A STYLISH SOLAR SOLUTION

Aug 22 2014

Roof lights are popular for a number of reasons; the expanses of glass can look good from a design point of view whilst also allowing for large levels of light to flood into the building. The flipside is that large panes of overhead glass can also create unwanted issues such as solar gain and glare. An application of window film will deliver an immediate and effective solution.

The comfort of staff and customers and the safe storage of stock are of vital importance to shops and retail outlets, so when a London based store found the temperature inside the premises to be too uncomfortable, they set about finding the cause. The cause quickly became clear. The ceiling of the store boasted a large array of glass roof lights and whilst the windows gave the property a light, stylish and contemporary feel, the constant sunshine sun beaming down on them throughout the day was resulting in high levels of solar gain. In short, the windows were making it far too hot.

A solution was sought that would mitigate against the unwanted side effects of the sun whilst still protecting the integrity and appearance of the attractive and sleek looking building.

Upon learning of the issue, The Window Film Company were able to recommend High Reflective Silver, a high performance solar film that works by reflecting away a portion of the suns energy before it enters the room, making it far more efficient and effective than traditional methods such as blinds. The film prevents the steady build-up of heat throughout the day, delivering a moderate and enjoyable internal temperature without making it feel unduly cold.

The film delivers additional benefits that are a big advantage to retail outlets. Like the majority of solar control films sold by The Window Film Company, High reflective Silver blocks out 99% of the suns UV rays. It is these rays that are the biggest contributing factor in fading (the others being heat and light) so by filtering out the UV, window film provides a fantastic way of preventing fading.

Solar control film will also help with glare, which can be a year round problem for premises with a lot of glass. An application of window film will take the edge off the light entering the premises, allowing customers to browse the store without eye-strain and providing a comfortable environment for staff to work in.

Upon further examination of this job, it became apparent that an external application of film was going to be necessary – a combination of access issues and glass type meaning that an internal fitting was unsuitable. An external grade version of the solar control film is available, delivering the same high standards of performance and appearance along with a tougher external face, protecting it against the elements it will be exposed to on the outside face of glass.

The Window Film Company’s teams of installers are fully trained and vastly experienced, allowing them to tackle external installations and fitting at height with the minimum of fuss. The project was fully scoped before attending site, allowing the installation team to take all of the necessary access equipment. The installation was completed quickly and efficiently, with no requirement for the store to close. Once complete, the film was effective immediately, working to reduce the heat, cut down on glare and reduce fading – a trio of big benefits for the retailer.

The finished installation resulted in a markedly improved internal environment coupled with a stylish and aesthetically pleasing external appearance.  For more information on how The Window Film Company can do the same for you and your property, please contact us on 01494 794477.