The 5 Best Window Film for Skylights: Improve Your Skylights Performance

Last Updated on October 2, 2023

Imagine waking up to the sunrise streaming through your ceiling or enjoying the twilight while lying in bed at night. Skylights have the potential to completely transform the feel of a room, providing an extra source of natural light and a direct connection to the outdoors. 

However, they can also lead to high energy bills as they can let in too much heat during the summer and allow heat to escape during the winter. The solution? 

Window film for skylights. This specialized film is designed to reject heat while allowing light to pass through, reducing your reliance on artificial lighting and cooling systems.

By applying window films to your skylight, you can regulate temperature, reduce glare, and even provide UV protection. But with so many different types of window film on the market, how do you know which one is right for your skylights?

We are here to help you find the best window film for skylights. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite products and shared our thoughts on each one.

Let’s explore the individuals along with their merits. Also, before that, let’s learn some useful basics about window film for skylights!

How do You Reduce the Heat in a Skylight?

Do you feel your skylight lets in too much heat or UV light? You can do a few things to help reduce the amount of heat coming in through your skylight.

One is to install a skylight with Low-E glass, with a special coating reflecting heat back outside.

Another option is to use film or tinting on your skylight, which can help deflect some of it. Not only does it provide a chic, modern look to your skylight, but it also has practical benefits.

These thin plastic sheets can be easily applied to skylight glass and act as a barrier against solar energy, reducing heat from the sun.

Window film comes in various shades and tints, allowing you to customize the amount of light and heat that enters your space and allowing maximum light transmission, resulting in a more comfortable and well-lit room.

Installing blinds or shades on your skylight can also relieve the sun’s rays. However, remember that these methods may not be as effective as properly insulating the skylight. 

For long-term solutions, consider adding insulation around the skylight or replacing it with one designed for improved energy efficiency.

Ultimately, finding the best option for reducing heat coming through your skylight will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Introducing Skylight Window Films

Window film is a type of reflective film that can be applied to windows, allowing sunlight and heat control. It is highly effective at reducing glare and UV rays, making it perfect for homeowners looking to improve the energy efficiency of their skylights.

While they may require special measurements and cuts, many types of window film are specifically designed for skylights. Despite their unique shape and size, skylights can be easily outfitted with window film.

What Are They Made Of?

Skylight window films are typically made of a thin plastic or polyester material and often contain metallic elements such as titanium dioxide to reflect heat and ultraviolet rays. The film is applied directly onto the surface of the window using an adhesive backing.

During installation, the film must be carefully cut to fit the shape of the window and any detailing and then firmly pressed onto the glass to ensure a tight seal. Once applied, skylight window films provide several benefits, including reducing glare, blocking UV rays, and increasing energy efficiency by keeping heating and cooling costs down.

Remember that while skylight window films are fairly easy to install, they may require periodic reapplication or replacement to maintain these benefits. This film can also be tinted to reduce the light entering the home, providing additional protection against the sun’s harmful rays.

What are the Common Types of Window Films Used for Skylights?

Solar Control Window Film

Solar control window film reflects sunlight off your windows in the summer, reducing heat gain. 

In the winter, it helps retain heat inside your home by creating an insulating barrier between the cold outside air and your windows.

Glare Reduction Window Film

Glare reduction window film works by filtering out the sun’s harmful UV rays, reducing glare, and making it easier to see through your windows.

UV Protection Window Film

UV protection window film can help by blocking up to 99% of harmful UV rays. Ultraviolet rays can cause fading and damage to your flooring, furniture, and artwork. By blocking out these rays, UV protection window film helps to protect your belongings from sun damage.

Low-Emissivity Window Film 

The Low-E film works by reflecting ultraviolet light, which is responsible for fading furniture and carpets, as well as causing heat gain. In the winter, Low-E film helps reduce heat loss by allowing visible light to pass through while reflecting back infrared light. 

Reflective Window Film 

Reflective film is a good choice for areas with a lot of sun exposure and wants to keep your skylight cooler in the summer. The reflective film reflects sunlight away from the glass, reducing solar heat gain. The reflective film also has a low visible light transmission, making your skylight appear darker than other types of window film. 

Static Cling Window Film

Static cling window film is a popular choice for skylights because it provides privacy and prevents unwanted light. Unlike traditional adhesive window films, static cling film can be easily applied without messy residue and can be removed and reused as needed. 

