How Window Film Can Enhance the Beauty of Your Windows
Decorative window film allows the beauty of etched glass to be achieved at a fraction of the cost. It also provides privacy without changing the look of a building.
Safety and security films hold broken glass shards in place preventing serious injury to occupants. They can even help prevent vandalism and weather damage.
Energy Efficiency
The benefits of windows are many, but excessive sunlight and heat gain can wreak havoc on your energy bills. Window film significantly reduces solar heat, allowing interior spaces to maintain an optimal temperature. This results in reduced cooling loads, less wear and tear on HVAC equipment and a decrease in costly repairs and replacements. Window film also helps to mitigate fading of furnishings and fabrics by blocking damaging ultraviolet light.
Window films are an affordable alternative to replacing existing windows and are designed for a quick payback. Depending on Glass Window Film the type of window film selected, energy savings are up to 68% compared to existing glass.
When comparing window film options it is important to review the Visible Light Transmission (VLT), emissivity, and U factor. A film’s VLT is how much light it allows through and its emissivity measures how much heat passes through, higher values mean more heat is transferred which is often desired in cold climates.
Energy efficient films are available in a variety of finishes and tints and offer a wide range of aesthetic choices. Decorative window films provide the distinctive look of etched glass at a fraction of the cost and safety & security film products hold glass shards in place should a break, preventing serious injury.
Safety
Whether you’re a homeowner trying to protect your family against break-ins and natural disasters or a business owner looking for ways to keep employees, customers or tenants safe, safety window film can be an effective solution. By holding broken glass together rather than shattering into dangerous shards, security window films help reduce injuries from accidents, airborne debris and seismic tremors.
Some safety films also feature a privacy coating that changes the appearance of windows to prevent people from seeing inside a building. This can discourage burglars because it makes it more difficult to see what’s inside a home or commercial space, and it can also limit visibility from the outside, which helps deter vandalism.
In addition to improving security and visibility, some safety window films block up to 60% of the sun’s heat, which can dramatically cut cooling costs and reduce energy consumption. Depending on the type of safety film you choose, it can also provide protection against UV rays that cause furnishings and carpets to fade over time.
When installing window film, it’s important to prepare the glass surface before applying it to ensure a long-lasting and even application. Start by washing the glass with a soap solution and squeegee it dry to remove any lingering dirt or oil. Then, use a Glass Window Film utility knife to trim the film 1” larger than the window size. This will allow you to avoid putting the film on the glass and pulling it up while removing the excess film.
Aesthetics
When deciding whether to choose window film that reduces glare and solar heat or one that enhances the aesthetics of your windows, there are many factors to consider. You may want to save money on energy, create a layer of safety and security or control light and glare. A skilled window film installation professional can help you weigh these options and pick the option that is best for your property.
Decorative window films are an easy way to upgrade glass surfaces in commercial spaces and residential properties without the cost of complete remodeling or repainting. These flat window films are available in an array of colors, textures and designs that will transform your space. From floral patterns to geometric designs, these decorative film options are endless. Some styles even allow you to cut out your company logo and display it on the windows for a custom look.
For an elegant alternative to etched glass, consider 3M(tm) FASARA Glass Finishes. These frosted privacy window films offer the advantages of etched, cut, sandblasted and textured glass at a fraction of the cost. With over 50+ designs, these window films can be customized to meet your specific privacy needs and are easily applied with a clear synthetic liner that makes removal of the film if needed a breeze. Creating more privacy within your workspace and enhancing interiors has never been easier than with these simple, yet effective, window film solutions.
Maintenance
Although window film does not require a great deal of maintenance, there are a few mistakes that can be made that will lead to problems. It is important to clean and dry the windows regularly. The best way to clean is with a soft sponge and a rubber squeegee, especially in areas that are difficult to reach. It is also important to be careful not to apply too much pressure as this can change the appearance of the window film.
The type of cleanser used is also crucial. It is a good idea to avoid ammonia-based solutions as these can damage the adhesive that holds the window film in place. Instead, a basic glass cleaner will work just fine. If you have a glass cleaner spray bottle, this is ideal as it will help to avoid spraying the cleaning solution directly onto the window film. It is also a good idea to avoid using bristle brushes, abrasive sponges and course paper towels.
A silicone polish can also be applied to the interior of window film on a regular basis. This will not only keep it looking lustrous, but it will also protect the surface from scratching. It is a good idea to check the quality of your silicone polish on a regular basis and choose one that is free from contaminants that can damage the film.