Roach

My advice would be to check with other local shops and see what they are charging. Try to get them to provide quoests via email so you aren't wasting a lot of their time coming out and doing a 'fake' estimate. Another idea would be to call the local reps of whatever films you are planning on carrying and ask them for some pricing guidance in your market. They may or may not be able to help.

I've used Madico's BF film many years ago on a couple panes. I installed the BF first, went back a couple days later and installed the solar film. First time I did both right after each other on the same visit and the BF ended up bubbling all over. I have no clue if I did something wrong or what the reason was, but the easiest thing was just to make two trips. This was on windows in a security booth in a parking lot and got a lot of sun. It wasn't super close to me, but whenever I would be in the area, I would stop by to see how it was working out. I did that probably 4 or 5 times over the course of 2 years. It always looked awesome. It's probably been a decade... so I have no idea how it currently looks. I've used it here and there since, but that was the first time I used it.

I've had... two (?) jobs using their (or Hanita if you will) films... one resi and one commerical.. I liked the film in terms of installing it... and I haven't gotten a call back for either so I assume it's held up well.

I'm in for 1 or 2. I was actually going to use someone to make up one... obviously it wouldn't be official... but the one I have is worn out. So.. sure.. count me in.

Not sure anyone makes film in 30" widths. 36" is standard.. 24, 36, 48, 60, 72. 3M has some widths that are around those... they like to do things their own way. As for privacy films.. With residential windows, the glass is usually just regular annealed glass. If you use a dark film that is not reflective, the glass could crack. So the darker films tend to be reflective, which is also what gives it the privacy factory. I don't use DIY films, so I can't offer any suggestions on brands.

I think that's a fair assessment. Health issues suck, hands down bar none. Sorry you are dealing with stuff. While I have no idea what that's like for you, I know what my own are like and whatnot. Different different, same same as Mr Miyagi would say.

Do you miss it?

Lots of hot air. You know? Fine.. so tell. Otherwise, move along. No one cares.

I'll give my thoughts on #4... I don't really have anything to offer on the others. Generally speaking, at least in my area, there are only a couple different types of glass used in either homes or offices. So that helps keep the possibilities to just a few. Then in terms of films... while there are a wide range of shades and colors, you're pretty much only going to want to offer a couple choices to customers. Hear their needs, you pick out a few that would match what they need, and steer them to the best film. If you give people too many options, they aren't going to be able to make a choice, and there is really no need for you to stock a hundred different films. As you learn your market, people generally have the same goals in mind with what they need to do. As a professional, you direct them to the best solution.

I dunno but I could use one too.

Just watched that last nite... It's def too dark.

Had a contractor ask me about the above film. I went to Expel's website and I don't see it listed. Is it still available? What are the stats on it? I called Expel and they basically told me to kick rocks since I'm not a dealer. Like... I'm not asking for a cure for cancer..... Just about plastic that is glued to glass. They can kick rocks.......

One suggestion I have for the next shop you pick... who cares about reviews. Ask to look at cars they just completed. Proof is in the pudding......

Biggest thing you need to learn is what type of glass is commonly used in homes and offices in your area. That way you will know what films are safe to use on what windows. It's a whole other ballgame compared to auto glass. Last thing you want is to use the wrong film and have the glass pop.

Use enough soap and a lot of water. If there isn't enough soap, it's gonna be a lot harder to apply, imo.