Bronze Age

The range of available window films continues to expand to meet the demands of an ever increasing and demanding market. Clients are becoming more informed and educated about the possibilities of window film and are using it as a solution more frequently. One of the more often used variants is an external grade film.

External window films are manufactured specifically for application to the outside surface of glazing. The manufacturing process makes them tougher and more durable, ensuring they are able to deliver the high levels of performance expected whilst also dealing with being exposed to the elements. External grade films are usually chosen when access to the inside of the glass is difficult to achieve and this was the case at a large Buckinghamshire based Council office building.

The Window Film Company were contacted to provide advice on the removal and replacing of window film across over 330 square metres of glass. The existing solar control film had reached the end of its natural life and to ensure the continued comfort of staff and visitors inside the building, a replacement is required.

Reflective films are among the most popular solar control products available. The reflective element of the film serves to bounce away a percentage of the suns solar energy before it enters the building. The properties of the film also provide added benefits including glare reduction and protection against fading. Whilst heat is vastly reduced, light is still allowed to pass through the glass, ensuring that those inside are still able to enjoy natural light.

The film in this instance was applied to over 300 panes of roof glass that due to the height and position were inaccessible from the inside of the building. A full site survey was undertaken to assess the building and to get a full understanding of the access equipment that was to be required. This also allowed for the creation of an accurate quote and project length proposal.

Part of the process also included the fitting of a sample section of film, with two possible films being considered. The existing film was a bronze reflective film and a direct replacement was considered alongside a high reflective silver option. The main difference between the two films is their appearance – both providing excellent and long-lasting protection against heat.

After the samples were fitted a decision on film type was made. At this stage work began on the logistical side of the project. The Window Film Company’s operations team organised the appropriate access equipment, whilst also liaising with Council officials to agree on the most appropriate time to carry out the installation.

With the dates approved, The Window Film Company’s teams of installers carried out the work over a period of x days. Every member of each team is fully qualified and vastly experienced in working under every conceivable condition  - including working at height. This experience allowed the fitting teams to carry out the work quickly and effectively, removing the existing film before replacing it with the new product.

The removal element of the job was just as important as the actual installation, as for optimum results glazing needs to be clear of any residue or dirt. Any blemishes present during installation can result in an imperfect job, so care was taken to ensure each of the 336 panes of glass were free of old film before commencing the new installation.

Once complete, the film gave the building an immediately improved look – the new film delivering a sleek, impressive and professional appearance whilst also providing superb solar protection.

This was a sizeable project with numerous elements that required experience, knowledge and attention to detail – each of which are hallmarks of The Window Film Company’s work. The work was completed to a high standard and within the timescales agreed, meaning the minimum of fuss for those working at the offices, coupled with an immediately improved working environment.

For more information on how The Window Film Company can help with your glass related issues, no matter how big or small the project or location, contact one of the team today on 01494 794477.