Window Films – Everything You Need To Know

Window films have been around in various guises for several years now, and their use is constantly evolving. Yet because you often can’t see them, you wouldn’t know they are there.

Sleeker and more modern than curtains, and more flexible than blinds, they can be used wherever privacy, glare or excess heat is a concern – or even to upgrade the look of windows.

Window films work well in any building and with all types of window... here are just some of the ways they can be used.

Maintaining A Comfortable Environment

While natural light is always a valuable resource, sometimes it can become too much, either in terms of heat or brightness. A useful option in this case is solar control window film. Something like 3M Prestige is a technologically advanced product that helps to maintain a cool inside temperature without being cold, obscuring the view, or sacrificing natural light.

The film can be retrofitted to existing glass, with external installation recommended to ensure the best possible performance in heat gain reduction, although internal window films are available for when building access is more difficult.

Silver window films are also effective immediately once installed and use a mirrored effect on the glass’s external to reflect some the sun’s rays, preventing the interior from getting too warm. Perfect when you need maximum results, and you don’t mind the mirror look on the building exterior.

Another downside of too much natural light is glare, especially for those working near windows – and it’s a year-round problem. Anti-glare window film can help, with the most effective versions reducing glare by up to 79 per cent. Unlike blinds or curtains, this is achieved while still maintaining a degree of natural light and without obscuring the view from the inside out.

Privacy Issues

Window films are also beneficial at addressing privacy concerns, especially if your team work on sensitive material.

There are a number of easy-to-install options for adding privacy to windows, including frosted film, which creates the illusion of acid etched or sandblasted glass, blocking the view both ways while allowing natural light in. As well as offering privacy, it is also extremely durable and moisture resistant, making it ideal for bathrooms and shower screens.

Should you only need one-way privacy, reflective window film gives the outside face of the glass a mirrored look, while allowing an unobscured view from the other side.

Safety First

Physical security is also often a concern, with windows often seen as the weakest link.

Whether during a break-in or in acts of terrorism or vandalism, most damage to people can come from shards of flying glass, while a broken window also allows for unwanted access to a building.

However, there are window films on the market that can protect against this issue, particularly in commercial spaces, such as 3M’s “Ultra Window Film.

This incredibly secure film is made up of numerous micro-layers of film, a scratch resistant surface, and strong acrylic adhesive. It has been engineered to hold glass fragments together whenever extreme or sudden force is applied, reducing the risk of injury caused by flying glass.

Not only does this have the benefit of protecting people in the event of a terror attack, but it also provides everyday reassurance against other common threats such as vandalism and forced entry into buildings.

Working With Film

Lindsay Appleton, marketing manager at Architextural, part of the William Smith Group 1832, said: “Window films have so many uses in a commercial environment, and can be retrofitted quickly, easily and cost-effectively.

“Using window films means offices don’t have to be shut away in darkness, or have the air conditioning on full blast, to maintain a comfortable and secure environment. There is such a wide range of designs on offer too, meaning there’s something to suit all types of operation.”

Architextural, part of William Smith Group 1832 Ltd, is the master distributor of 3M Window Films in the UK, stocking all of the safety and solar windows in the 3M portfolio.

It has recently launched a dedicated window film website, What Window Film, to offer the latest advice, news and product ranges, as well as a database of authorised 3M Window Film dealers, who can facilitate the supply and install for any project.

Lindsay added: “The service we provide goes much further than simply providing a list of stockists of window film. Our expert team are on hand every step of the way, from advising on the best film for the issues at hand, to pointing you in the direction of an authorised dealer who can facilitate the supply and installation of the project, and even giving you the technical information you need.”

For more information, visit https://whatwindowfilm.co.uk/