Large expanses of glass are hailed for their ability to let daylight deep into a building. But although we all appreciate the benefit of natural light, large amounts of glazing can create problems in some buildings, particularly in summer; while they can also leave a premises open to security breaches, unless additional measures are taken to ensure buildings are protected.
One cost-effective way of dealing with these problems is to fit window film. As a simple retro-fit, window films can solve a number of issues, including anti-shatter treatments, depending on the type selected for fitting.
Reflective films can be specified to reduce solar gain, and can be deployed on atrium roofs, conservatories, glazed corridors and large areas of windows to reduce the amount of heat entering the building. The consequential effect on the building interior will improve the comfort of occupants, as well as reducing the summer cooling load and the cost of running air conditioning systems.
Window films that reflect solar gain can have a minimal effect on the appearance of a building, something that is particularly valuable in situations where historic buildings are listed or in a conservation area. Alternatively, if required window films can provide additional levels of shading. For situations where additional privacy is required, window films can be provided with a reflective finish, allowing those inside to be able to see out, while preventing passers-by from having a view of the interior.
As a safety film, a protective coating is useful in a variety of situations, particularly in public buildings. Where there is glazing at low level, or where large areas of glass have been installed, it may be sensible to fit an anti-shatter treatment. Then, should anything or anyone bump into the glazing and it is damaged by the impact, the safety film will act to hold the glass together, minimising the potential for injury from sharp edges. In situations where large patio doors are fitted, the glazed panels may be rendered practically invisible in certain light conditions and so it is often advisable to install some form of anti-shatter film that renders the glazing visible.
Anti-shatter treatments are also suitable for use in industrial and high risk environments, where they can be applied to prevent glazing disintegrating and causing personal injury. They can also be a sensible precaution in situations where a building may be considered a potential terrorist target. The anti-shatter film will help retain the integrity of a glass panel, should it be damaged by a blast or physical attack, reducing the risk of injury for building occupants. This enables a building's appearance to be retained, while increasing its resistance to attack.
Pentagon Protection - Window Film, Security and Solar Control Film