Blog | Window Film Depot

Comparing ROI on New Windows Vs. Window Film

Maximize the Return on Investment Your Windows With Window Film

Within the modern real estate market, maximizing the value of your property is paramount. Choosing which part of your property to improve can make a difference of hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. One such investment on the minds of property-owners is through updating glass windows; should those be a priority to maintain the highest return on investment?

The answer is a resounding yes. Keep reading to discover why updating old glass can reap massive benefits, how window film compares to new windows, and the specific benefits offered by window film.

Why Update Old Glass Windows?
Which Has a Greater ROI: Window Film vs New Windows
- Return on Investment of New Windows
- Return on Investment of Window Film
How Can I Improve the ROI on My Windows With Window Film?

Why Update Old Glass Windows?

Typically, window glass is not meant to last forever. Over time, wear and tear diminishes the effectiveness of your glass windows and doors — leading to significant downsides to property owners. Signs that old windows need a refresh include:

Visible cracks and imperfections
Notable interior drafts
Skyrocketing energy bills
Interior or exterior condensation
Increased rate of fading furniture
Reduced sound resistance

If you’re experiencing one or more of these signs on your property, it’s time for either new windows or window film.

Which Has a Greater ROI: Window Film vs New Windows

Choosing between the installation of new windows versus window film can be a difficult decision for property-owners. Ultimately, however, there’s a clear answer to the better option: window film has a much greater return on investment than replacement windows. Let’s explain the ROI of both, and why window film comes out superior.

Return on Investment of New Windows

High-quality, new windows inherently fix several issues that come with worn-out glass — alleviating drafts, improving faded sound resistance, and coming installed without any prior cracks or bumps.

High initial installation costs, however, limit the immediate return on investment of replacement windows. Angie’s List estimates that window glass replacement typically costs an average of $283 per window, or between $180 and $412. On properties with a large quantity of glass windows, these costs can quickly pile up.

These costs also fail to include the time investment needed for new window installation. To install new windows, window professionals need to first remove the original windows, then install the new windows — making businesses either inconvenient or unusable for employees and customers alike throughout the installation process.

Return on Investment of Window Film

Window film carries all of the benefits of total window replacement, but with streamlined installation at a fraction of the cost. Window film is charged per square footage; brands such as 3M range from $5-$8 per square foot for residential projects, with significant discounts for bulk orders on commercial projects. This low price is why, according to the US Department of Energy, window films typically pay back in as short as 3 years.

Unlike new windows, window film delivers this return on investment without replacing existing glass. In turn, window film also substantially reduces the price and length of installation compared to replacement windows. It’s exceedingly rare for window film installation to take longer than a day — not to mention your property will remain usable throughout installation.

How Can I Improve the ROI on My Windows With Window Film?

So what specific benefits of window film can lead to a positive return on investment in your property? The benefits of window film are varied and numerous — here are just a few to consider.

Increase Energy Efficiency

The US Department of Energy estimates that windows influence end uses making up about 43% of building energy consumption. However, by improving window performance, annual energy use in the United States could reduce by 1.7% — including energy savings for your property.

Window films are a key way to access these window energy savings. Offering year round energy savings across all seasons, window film comes in varieties such as heat control, low-E, and more. In turn, window film installation leads to lasting energy savings that contribute immediately to their return on investment.

Improve Glass Security

Crime can cause devastating damage and expenses for property-owners. From smash & grab crime to active shooters, violent attacks may spring losses of property, inventory, and even life.

Security window film mitigates the risk of diverse attacks, returning initial investments in the long-term and short-term. Rather than shattering, security window film absorbs the impact of blunt force. This absorption can stop robberies, stifle intruders, and mitigate shattered glass — leading to a substantial return on investment if disaster strikes.

Gain Better Aesthetic Value

For residential and commercial properties alike, presentation is everything. Decorative window film can increase the aesthetic value of your property, drawing in more business and upping the resale value for future investments. From building wraps and window graphics to structured architectural window film, the capability of window film to boost the aesthetic value of your property are nearly limitless.

Leverage the ROI of Window Film With Window Film Depot

With a low cost to install and diverse ways to return your investment, property-owners looking for upgrades with a high ROI should look no further than window film. Family owned and operated since 1992, Window Film Depot is your top choice to make this investment. Our experienced team retrofits high-performance films across diverse projects to ensure a palpable return on investment for your property. Contact us today and discover which of our solutions best fits your vision.

Window Film Magazine One-On-One with Krissy Mosby, President of Window Film Depot

Window Film Industry Magazine One-on-One Interview with Krissy Mosby, President of Window Film Depot

How important is window film to the cannabis industry? Important enough that a major window film dealer and installer exhibited at the recent New Jersey Cannabis Convention in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

On August 28, Georgia-based Window Film Depot, which has offices all over the country, including New Jersey, posted on Facebook that it would be exhibiting at the cannabis convention on September 6-7. With prime booth space and a heavy social media marketing campaign promoting the event, Window Film magazine reached out to the business to find out more about their involvement with the cannabis industry.

