Popular Questions and Answers Asked About Window Films
What Is Window Film?
Most window films are constructed with several layers, the main layer being a high-quality polyester. Depending on the type of film, most of our window films are metallised using sputtering technology. This process embeds metal particles such as silver, stainless steel, copper, gold, titanium and chromium into a polyester film. Finally, the films are coated using special adhesives, ultraviolet inhibitors and then protected by a scratch-resistant coating. This ensures a long lasting colour and excellent solar performance.
How is window film applied?
Clean the glass. Measure the glass panel and cut the window film oversize. Remove the backing sheet from the film. Spray the glass and adhesive side of the film using a mild soapy water solution. Using a squeegee apply the film on to the glass to remove the excess water and bubbles. Trim the excess edges of the film using a sharp utility knife and dry with a soft lint-free cloth.
Please see our DIY instruction or YouTube video
Whilst small applications are possible by any keen DIYer or tradesman, we would certainly recommend employing a professional company for larger applications or areas where a quality finish is vital. Contact us for a quote.
How long does window film last?
The exact lifespan depends on the type of film, glass and the environment in which it is fitted. Most types of window films have a warranty of 10 years, life expectancy can be much longer, maybe 15 years and in some cases over 20 years.
What are the advantages of window film compared with ‘indoor’ solar protection methods?
Indoor solar protection methods, such as blinds or curtains, prevent visible light from getting into a room and block the view looking outside. Additionally, infrared heat accumulates between solar protection and the window. Eventually radiating heat into the room. Air conditioning is one solution, but installing and running a system to maintain a constant indoor climate can be expensive. Whereas window film reflects the solar radiation away before it enters the room.
Does window film make a room cooler?
Yes. Window film rejects levels of solar heat to provide a cooler, more comfortable climate.
Does window film cause seal failure in double glazed units?
No. A typical double glazed unit is constructed with two panes of glass with a spacer bar at the edge separating the two glass panes. A hot adhesive sealant (polyisobutylene – PIB) is applied to the face of the spacer around the edge to bond the glass and spacer bar together. This makes a double glazed unit (DGU).
The application temperature or melting point of the PIB sealant is between 185ºC to 200ºC. The surface temperature of the internal glass with a dark film such as DC 15 window film applied on the inside, facing the sun directly can only reach a maximum temperature of 49ºC and the external pane of glass would heat to a maximum of 41ºC. These figures are based on the external air temperature being 30ºC.
When glazing a DGU into a window frame, the DGU spacer bar is in a rebate behind the glazing bead. This holds the unit in place and protects the PIB from direct sunlight. The glass temperature will have to reach the melting point of the PIB sealant. An applied film cannot heat the glass enough to achieve these temperatures and there is no reason why the film would cause any thermal heat problems to the DGU’s.
Will window film reduce heat and glare?
Solar Control films are designed to reduce the sun’s solar heat, glare and ultraviolet (UV). They are available in many or tints, offering various levels of performance. Solar films can be virtually invisible or totally transform a building by giving it a uniform colour and hiding untidy looking office environments- such as the backs of work desks, wiring, etc.
Will window film make the room darker?
Most window films will reduce the excess glare from the sun like wearing sunglasses. Depending on the degree of tint used. We have a wide range of window films from virtually invisible to the dark tinted films, that will not make your room dark on a sunny day. Some solar control films may affect light levels but as your eyes automatically adjust to different light levels, the degree is generally much less than traditional window blinds or curtains.
Can window film reduce my energy bills?
Demand for creating a better environment has never been so high. Many companies have made a corporate pledge to reduce energy consumption and the carbon footprint, others driven by increasing energy costs and the impact on profits.
With the proven heat-rejection properties of window film, you can eliminate “hot spots” and extreme peaks in air conditioning demands at certain times of the day. Interior temperatures are more controllable and stable, allowing cooling systems to work within the capacity and consume less energy. Investing in our films offers a quick payback, with a 25% reduction in energy costs.
Can window film reduce heat loss out through my windows?
Most of a building’s heat can be lost through its glazing, increasing winter heating costs. Low-E insulation film applied to your existing windows will reflect radiated heat back into your room, increasing comfort and reducing fuel heating bills.
What effect does window film have on visibility through the windows? From the inside looking out? From the outside looking in?
Most window films maintain visibility looking out through the windows, some films are practically invisible once installed, allowing lots of natural visible light to enter a room. From the outside, it complements the exterior of any building. We have a range of films from virtually invisible to soft, neutral hues and darker films for privacy stopping passers-by from outside looking in.
Can I clean the window after a film is applied?
Yes, using a soft, clean cloth or paper towel to clean and the same or a rubber squeegee to dry. Use a mild detergent or every-day glass cleaning solutions. Basically, avoid using abrasive tools/cleaners and chemicals.
Will window film heat up my double glazed units and cause the glass to shatter or break?
No, window films alone do not cause the glass to break or shatter. However, we do understand that the application of some films will increase the temperature of your glass to increase, which in turn will increase the stress on the glass edges. The quality of those glass edges is out with our control. There are several factors to consider before installing window film (external shading, interior shading, glass breakage history, type of window film being used, type, size and shape of the glass, indoor-outdoor temperature) all contribute to the potential risk of glass breakage. Combined with our many years of experience, in applying window films to different types of glass and buildings, enables us to make proper judgments and a full risk assessment before any installation. Only after this will we advise the correct film to be used and guarantee its suitability, this minimises the potential for glass breakage.
What happens if I want it removed?
Easy. The film itself can be pulled from the glass which will generally leave adhesive residue on the glass. This is removed by spraying with soapy water and using a razor scraper. No need for any over-powering adhesive removers.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask. We would be happy to help
Call us on 01428 751004 or email us at sales@windowfilmsuk.com