And the best part? It’s virtually invisible from the outside – all you’ll see is a beautiful view with just the right amount of privacy.

This type of film is available in various shades to choose the perfect level of darkness for your needs. 

Black static cling film is ideal if you want to completely block out light, and it can also be used to create interesting designs and patterns.

The white static cling window film may be the ideal solution to keep sunlight out of your home without blocking the view completely. 

White static cling film can create a more ‘open’ feeling in your skylight. It allows some light to filter through while still providing privacy.

You can also use it to design interesting patterns.  Combine white static cling film with other colors of static cling film to create a one-of-a-kind look for your skylight.

One-Way Window Film

At night, skylights can leave you feeling exposed and vulnerable. One solution to these issues is a one-way window film for skylights. These specialized films allow natural sunlight to filter in during the day but provide a mirrored effect on the outside so that you can maintain privacy at night.

Frosted Window Film 

The frosted film gives your skylight a frosted or ‘milky’ appearance, and it can be used to create patterns and designs. 

Prism Window Film

Prism film is a decorative film with a prismatic effect.

These films are designed to refract light, creating a rainbow effect. When placed over a light source, the film will disperse the light into a spectrum of colors. The result is an ethereal and enchanting image that will dazzle onlookers.

The Best Window Films for Skylights: Top 5 Picks

Now that we know some basics let’s look at our top picks for the best window film for skylights. Here’s a breakdown of the best window films for skylights based on your needs:

1. Volcanics Rainbow Window Film
2. KESPEN One Way Home Window Film for Heat Rejection
3. HIDBEA Frosted Window Privacy Film
4. BDF NA05 Window Film Sun Control and Heat Rejection
5. Gila Black Residential Privacy Window Film

1. Volcanics Rainbow Window Film

Have you ever wanted to bring the beauty of a rainbow into your home? With Volcanics Rainbow Window Film, you can do just that!

Bringing in a pop of color can completely transform a room, and with Volcanics Rainbow Window Film, it’s never been easier. This special film creates a beautiful spectrum of colors when sunlight hits, adding a touch of whimsy to any window.

It’s perfect for skylights or other decorative windows where you want to add a bit of extra flair. And unlike traditional rainbow window paintings or decals, the film can easily be removed or reapplied whenever you want a change.

So why settle for plain old glass? Add some colorful personality to your space with Volcanics Rainbow Window Film.

What Makes It an Excellent Choice?

• Volcanics Rainbow Window Film is the perfect window cling for those who want to enjoy the natural light while having some privacy.
• This static window film does not use any adhesives, so it can be applied and removed without leaving any residue.
• Volcanics Rainbow Window Film blocks out harmful UV rays, is like wearing sunglasses, and can help save on energy costs.
• With its unique design, this window film creates rainbows that cascade around the room in the morning and look like glittery glass after the sunset.
• Not only do they provide a beautiful ambiance, but they also serve functional purposes as well. It reduces glare from the sun, allowing for comfortable viewing without straining your eyes.
• Installation is super easy.

Looking for a way to add a splash of color without a full renovation? Add some rainbow magic with Volcanics Rainbow Window Film.

2. KESPEN One Way Home Window Film for Heat Rejection

Are you looking for a way to control light and heat in your skylight windows while maintaining privacy? KESPEN One Way Home Window Film is the perfect solution.

This vinyl film is coated with a metal oxide layer that reflects heat and UV rays, helping to keep your home cool in the summer. In the winter, it helps to insulate your windows and prevent heat loss.

And because it’s a one-way mirror film, it allows you daytime privacy and at night. During the daytime, people outside will be able to see in, but you’ll be able to see out. At night, when your lights are on, the film will appear opaque from the outside, giving you complete privacy.

Looking for a window cling that feels like an experience? Bring the beauty of the night sky into your home with this.

What Makes It So Special?

• The KESPEN One Way Home Window Film for Heat Rejection is the perfect solution for protecting your home from the sun’s heat.
• It offers daytime privacy, blocks out harmful UV rays that can damage your skin and furniture, and it’s a great way to add style to any room.
• This mirror window tint with one-way reflection is easy to install and remove, leaving no residue.
• It will allow you to see out while preventing others from seeing in.
• The reflective outer layer gives your windows a cool, modern look.
• Enjoy all the benefits of natural light without sacrificing privacy or protection from impact and shattered glass. 

