Have a Question? Eco Window Films Has the Answer.
Here you’ll find answers to the questions we’re most frequently asked about window films. If you have a question that isn’t addressed below, click here to contact us by email and we’ll get back to you just as quickly as we can.
What is window film? Is there more than one type?
Window film is a flexible product composed of oneor more layers of coated or chemically treated polyester that can be installed on glass. It is primarily used for retrofit applications to existing windows.
There are several types of window film products; each type is designed for a particular end use. These include solar control films, insulating films, ultraviolet (UV) blocking films, safety/security films, glare control/privacy films, and decorative films.
Quality window films offer up to 99% UV protection, and solar control films are available with different levels of insulation improvement.
What are the benefits of window film?
Solar-control films can block as much as 80% of the solar heat coming through glass, thus decreasing the heat load on the air conditioning system and reducing energy costs. Professionally installed window film can reduce cooling costs by up to 30%.
Films can be darker for glare control or privacy purposes or appear almost totally clear, depending on the required building and customer needs. More than 250 solar control films are National Fenestration Rating Council-certified, so users can be assured of the energy performance potential of the window film. Safety/security films and solar-control films offer up to 99% UV protection as a standard feature.
Safety/security window film works when glass breaks, controlling the post-break behavior of the broken fragments, generally by holding the pieces together attached to the film. This may greatly enhance the safety of building occupants and protection of furnishings/interiors from damage caused by broken and/or flying glass pieces. These products can be used to bring unprotected glass up to certified safety standards for impact by objects and humans; enhanced blast protection, such as from a chemical explosion; and other events that create hazards from broken glass.
Decorative films can be used to make standard glass look like frosted, etched, or patterned glass in colors or in white or black matte looks, enhancing aesthetics and privacy. Although not designed specifically for that purpose, standard solar control films and decorative films have the ability to minimize a portion of flying glass fragments should the glass ever break.
Does window film prevent fading of fabrics?
It is estimated 40% to 60% percent of fade is caused by exposure to UV energy; the use of window film with its UV blocking ability can prevent up to 99% of that contribution to fading. Other factors that contribute to fading are visible light and heat, so the glare reduction and energy savings properties of window film can further reduce the rate of fading that might otherwise occur.
How is window film installed? Would a facility need to be offline for a length of time?
For best results and to obtain the maximum manufacturer’s warranty coverage, a skilled professional window film company should install it. Installation of the film can be done on a room-by-room basis during normal business hours or after hours with little to no disruption to normal operations.
How long will window film last?
Window films typically have at least a five year manufacturer’s warranty, but products today generally come with 10 to 20 years of warranty coverage from the manufacturer, dependent on the specific film and intended use. Most residential sun control window films come with a lifetime warranty. The U.S. Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program’s software uses a 15 year life expectancy for low- to medium-price window films on windows in older buildings. Ultimately, the actual life of quality window films may greatly exceed the warranty period.
Does window film require special care/maintenance/cleaning methods once it is in place?
Installed window films can be cleaned with normal non-abrasive, non-corrosive cleaning liquids and soft paper towels just as would be used to clean glass.The films have a scratch resistant surface like the scratch resistant lenses found in many eyeglasses today.
Is there still a benefit to window films when a facility already has high performance glass?
Adding window film is like adding an extra layer of energy efficiency for increased savings. Already have double pane glass? Add a layer of window film and, in effect, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of triple pane glass.