FAQ

Do solar screens pay for themselves? 

Yes, since solar screens save energy, they normally will pay for themselves within a short period of time by reducing energy consumption. They will increase the life of your air conditioning system by reducing the cooling workload.  For maximum energy efficiency, solar screens should be installed on all windows and doors. If you do not have the budget to do the complete home, cover the west side with StarShades. You will get the biggest bang for the buck and quickly recoup your investment. Later you can complete your home.

Will solar screens block my view? 

In homes where lighting is crucial, an 80% textilene solar fabric provides plenty of sun control while allowing full visibility. It is much easier to see through a solar screen than a closed blind or curtain.

Can people see into my home? 

Solar screens offer complete daytime privacy. You are able to open your blinds and windows and no one will be able to see into your home. Wherever the light source is strongest, the other side of the screen becomes opaque. At night if you have lights on in your home and no outside light on, people will be able to see in.

Are all solar screens the same? 

Yes and No. At the basic level, all solar screens consist of solar fabric stretched over an aluminum frame. Most companies offer a 5/16” x 1” frame, and then it is installed by screwing through the solar screen into your window frame. This voids the window manufacturer's warranty on a new home or replacement windows. StarShades are offered in three different frame styles: 5/16” x 1”, 7/16” x 1” and 1 3/16 x 1”. When it comes to windows, one size does not fit all. StarShades have no plastic in their construction. A matching cross-bar is installed where the window naturally breaks to give the screen added strength. Every corner is made of heavy duty solid aluminum and the frame is miter cut at 45 degrees making StarShades stronger and longer lasting that our competitors. A much thicker, stronger spline is used to secure the fabric to the frame. StarShades are installed with color matching metal wing clips and screws making them easy to remove and replace without damaging the screen or your windows.

Should I take my solar screens off in winter? 

No. There are less daytime hours in the winter. Generally, it is more overcast, limiting your chances of passive solar heating. Solar screens also create air cushion barrier, keeping the cold winter winds off your glass, therefore keeping the temperature of the glass warmer. The warmer the glass, the less convection heat you need to pump through your home to the glass areas, conserving energy.

What protections do solar screens offer? 

By stopping harmful UV solar rays, StarShades prevent fading and discoloration of your curtains, carpets and furniture. They also protect precious photographs and expensive artwork from washing out. A 90% textilene StarShade can lower the temperature of window glass more than 30 degrees.

Should I use the 80% or the 90% screening?  

If you want more light, better airflow and visibility, you should go with 80%. If you want more glare reduction and energy efficiency you should go with the 90%. Putting 90% on the real problem areas and 80% on less problem areas aesthetically will not look different on the exterior.

Are your estimates really free? 

Yes. When you telephone or email from our website, an appointment will be made for a time and day convenient for you to meet with one of our solar screen experts. You will receive an on-the-spot price and are under no obligation or pressure to buy.

Do you offer military discounts? 

We appreciate the service and sacrifices made by current and retired members of America’s armed forces and their families. StarShade humbly offers discounts to our nation’s finest citizens. We also offer senior citizen and quanity discounts.

Are solar screens eligible for rebates? 

StarShade Solar Screen Mfg. is an authorized rebate contractor for both CPS & GVEC. All paperwork needed for either rebate program is provided. StarShade solar screens also qualify for federal tax credits under the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Are StarShade solar screens easily removed and how are they installed? 

Yes, all of our screens are installed with either a friction fit metal spring or a metal wing nut. Simply give a turn or two to the phillips-head screw and turn the wing nut. It is that simple.

How long will my solar screens last?  

StarShade offers a non-transferable ten year warranty on parts, labor and installation. Textilene fabric comes with a limited lifetime warranty for as long as you live in your home.

Do you require a deposit?  

No. When the installation is complete, payment is made.

How long does it take to get solar screens?  

Usually we can measure, custom build and professionally install StarShades within a week.

Do you have financing? 

Yes. We have NO INTEREST financing available.