Comparison of Solar Gard and Madico

Solar Gard offers excellent heat rejection and durability, while Madico is known for its advanced security films and optical clarity. Both brands provide high-quality window films, but Solar Gard excels in energy efficiency, whereas Madico stands out in safety and protection.

Head-to-Head Comparison of Solar Gard & Madico

Feature Solar Gard Madico
Heat Rejection (TSER) Up to 82% Up to 75%
UV Protection Blocks 99% Blocks 98%
Glare Reduction Up to 94% Up to 82%
Durability Advanced scratch-resistant coating Basic coating
Warranty 10-15 years (Residential) 5-10 years (Residential)
Eco-Friendly EPD Certified Not certified
Price (Reflective) $12-$15/sq. ft. $8-$12/sq. ft.
Price (Ceramic) $18-$20/sq. ft. $14-$16/sq. ft.
Price (Security) $26/sq. ft. $24/sq. ft.
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Solar Gard (Premium Film)

Heat Rejection

Solar Gard films offer up to 82% total solar energy rejection (TSER) on some models like their ceramic and dual-reflective films.
Example
  • Solar Gard Silver 20 has a TSER of 79%.
  • Ceramic films like Solar Gard Sentinel Plus can block 99% of UV rays and provide a TSER of up to 70% without the reflective look.

UV Protection

Blocks 99% of UV rays, helping to protect furniture, flooring, and skin.

Glare Reduction

Reduces glare by up to 94%, improving visibility and comfort in homes or offices.

Warranty

Backed by 10-15 year warranties for residential and 7-10 years for commercial applications, depending on the product.

Durability

Solar Gard uses a proprietary adhesive system and scratch-resistant coating that ensures the film looks great and performs for years without peeling or bubbling.

Eco-Friendly Benefits

  • Solar Gard is certified as an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) film, meaning its production has a lower environmental impact.
  • It reduces cooling costs by up to 30%, which appeals to eco-conscious customers.

Pricing (Retail)

  • Reflective films: $12-$15 per square foot installed.
  • Ceramic films: $18-$20 per square foot installed.
  • Security films: $25-$30 per square foot installed, depending on thickness (4-15 mils).

Special Applications

  • Offers advanced low-e films for insulating properties in cold climates.
  • Smart film options (e.g., Diamond package) for adjustable transparency, starting at $40+ per square foot.

Madico (Affordable Film)

Heat Rejection

Provides up to 65-75% total solar energy rejection (TSER) on reflective films.

Example
  • Madico Sunscape Starlite 15 has a TSER of 72%, but more affordable options like Madico Bronze only achieve around 55-60%

UV Protection

Blocks up to 98% of UV rays, slightly lower than Solar Gard.

Glare Reduction

Reduces glare by up to 82%, less effective than Solar Gard’s high-end models.

Warranty

Warranties are 5-10 years for residential and 3-7 years for commercial, depending on the film type.

Durability

While durable, Madico films don’t include the same advanced scratch-resistant coatings as Solar Gard. They may require more maintenance over time.

Eco-Friendly Benefits

  • Reduces cooling costs by around 20-25% (less effective than Solar Gard).
  • No EPD certifications for sustainability.

Pricing (Retail)

  • Reflective films: $8-$12 per square foot installed.
  • Ceramic films: $14-$16 per square foot installed.
  • Security films: $20-$25 per square foot installed, depending on thickness.

Special Applications

  • Limited options for smart films or advanced ceramic coatings.
  • Primarily offers traditional reflective and non-reflective films.

Solar Gard and Madico differences

Solar Gard Premium Line

  • Solar Gard is ideal for those who want top-of-the-line performance and energy savings. With superior heat rejection, premium UV protection, and an industry-leading warranty, it’s perfect for anyone looking to invest in long-term comfort and quality.
  • If you’re thinking about aesthetics, Solar Gard’s ceramic films offer a natural, non-reflective look while still rejecting heat—perfect for high-end homes and offices.

Madico Budget Option

  • Madico is a great choice if you’re looking for effective heat rejection and UV protection without breaking the bank. It’s a dependable film that performs well for everyday needs and fits within a more budget-conscious plan.
  • For smaller jobs or customers who just want reliable sun control, Madico provides solid performance at a lower price point.
Here is a comprehensive overview of the ceramic and dual-reflective window films offered by Solar Gard and Madico, including their available shades, specifications, and warranty information.

Solar Gard Films

1. PureVue Ceramic Series

Solar Gard PureVue Ceramic films utilize advanced sputtered ceramic technology to provide significant heat and glare rejection while maintaining clear views and a natural glass appearance.
Film Shade PureVue 35 PureVue 50 PureVue 60 PureVue 70
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) 37% 50% 61% 72%
Visible Light Reflectance (Exterior/Interior) 16% / 15% 13% / 11% 11% / 9% 8% / 8%
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) 0.42 0.52 0.60 0.61
Total Solar Energy Rejected (TSER) 58% 48% 40% 39%
UV Light Blocked 99% 99% 99% 99%
Fade Reduction 70% 60% 51% 38%

Warranty

PureVue Ceramic films come with a comprehensive 12-year warranty, ensuring lasting quality and performance.

2. TrueVue Dual Reflective Series

The TrueVue series features dual-reflective films that are reflective on the exterior to maximize heat rejection and neutral on the interior to maintain clear views.
Film Shade TrueVue 5 TrueVue 15 TrueVue 30 TrueVue 40
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) 5% 12% 31% 39%
Visible Light Reflectance (Exterior/Interior) 44% / 8% 44% / 23% 22% / 13% 14% / 10%
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) 0.21 0.23 0.39 0.48
Total Solar Energy Rejected (TSER) 79% 77% 61% 52%
UV Light Blocked 99% 99% 99% 99%
Fade Reduction 95% 88% 72% 66%

Warranty

Solar Gard offers a limited lifetime warranty for residential applications and up to a 12-year warranty for commercial installations on their window films.

Madico Window Films

1. Advanced Ceramic Series

Madico Advanced Ceramic films are designed to provide high performance without compromising aesthetics. These films utilize advanced ceramic technology to offer excellent heat rejection, UV protection, and glare reduction while maintaining a neutral appearance.
Film Shade Advanced Ceramic 3000 Advanced Ceramic 4000 Advanced Ceramic 5000
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) 35% 46% 53%
Visible Light Reflectance (Exterior/Interior) 17% / 16% 14% / 12% 12% / 10%
Glare Reduction 61% 49% 40%
Total Solar Energy Rejected (TSER) 58% 50% 44%
UV Rejection 99% 99% 99%

Warranty

Madico architectural window films are covered by a warranty for a specified time. Most residential applications are covered by a lifetime warranty as long as you own the house, while most commercial installations receive either a 10- or 15-year warranty.

2. Optivision Reflective Series

The Optivision Reflective series offers superior privacy with its dual-reflective solar film, available in 5% and 15% VLT. This film reduces interior glass reflectivity, ensuring clearer nighttime views while providing enhanced sun protection and privacy.
Film Shade Optivision Reflective 5 Optivision Reflective 15
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) 8% 15%
Visible Light Reflectance (Exterior/Interior) 55% / 15% 47% / 21%
Glare Reduction 91% 84%
Total Solar Energy Rejected (TSER) 78% 73%
UV Rejection 99% 99%

Warranty

Madico residential films are covered by a manufacturers warranty in North America. Specific warranty details can be obtained from authorized dealers.

Both Solar Gard and Madico offer high-quality ceramic and dual-reflective window films with various shades and performance characteristics. Your choice should align with your specific requirements regarding aesthetics, performance, and warranty preferences.

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