So if you’re looking for some mind-blowing privacy, let’s try it.

Limitation and Solution

Cutting the film can be tricky because they have a tendency to roll up on themselves. To prevent this, placing something heavy in each corner of the material is important before cutting.

This will hold it flat and allow for a clean, straight cut. Ensuring that the material stays flat during cutting will result in better final results and less frustration.

3. HIDBEA Frosted Window Privacy Film

Looking for a way to add privacy to your skylight windows without compromising style or light transmission? Look no further than HIDBEA Frosted Window Privacy Film!

This static cling glass sticker is perfect for blocking out unwanted views and UV rays while still letting in a beautiful soft glow of natural light. Super easy to apply; all you need is a spray bottle with some soapy water and a scraper or credit card to smooth it into place.

Plus, it’s easily removable and reusable so that you can change up your privacy game anytime you want!

How Does It Stand Out from the Rest?

• Do you need a quick and easy fix for skylight privacy? HIDBEA Frosted Window Privacy Film is the best solution for you!
• While preserving your privacy, allow some light to filter through. Light is reflected from the frosted surface in a soft glow, and the sun’s heat is reduced.
• This is a super easy-to-apply static cling film. You only need a spray bottle with soapy water, a scraper (like a dough scraper or credit card), and scissors to cut the shape.
• Made from high-quality frosted glass, HIDBEA Frosted Window Privacy Film is both decorative and functional.
• It’s great for reducing heat and UV exposure from the sun and is easy to clean.

So, if you need privacy for your skylight windows without sacrificing style or light transmission, HIDBEA Frosted Window Privacy Film is the perfect solution!

4. BDF NA05 Window Film Sun Control and Heat Rejection

Introducing the BDF NA05 Window Film! This incredible film offers sun control and heat rejection for skylights and any other windows or glass doors, helping to reduce cooling costs and blocking harmful UV rays.

This film stands out for its crystal clear visibility. Your furniture, photos, and other UV-sensitive items don’t fade as much because it rejects almost all UV rays.

The film is also extremely easy to install, with the included tools and installation guide making the process a breeze. So don’t wait any longer – experience the difference that the BDF NA05 Window Film can make in your life!

What Makes This Film So Appealing?

• This amazing film rejects about 99% of UV rays, helping to reduce fading on your furniture, pictures or other belongings.
• It also blocks out a ton of heat, making it perfect for those who want to keep their home cool without raising their energy bills.
• Best of all, the film is crystal clear, so you won’t have to sacrifice your view.
• Installation is a breeze too- just follow the included guide and you’ll have it up in no time.

5. Gila Black Residential Privacy Window Film

Do you love your skylight but hate how it makes your home feel like a fishbowl? Gila Black Residential Privacy Window Film is a polyethylene terephthalate-based window film offering great privacy for residential and commercial spaces.

This film is perfect for skylight windows and provides daytime privacy while increasing the comfort of your home. The film is dark, and you can’t see anything inside during the day, making it perfect for keeping prying eyes out.

And because it’s a static cling film, it’s hassle-free to install and perfect for weekend DIY projects. So if you’re looking for a way to enjoy your skylight without feeling like you’re on display, Gila Black Residential Privacy Window Film is the answer.

Is There Anything Special About This Window Film?

• This window film is a great way to achieve privacy in your home while allowing natural light to enter.
• The film is dark enough to provide complete privacy during the day but does not completely block out all light. This makes it perfect for bedrooms, bathrooms, or any other room where you want complete privacy.
• The static cling installation is easy, making it a perfect weekend project.
• Reduces fading of interior furnishings with 99% UV resistance.
• Reduces glare and heat build-up. It works better as a heat reducer and does great at cutting down inbound heat.

Make Your Purchase With These Tips in Mind

When choosing window film for skylights, there are a few things to remember.

What Level of Privacy Do You Need?

If you’re looking for complete privacy, an opaque or frosted window film is the best option. If you need to be able to see through the skylight from inside your home, then a clear window film is a better choice.

Level of Heat Control

An infrared-reflective window film is a good option if you live in an area with hot summers. This film will help keep your skylight area cool and reduce strain on your air conditioning.

For example, if you live in a cooler climate and don’t need as much heat control, you should choose clear window films.

UV Protection Level

If you’re looking for UV protection, a window film with a high UV rating is a good choice. This film will block out most of the sun’s harmful UV rays, helping protect your furniture and flooring from fading.

