SOLAR PROTECTION AND SAFETY

Mar 20 2015

One of the most helpful aspects of window film is that it is possible to carry out a dual application of film – applying two layers to deliver a wider range of benefits. This was the method employed by those responsible for a large village hall in East Sussex.

With the three outward facing walls of the hall being almost completely comprised of glass, the venue enjoys magnificent views across the local countryside whilst also delivering a contemporary and stylish appearance. Whilst the benefits of the large floor to ceiling windows were obvious to everyone that visited, there were also some slight issues. As well as providing fantastic views and allowing for high levels of natural light, the large expanses of glass also meant that the hall got warm very quickly and a solution was sought.

Understandably, a main consideration of the work was to maintain the aesthetic qualities of the facilities, so a film was required that would provide an element of protection with the minimum in change to the appearance of the glass. With this in mind low reflective silver was chosen as the most sensible product. Giving glass a very light tint with a slight reflective element, low reflective silver can reduce up to 55% of solar energy, whilst also cutting glare by up to 48% and blocking 99% of the sun’s potentially harmful UV rays.

In addition to a solar control solution, the hall operators also wanted to bring the glass up to the necessary safety standards. Glass of a certain size needs to meet safety legislation and an application of specialist safety film can, when installed by a professional fitting team, can bring standard float glass up to the required standard.

Safety window film works by holding the glass together in the event of breakage, preventing the glass from falling in on itself and causing potential damage or injury. Safety window film is available in a range of thicknesses and appearances, with the optically clear version of the film the most popular choice, ensuring that the appropriate level of safety is achieved without sacrificing the appearance of the glass, natural light, or the view.

The two layers of film were applied to over 60 square metres of glass, with a total of 26 large panes requiring the film. The work was carried out by one of The Window Film Company’s teams of fully trained and qualified installation teams, with each panel cut to size on site before being expertly installed.

The result was a slight but stylish change in the appearance of the windows, with instant increased protection against solar gain and glazing that met the appropriate safety standards.

For more information about the range of solar control and safety products supplied and installed by The Window Film Company, please contact a member of the team on 01494 794477 or by emailing info@windowfilm.co.uk