THE BASICS
In basic terms, window film is a solar control product that is composed of a thin, durable sheet of polyester laminate treated specifically to enhance the look or performance of existing windows upon application. The film has two sides and is applied to the interior surface of existing windows as a retrofit. One side of the film has an adhesive that bonds the film to the glass surface making sure as with retrofit, the film is properly adhered to the glass. The other side of the film has a scratch-resistant coating that can withstand even the harshest outside conditions.
There is a variety of window film that serves different functions in diverse industries such as automotive, RV, and marine as well as home and commercial building improvement applications. Window glasses are versatile in design and performance, there are films designed to improve safety and security of windows and decorative glass enhancements which will inspire and transform the look of any room.
HOW ARE WINDOW FILMS USED?
ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND SAVINGS
One of the best kept secrets about window film is its significant effect on energy savings and efficiency. A home or commercial building that is kept comfortable year-long for its occupants requires the use of a HVAC system. Most windows are poor insulators of heat, an estimated 30% of heat passes through window openings, straining the load of the HVAC system. For a home or commercial building to gain more energy efficiency, it needs window film technology to act as an insulator. Window film is a great option to regulate the temperature of your space, it keeps heat out in the summer and conserves heat in the winter. The result is a reduced workload on the HVAC system, which amounts to energy savings on the utility bill and a more comfortable space year-round.
GLARE REDUCTION
The current style of architecture makes large windows a desirable feature for a home or commercial building. While large windows provide an abundance of light and open up a space, they also contribute to annoying glare at certain times of the day. Glare can strain the eyes and make using personal devices with screens difficult and cumbersome. When ultra-clear window film with distortion-free materials is applied to the windows, it can reduce glare by up to 87% making daily tasks and workflow more enjoyable for the occupant. The window film is nearly invisible to the eye, which means a better view with more comfort.
PROTECTION OF FURNISHINGS
It is a fact that sun damage can deteriorate furnishings and interior fixtures. However, most homeowners believe that the sun’s UV rays are the culprit of damaged floors, furniture, and furnishings. A look at the chart below illustrates, that while UV rays are a main component of fading, these harmful rays account for 40% of the damage. Other major contributors to deterioration of interior fixtures are solar heat and visible light, each causing approximately 25% of damage respectively. There is an “other” component on the chart, which takes into account factors that are harder to control such as interior lighting, humidity etc. These factors are not major overall contributors however they are harder to control than solar counterparts.
Fading is an inevitable process, that is hard to control over time, unless you place the item you want to protect in a dark, climate-controlled room. Typically, furniture and fixture fade over time due to the exposure to the elements. One of the things you can do to attack the major contributors of fading is install window film in your home or commercial building. This technologically-advanced product will filter harmful UV rays which will slow down the fading process and extend the life span of your floors or furnishings. Fight against sun damage and fading with window film.
BRAND OR DECORATE WINDOW GLASS
Make a statement with your window glass by installing decorative window film. Your imagination is the limit as decorative window films come in frosted, tinted, or colored varieties at various opacity levels. This will ensure that you get the privacy you need with an abundance of natural light. Window film is a great tool for branding the windows of a company or customizing a commercial space with designs, prints, or patterns. These customizations can include desirable styles that resemble cut or texturized glass- at a fraction of the price. The benefits of using window film for decorative purposes is that it is easy to clean, durable, and easy to replace and install without damaging glass.
SAFETY & SECURITY
Windows are a great feature in any home or commercial space that provide an abundance of natural light, yet their fragility makes them the most vulnerable part of any buildings. Windows are targets, easy points of entry for unwanted intruders, that present danger to the occupants and property inside the building. Furthermore, in a state of emergency, whether man-made or natural, flying shards from windows are the leading cause of occupant injuries and death. In the event of bomb blasts or terrorist attacks, it is important to know the occupants are protected. The professional installation of safety and security window glass buys precious time in case of an intrusion, that may deter the criminal and lead him to move on to an easier target. The glass is reinforced so it prevents shattering and flying shards of glass from harming occupants.
If you have any questions, contact Energy Control Consultants today in Knoxville at 865-947-3013, or in Chattanooga at 423-994-0285. You can also email us at info@coolsunlight.com.
