Benefits of Window Film
A variety of window films are available, depending on what you’re looking for. These films can improve building energy efficiency, reduce glare and protect your property from vandalism and natural disasters.
Many professional installers offer a warranty on their work, and will ensure the film is applied correctly (without bubbles or wrinkles) and that it properly adheres to the glass surface. Alternatively, you can choose to self-install the film.
Improved Energy Efficiency
Window film blocks the harmful ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) rays that can enter your home or business, while still allowing desirable visible light to decorative window film pass through. It can also help reduce fading and save energy costs.
Metalized or dual-reflective window films contain microscopic pieces of metal that reflect heat and UV rays similar to a mirror, which reduces interior heat gain and glare. They have a silver or bronze appearance and can be a cost effective option for energy control.
Ceramic window films are more expensive but offer a higher level of performance by reflecting and absorbing infrared energy. They have a natural, matte finish and can increase daylighting without sacrificing privacy or comfort. The energy performance of window film is determined by its Visible Transmittance (VT) and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). Choose products with lower SHGC values if you live in a warm climate. Also look for a low emissivity value, which indicates how much of the sun’s heat is reflected back into the building, an important consideration for cold climates.
Reduced Glare
Glare can cause a number of problems in your home and office. Often times it can be distracting, and sometimes it can even be dangerous – for example, many car accidents are caused by glare from the windows of homes that blind drivers and prevent them from noticing obstacles in the road.
Window film reduces glare by absorbing or reflecting the visible light that passes through your windows. This results in less light bouncing around the room and being reflected off of your TV or computer screen. Window films can also help reduce the amount of heat that is transferred through the glass, helping to keep your home or office a more comfortable temperature.
Window Film will also filter out the majority of the suns potentially harmful UV rays, which is one of the leading causes of fading in furniture, flooring and other items. Window film can therefore reduce fading by 99% or more when compared to untreated glass. Unlike curtains or blinds, window film is installed directly onto your windows and immediately starts to offer benefits.
Increased Safety
While reducing glare and lowering air conditioning costs are the primary benefits of window film, it can also be used to reduce the risk of glass breakage in your home. When normal float glass breaks, it produces sharp shards that can cause injury. Safety film holds shattered glass in place, preventing dangerous shards from flying around and cutting people or damaging furniture, woodwork or paintings. Security window film also acts as a deterrent to burglars because it is much harder to break through than untreated glass.
There are many types of window films on the market, ranging from clear safety to decorative solar control films. It is important to select the right film for your needs, as not all products are created equal. Be sure to ask for specifics about visible transmittance and reflective index values, as these are critical factors in determining how bright your rooms will appear with the window film installed.
It is recommended that you hire a professional to install your window film, as they have the experience and tools needed to ensure that the installation process goes smoothly (without bubbles or wrinkles) and that the finished product will be durable and attractive. If you choose to do it yourself, make sure that you thoroughly clean the windows and remove any objects that could get in the way of installing the film.
Decorative
Decorative window films are not only functional, but they also add a creative touch to interior glass windows and partitions. Available in a variety of designs, prints and patterns with different levels of opacity, decorative glass film allows daylight to filter in while creating privacy and design elements.
Frosted window films are popular choices for homes and offices, adding a privacy element with a frosted texture that diffuses light without obscuring visibility. Patterned window film options include geometric patterns, contemporary barcode stripes and etched sparkles that offer a unique accent to interior design.
For office spaces and conference rooms, patterned window film helps to reduce glare while displaying the company logo. Static cling window film is easy to apply, but requires a clean, dust and moisture-free surface. Adhesive window film is a more complex application that requires professional installation. A squeegee is recommended to remove air bubbles and ensure a smooth surface.
Increased Value
A professional installation of window film can add a significant amount of value to your home. It not only looks great but can also help reduce your energy bills by helping to control the sun’s rays and heat. Window film also helps to protect valuable belongings such as furnishings and artwork from fading due to extended Ultraviolet rays exposure.
Window films are available in a variety of Glass Window Film attractive tints and finishes that cultivate greater curb appeal and offer subtle interior effects, like reduced glare. They can even add value by qualifying you for tax credits.
The demand for architectural window films in North America is expected to be driven by the recovery in commercial construction activities after the pandemic. This is largely due to the increasing expansion of small-scale businesses, infrastructure development and renovation of government offices in the region. Additionally, it is attributed to the improved economic conditions of consumers and the rapid urbanization in developing countries.