FAQs
What is window film?
Window film is a base of clear polyester that is either dyed, extruded or metalised. Window film has a range of benefits including reducing heat and glare from the sun, increasing comfort and security and minimising energy usage.
Can window film reduce my energy costs?
Yes. The use of air conditioning in the UK has rocketed by 60% in the past 20 years, but air conditioners are not efficient. Using them to cool a building often uses significantly more energy than it does to heat one. A simple application of an energy saving window film can reduce operating costs by cutting down on the need for air conditioning and cooling systems.
Why does one way film not work at night?
"I want to see out, but want to prevent able to see in" is a common remark heard almost on a daily basis by anyone involved in the business of supplying or installing window film. The reality however is quite different than simply applying a layer of reflective window film to a pane of glass to achieve one way vision. The secret lies not in the film or the glass, but in the prevailing lighting conditions. Buildings with 'mirrored' windows are now a common sight in most of our towns and cities. This is usually glass treated at point of manufacture with a reflective coating, or windows that have been retrospectively coated with a reflective solar control window film. The reason why these windows appear mirrored from the outside yet can be viewed through from the inside is due to their metallised coating and the differential in external and internal light levels. There is absolutely no exception to this rule. One way/ two way vision glass or film does not work by magic, but simply by the laws of science.
What are the legal requirements for maximum temperatures in the workplace?
Maximum permitted temperatures in the workplace depend on what activity is take place in a given place of work. For example manual work will require lower temperatures than an office. The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) web site provides some definitive guidance here. The Business Advisory Service advises "Apply sun-control or other reflective films on south-facing windows to reduce solar heat gain." It is generally accepted that thermal comfort for most people in the UK lies roughly between 13°C (56°F) and 30°C (86°F), with acceptable temperatures for physical work activities erring towards the lower range, and for less physical activities towards the higher end.
Can I install window film myself?
Although it is possible for a practical person to install standard window film, an experienced technician is recommended. Apart from ensuring an acceptable aesthetic finish, you can benefit from a full warranty, typically 10 years.
Is window film suitable for new and existing buildings?
Yes. However, its greatest use is being retrofitted to existing buildings.
My conservatory is too hot. Can solar control window film stop my conservatory overheating?
The use of a high-performance window film will dramatically reduce overheating, making the conservatory a much more comfortable environment.
Is safety window film bullet proof?
Window film is not bullet proof, blast proof or burglar proof. However, it will give a greater level of safety and security when used for these purposes.
How is window film maintained?
Window film should be cleaned in a similar way to glass, using a soapy water solution and squeegee. Abrasives of any type should be avoided.
Do I need planning permission?
No. Planning permission is not normally required to apply window film.
Does window film improve both U and G values?
Yes. Window film will improve both the heat gain and heat loss properties of the glazing system.
What causes ‘unexplained glass breakage’ of toughened glass?
Spontaneous glass breakage is a phenomenon by which toughened glass (or tempered) may spontaneously break without any apparent reason. Where there is no obvious reason for the glass breakage such as it being hit by a stone or vandalism, nickle sulphide inclusions are often the reason for the glass to break. This can happen even in newly installed glass, resulting from the presence of nickel contaminants in the glass melt reacting with sulphur, most likely from the furnace fuel. During thermal toughening, these inclusions undergo a crystalline phase change to a smaller form and are fixed in place within the glass upon cooling. The inclusions can grow and can eventually impart enough stress in the glass to cause spontaneous failure.