The Aesthetic You’re Going For

The level of safety and security you need:

If you’re looking for added safety and security, a window film with adhesive backing is a good choice. This film will stabilize the skylight glass if it’s shattered, preventing injuries.

It will also help to protect your home in the event of a severe storm.

The Size and Shape of the Skylight

Size is the most important factor when determining how much window film to purchase for a skylight. A larger skylight will require more film to cover the entire surface area.

Also, it’s important to consider the shape of the skylight. A square skylight will have a uniform shape and might require less film than an oddly shaped skylight with multiple panels.

Some window films come in pre-cut sizes that may fit your skylight more easily than purchasing a roll of film and cutting it yourself. 

Level of Desired Natural Light

Some window films allow more light to pass through than others. If you want to maintain a bright and airy feel in your home, choose a window film with a high light transmission rate.

On the other hand, if you want to reduce the amount of light coming in, choose a film with a lower light transmission rate. For example, a tinted or mirrored film would block more light than a neutral or reflective one.

The Type of Glass

Window film selection is influenced greatly by the type of glass in your skylight.

Skylight windows are made of either tempered or laminated glass. Tempered glass is strong and durable, but it shatters easily.

Laminated glass comprises two layers of tempered glass with a plastic interlayer between them. This type of glass is less likely to shatter, but it’s also more expensive.

Some window films are incompatible with laminated glass, so it’s important to check before purchasing.

If you have a tempered glass skylight, you must purchase a window film specifically designed for tempered glass.

A regular window film may not adhere properly or may not hold up over time.

Material of the Film

Plastic films are affordable and easy to install, but they may not last as long as metalized or ceramic options. It’s also worth considering the heat retention properties of the film.

Some materials may help keep your space cool in the summer, while others may provide extra insulation in colder weather. For example, a film with a metallic layer will reflect heat, while a ceramic film will absorb it.

The Angle of Your Skylight

The angle of your skylight will also affect the window film you purchase. If your skylight is angled more than 45 degrees, you will need a window film designed specifically for angled skylights. 

And also whether it will be easily accessible for applying and maintaining the film. If your skylight is high up or difficult to reach, you might want to hire a professional to do the job.

Light Amplification

Make sure that any window film allows enough light transmission for health and safety – a too-darkly tinted skylight could pose fire risks or hamper emergency search and rescue efforts. If you would like to increase the amount of light coming into your home through the skylight, then you should use window film designed specifically for light amplification.

These films are usually clear or slightly tinted and help to reflect more light into the room. 

Style and Design of the Film

While function is important, you also want to ensure that the window film you purchase complements the style of your home. An opaque or frosted window film will be a good choice if you have a modern home.

Some window films are nearly invisible, while others have a frosted or opaque finish. The type of film you choose should be based on the overall aesthetic you’re trying to achieve in your

Various decorative and stained glass window films can add a touch of style to your skylight. 

Privacy

If you want to increase privacy at home, select a window film with an opaque or frosted finish. These films will prevent people from being able to see into your home, but they will still allow some light to pass through.

Choose a window film designed to block out all light for complete privacy. These films are usually very darkly tinted or mirrored, making it difficult to see inside your home, even during the daytime.

Black static cling window film is an easy, cost-effective solution for preserving privacy without sacrificing the benefits of a skylight. 

Durability

Finally, you’ll want to choose a window film for skylights that is durable and long-lasting. Skylights are exposed to the elements 24/7, so it’s important to choose a window film that can withstand the rigors of the outdoors. Look for a window film that is scratch and fade-resistant and comes with a warranty.

What are the Benefits of Window Film for Skylights?

Reduce Fading of Furniture and Floors

It may seem small, but skylights can hugely impact your living space. Not only do they bring in beautiful natural light, but they also add value to your home and can even improve energy efficiency by reducing the need for artificial lighting.

But without proper protection, all that lovely sunlight can quickly become a nuisance. The glare and excess heat can cause discomfort and damage furniture through fading and discoloration.

But fear not – UV-blocking window film offers the perfect solution.  By blocking out the majority of UV rays, window film can help reduce fading and keep your belongings looking new.

And if you’re worried about the aesthetics, don’t be – modern window film comes in various tints and finishes to seamlessly blend into any decor.

Reduce Glare

Has a skylight above you ever been bothersome when working or watching TV? The sun’s rays can create a distracting glare, making it difficult to see your screen or focus on the task.

