Introduction
A newly constructed office building in Reading has overcome year round glare with specialist window film from The Window Film Company.
The modern office features a striking glass façade that gives the building a stylish appearance and fills the reception area with natural light. However, the extensive glazing also created a significant problem for people working inside the building.
Changing sunlight throughout the year meant that glare could make it difficult to focus comfortably. A high performance glare reduction window film was therefore required to improve the internal environment without compromising the appearance of the building.
Requirement
The project required a window film solution that could provide effective glare reduction while meeting the practical and aesthetic needs of the building.
The key requirements were:
- High glare reduction: The film needed to significantly reduce harsh sunlight and improve comfort for people inside the building.
- External application: The design of the building meant the film could not be applied to the internal face of the glass.
- Modern appearance: The film needed to complement the contemporary look of the glass façade.
- Heat reduction: Reducing excess solar heat entering through the large areas of glazing was an important additional benefit.
- UV protection: The chosen film also needed to help protect the interior from potentially harmful ultraviolet rays and reduce fading.
Solution
Following a review of the available options, CH8 External was selected as the most suitable window film for the project.
CH8 External can reduce glare by up to 91%, helping to create a more comfortable environment while maintaining visibility through the glass. The film filters the harshest sunlight in a similar way to sunglasses, reducing uncomfortable glare without blocking the view.
Its external application made it suitable for the building's glazing arrangement, where internal installation was not possible.
The film also provided the sleek appearance required for the modern office. Its charcoal finish complements the contemporary glass façade, giving the building a professional and cohesive appearance.
In addition to glare reduction, CH8 External provides heat reduction benefits by helping to limit the amount of excess solar heat entering through the glass. The film can also reject up to 99% of UV rays, helping to reduce one of the main causes of fading to interior furnishings and materials.
Installation
The Window Film Company's specialist installation team applied the film to 16 large glass panels, covering more than 116 square metres of glazing.
Due to the height of the building, powered access equipment was required to complete the installation safely and efficiently. A cherry picker was used to provide access to the external glass.
The installation was completed with careful attention to the large panels and the building's contemporary appearance. Once applied, the film immediately began reducing glare, creating a more comfortable environment for people inside the office.
The finished installation also gave the external glazing a sleek, charcoal appearance that complements the building's modern design.
Summary
This Reading office project demonstrates how specialist glare reduction window film can improve comfort without compromising architectural style.
By installing CH8 External across more than 116 square metres of glass, the building has benefited from significant glare reduction, alongside heat reduction and UV protection. The external film application also provided a practical solution for glazing where internal installation was not possible.
The result is a more comfortable internal environment and a professional, modern finish that complements the building's striking glass façade.
For advice on glare reduction window film, heat reduction window film or the most suitable solution for your building, contact The Window Film Company on 01494 794477 or email sales@windowfilm.co.uk.
