricks with your eyes while watching your favorite TV show during the day.

The unrelenting UV damages your pictures, carpets and drapes. 

The Power of 3M and Eastman Technology

At Advanced Film Solutions, we don’t believe in a “one-size-fits-all” approach. We offer the world’s most advanced portfolios from 3M and Eastman Chemical (LLumar and Vista).

1. 3M Prestige Series

Perfect for gated communities like Avila, Cordoba Estates, Culbreath Isles, Grand Hampton, Livingston Grove, Harbour Island, Live Oak Preserve and condos in Hillsborough County, this non-metallized nanotechnology is actually less reflective than the glass it’s applied to. It rejects up to 97% of infrared heat without changing the look of your home.

2. Eastman LLumar & Vista

The industry gold standard for optical clarity. These films provide a “Wet-Glaze” anchoring option, which can help hold shattered glass together during the severe summer storms we expect here in Pinellas County.

3. Huper Optik Ceramic

For those living near the Gulf, ceramic films are a must. They contain no metal, meaning they will never corrode or succumb to the salty air of St. Pete Beach or Tierra Verde.

That’s why smart energy concerned over-heated consumers call Advanced Film Solutions Tampa Bay’s number one window film installation company.

We’ll transform your windows into cool energy efficient energy smart systems capable of lowering your monthly electric bill by 30%

The “Advanced” Advantage: Why Call Us?

Choosing a window film is only half the battle; the installation is what ensures longevity.

  • Industry Experts: Led by the former National Sales Manager of 3M Window Film, our team understands the science behind the shade.

  • Energy Savings: Our high-performance films can reduce monthly cooling costs by as much as 30%, often paying for themselves in just a few seasons.

  • Proven Reputation: We are an A+ BBB rated company and a multi-year winner of the Angi Super Service Award.


Get Your Free Estimate Today

Don’t wait for the 100 degree days of July to realize your AC is overmatched. Join thousands of your neighbors in Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties who have turned their homes into energy-efficient sanctuaries.

Ready to beat the heat?

Call Advanced Film Solutions today for a no-obligation, free estimate.

  • Tampa/Hillsborough: 813-949-FILM (3456)

  • Pinellas County: 727-944-3456

  • Toll-Free: 877-575-3456


Call today for a free estimate toll free at 877-575-3456.