Anytime window film is requested for a residential application it is because there are five basic problems.
- Heat
- Glare
- Fading
- Privacy
- Security
Let’s break down each of these:
Heat
Window film is a very good choice to help with cooling down a room or the entire structure. The film works by reflecting and absorbing the heat from the sun. But, using a dark film will pose problems which is why it is very important to understand the type of glass and frames the film will be installed on. Lighter films 25% and up will work very well to control the unwanted heat.
Glare
Glare is light and to knock down glare you do need a dark film. But, as stated in the previous paragraph, it is very important to understand the type of glass and frame before installing a dark film to control glare.
Fading
Window film is a great deterrent for fading, the film will not stop fading but will greatly reduce potential fading. To best understand this, refer to the UV Protection section on this website.
Privacy
Achieving privacy using window films is sometimes a tricky thing to accomplish. The main reason being is potential heat absorption, since most people want privacy at night and to do so is to install dark films. Or, films like white frost can be used and are very popular for bathroom privacy. This type of film will give privacy for both night and day.
Security
Security films range from 2 mil clear to 14 mil clear and some even have metal added for heat rejection. The question on security films is what are you trying to accomplish? Forced entry is the most common for residential applications, this is typically a 4 mil to 8 mil application and is designed to slow down a potential intruder.
Another common security film request is windstorm protection, these films will be 7 mil or 8 mil and the purpose is to hold the glass together in the event of flying debris striking the window.
Generally, the films 8 mil and up are used for commercial security specs and have been rigorously tested to meet those criteria. I will touch on the commercial side of window film use in a different article.
So, in closing, I hope this article sheds some light on the general reasons for window films for a residential application.