Window film for skylights offers an easy solution to this problem. Blocking out some of the sunlight significantly reduces the room’s glare.  

Due to its light-filtering qualities, you’ll still enjoy natural light’s benefits. Applying a frosted or opaque window film will diffuse the light and reduce glare, making it much easier to work or study beneath a skylight. 

And because it doesn’t completely block out the light, you’ll still be able to enjoy the benefits of natural light without the associated glare.

Investing in window film can help you create a more comfortable and productive living space while still allowing natural light to flood in and make the room feel bright and airy.

Restricting UV Rays That Can Cause Skin Damage

Using window film for skylights isn’t just for privacy or decoration – it can protect your skin from harmful UV rays. While wearing sunscreen and seeking shade are important sun safety strategies, the fact is that these UV rays can penetrate glass, potentially causing damage to your skin even while you’re indoors.

Installing skylight film blocks up to 99% of these rays, offering an extra layer of protection against sun damage. Skylight film not only improves the look of your home, but it could also potentially save your skin in the long run.

Regulating Temperature

Window film for skylights is a thin film that can be applied directly to the surface of the skylight and acts as a barrier against heat transfer. It allows natural light to filter through while still regulating temperature and reducing energy costs.

Studies have shown that using window film on skylights can save up to 30% on cooling and heating costs.  And during the summer months, it can help keep your home cooler by blocking heat-producing UV rays.

Improve Privacy

Skylights are wonderful for letting in natural light, but they can also pose a security risk. Anyone looking up from below could see inside a room containing valuables or sensitive documents.

This problem can be solved easily and effectively by installing window film on skylights. By applying a window film, you can increase privacy by blocking out the view from below.

And because it’s applied directly to the glass, it’s virtually impossible to see through from the outside.

Integrated Interior Design That Saves Energy

While skylights are a great way to let natural light into your home, they can also make rooms feel hot and stuffy. Skylight window film offers a solution to this problem.

Made from advanced materials, the film reflects infrared rays while allowing visible light to pass through. This helps keep your skylight areas cool, reducing strain on air conditioning and leading to lower energy costs.

They can be easily integrated into any existing interior design without sacrificing style or aesthetic appeal. So, it is a smart investment for any homeowner with skylights.

Accident, Crime, and Violent Weather Protection at Its Best

Even though skylights are great for allowing natural light into your home, they can also be a security risk. If your skylight is located in a room where you keep valuables or sensitive documents, anyone looking up from below could see inside.

Window film for skylights offers a simple and effective solution to this problem. Blocking out the view from below is possible with a window film. The film is directly applied to the glass, making it virtually impossible to see.

Not only does this mean that your belongings will be safe from prying eyes, but it also offers protection in the event of an accident or crime. If your skylight glass is shattered, the window film will hold the pieces in place and prevent them from falling and injuring anyone below.

During a storm, the window film will help to hold the skylight glass in place and prevent it from being blown away.

How to Install Window Film on Skylights?

Window film is a thin sheet of plastic that can be easily cut to fit any size skylight, and it blocks out excess heat while still allowing light to pass through. It can also offer increased privacy and UV protection for your home. The installation process is easy and straightforward.

What You Need

• Window film
• Tape measure
• Scissors
• Soap and water
• Squeegee

Instructions

1. Prepare the surface
2. Before you begin, ensure the skylight’s surface is clean and free of any dirt or debris.
3. Choose the type of window film you want to use.
4. Measure the skylight and cut the window film to size.
5. Wet the surface of the skylight with soapy water. This will help the window film stick to the surface.
6. Apply the window film to the skylight, starting at the top and working your way down.
7. Use a squeegee to remove air bubbles and water from under the film.
8. Trim off any excess film with scissors.
9. Allow the film to dry for 24 hours before using the skylight.
10. Enjoy your new skylight!

Your Skylight’s Secret to Better Performance

Skylights are a beautiful touch to any home, allowing natural light to pour in and fill your space with warmth and cheer. But did you know that skylight also comes with a dark side?

Their very design makes them vulnerable to the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can cause fading in furniture and artwork. And let’s not forget about the glare and heat that can make it difficult to comfortably enjoy your living space.

Skylight window film is here to save the day! With these top five options, you can have it all – bask in the glory of natural light without sacrificing protection.

So, isn’t it time to get started? Transform your skylights today with the magic of window film.