June 23, 2017 - Windows & Exterior Walls
By Michael Mancini
Window film is an often overlooked means of increasing energy efficiency and providing protection. It’s virtually invisible, relatively quick and inexpensive to install, and works around the clock to improve security and safety. Plus, it improves the energy efficiency of the facility and can boost the productivity of the building’s occupants.
Here are three major benefits window film provides commercial and institutional facilities:
• Improves Safety Measures: Windows and doors are any building’s main point of entry, even for those who are uninvited. Safety window films can help reduce property loss and damage in the event of a burglary attempt by making it far more difficult for criminals to penetrate the building through glass doors and windows. When window film is applied, the glass will likely break upon impact but the film will hold the broken glass together, making it much harder for an intruder to gain access.
In the unlikely and unfortunate event of a natural disaster or extreme weather event, safety and security window film will help minimize damage to property and occupants. Professionally installed window film helps prevent flying glass and other debris from entering the building during a disaster by holding the broken glass in place. Flying shards of glass can result in serious injuries, often inflicting deep wounds. Installing protective window film greatly decreases the chance of injury if windows were to shatter.
• Increases Productivity for Occupants: Window film lets in natural daylight, but blocks 99 percent of the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays, and up to 82 of the sun’s heat. Sun beaming in through the windows can be harmful to the building’s occupants. Window film can solve this problem and make it easier for employees to get their jobs done comfortably. Sunlight also produces glare on computer screens, tablets, and other devices. With professionally installed window film, glare is greatly reduced. Window film also protects the building’s furnishings and flooring, prolonging their life and delaying the need for replacement.
• Reduces Energy Costs: When window film is installed, the stress on the HVAC system is greatly reduced. Film keeps the cool air inside during summer months and limits heat loss during the winter months. These benefits can ultimately result in lower utility bills for facility managers. Window film installation also costs a fraction of new window replacement and goes a long way toward reducing a building’s carbon footprint.
Professionally installed window film can provide benefits for facilities for years to come. When choosing a window film provider, make sure you work with a company that’s experienced. A professional installer will be able to determine if there are unique or unusual circumstances within your facility that would make one film better than another.
Michael Mancini is the director of marketing for Madico, Inc. in St. Petersburg, Fla. He can be reached at mmancini@madico.com.
