Blog / Comparison Guide
Solar Screens vs Window Tint: Which is Better for Las Vegas?
Comparing the two most popular exterior heat-blocking solutions for desert homes.
Updated December 2025 | By Shutters Cheap
Quick Answer:
Solar screens block more heat (up to 90% vs 35-80%) because they stop sun before it hits your glass. Window tint provides clearer views but less heat blocking. For maximum Las Vegas cooling, solar screens win - but both are effective solutions.
How They Work Differently
Solar Screens
Mounted outside your window. Block heat before it reaches the glass. Like putting a shade umbrella over your window - the sun never touches the glass.
Heat blocked: Up to 90%
Window Tint/Film
Applied directly to glass. Filters UV and some heat as it passes through. The glass still absorbs heat and radiates it into your home.
Heat blocked: 35-80%
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Solar Screens | Window Tint | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat blocking | 80-90% | 35-80% | Solar Screens |
| UV blocking | 80-90% | 99% | Tint |
| Outward visibility | Reduced | Clear | Tint |
| Cost (10 windows) | $800-$1,500 | $600-$1,800 | Tie |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years | 5-10 years | Solar Screens |
| HOA approval | Usually yes | Usually yes* | Tie |
| Removable | Yes, easily | Difficult | Solar Screens |
| Night privacy | Moderate | None | Solar Screens |
*Reflective/mirrored tint often prohibited by HOAs
Energy Savings Comparison
Based on a typical 2,000 sq ft Las Vegas home with 10 west-facing windows:
Solar Screens (90%)
- Summer AC reduction: 25-35%
- Annual savings: $300-$600
- ROI: 2-3 years
Window Tint (70%)
- Summer AC reduction: 15-25%
- Annual savings: $150-$400
- ROI: 3-5 years
When to Choose Solar Screens
Solar screens are better when:
- Maximum heat blocking is priority - Nothing beats 90% heat rejection
- West or south-facing windows - These get intense afternoon sun
- You want seasonal flexibility - Remove in winter for passive solar heating
- Budget is a concern - Lower cost per square foot
- You want privacy - Screens provide daytime privacy from outside
When to Choose Window Tint
Window tint is better when:
- View preservation is priority - Tint is nearly invisible
- East-facing windows - Morning sun is less intense
- You want UV protection - 99% UV blocking protects furniture
- Clean exterior aesthetic - Nothing visible from outside
- You have dual-pane windows - Tint won't void warranties (check first)
The Ultimate Combo
Pro Tip: Use Both!
For maximum protection on west-facing windows, install solar screens PLUS interior shutters. Solar screens block 90% of heat outside, shutters add another layer of insulation inside. This combo can reduce cooling costs by 40-50% on those brutal afternoon sun walls.
Las Vegas-Specific Recommendations
| Window Direction | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| West-facing | 90% solar screens - intense afternoon sun |
| South-facing | 80% solar screens or window tint - all-day exposure |
| East-facing | Window tint - morning sun less intense, preserve view |
| North-facing | Neither needed - minimal direct sun |
Get a Free Assessment
Not sure which is right for your home? We'll evaluate your windows, sun exposure, and goals to recommend the best solution. We install solar screens and can advise on window tint even though we don't install it.