In this Q&A, Krissy Mosby, president of Window Film Depot, discusses everything from the company’s presence at the conference to the potential stigma that comes with being associated with cannabis.

Window Film Mag (WFM): Can you tell us why Window Film Depot is exhibiting at a cannabis convention?

Krissy Mosby: Window film is often narrowly perceived as just a means of tinting glass to enhance energy efficiency. While optimizing the performance of architectural glass and achieving energy savings remains a key aspect of our work, modern window- and surface-film technology also enables us to support the commercial building sector in addressing broader challenges, including enhancing safety and security. And, when it comes to security our service extends to what is required to support school and courthouse hardening to also include retail businesses and other customer-interfacing businesses.

In recent years, organized retail crime (ORC) has become a significant challenge for retail businesses. With the legalization of hemp and Cannabidiol (CBD) products for medical use in 38 states, CBD dispensaries are facing similar threats. We chose to exhibit at the Cannabis Convention in New Jersey for the first time to address these concerns and help educate business owners on how window film solutions can combat smash-and-grab crime and safeguard interior glass displays.

WFM: Who is the customer for tinted windows in the cannabis industry? And where is the film being used in their facilities?

KM: Security window film and retrofit security glazing systems can be implemented to protect the glass doors and windows in the storefront, glass showcases and displays on the interior, and transaction windows. This is not about ‘tinting’ the glass—it’s about delayed entry protection to eliminate inventory loss and to protect employees.

WFM: Has Window Film Depot been involved in other similar events? If so, what were they like?

KM: We actively participate in over 40 trade shows and conferences each year and across various industries. We strive to educate and inform stakeholders—ranging from business owners and facility managers to school administrators and other security professionals—about the advanced window film and surface solutions available to meet today’s challenges. Challenges AND opportunities that go beyond energy efficiency—with safety and security being a huge focus.

WFM: Despite recreational cannabis being legal in almost half the country, the potential for stigma endures. How do you feel about working with an industry that might have a reputation issue?

KM: This is an important question. Our primary focus is on meeting the needs of our customers rather than passing judgment on any particular industry. Our role is to provide solutions that enhance safety, security and efficiency for all clients, as long as their operations are legal and compliant with regulatory standards. We believe in supporting businesses across various industries, regardless of any perceived reputational challenges.

WFM: Do you think there will be an increase in window tinting needs as the cannabis industry grows?

KM: As ORC continues to escalate and as more states legalize the sale of medical CBD products, the demand for security window film and other retrofit security glazing solutions will increase accordingly.

View article by Vinnie Driscollin in Window Film Magazine

Are There UV Rays Indoors? Blocking & Minimizing UV Rays Inside

Window Film Can Safeguard Both People & Furnishings From Indoor UV Rays

Ultraviolet (UV) rays should be a major concern for anyone looking to maintain positive skin health. According to the CDC, overexposure to UV radiation may lead to sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer — not to mention additional complications connected to each of these ailments. In turn, protection from ultraviolet rays should be a priority for everyone.

The threat of ultraviolet exposure isn’t just outdoors. UV can penetrate inside too, potentially leading to health complications even within your home or business. How does ultraviolet get indoors, and what can property owners do to stop it?

At Window Film Depot, we’re here to answer your questions and provide the solutions you need. Read on to discover how UV gets inside, alongside four types of window film that can minimize the damaging impact of ultraviolet within your interior.

Can You Get UV Rays Indoors?
- Do Indoor Lights Have UV Rays?
- Do Glass Windows Let In UV Rays?
How to Minimize UV Rays Indoors Using Window Film

Can You Get UV Rays Indoors?

Yes, you can get UV rays inside your house or business — and they can be quite harmful. As with exposure to UV rays under any circumstance, significant exposure to indoor UV rays can lead to major negative health implications for humans, including skin cancer, premature aging, and sunburns. Beyond people, indoor UV rays can also cause damage to furniture — leading to faded colors, discolored textiles, and eventually breakage. How, then, does UV rays get inside?

Do Indoor Lights Have UV Rays?

Indoor lights may or may not emit small amounts of UV rays; whether they do or don’t, the level of radiation pales in comparison to the UV rays emitted from the sun. Scientists disagree over the exact levels of UV exposed via different types of lights — with various different levels associated with incandescent bulbs and fluorescent bulbs. This disagreement also extends to the long-term dangers of UV exposure.

One published study from 2010 theorizes that chronic exposure to top light bulbs could ultimately result in a significant accumulation of damage; another study from 2015 theorizes lamps and electronic devices do not emit UV at all, thus posing no health risk for the population. Research on this subject is both sparse and conflicting, but ultimately scientists do agree on one thing: one-time exposure to UV rays from indoor lights pose no immediate risk to humans, such as sunburn or eye damage.

Do Glass Windows Let In UV Rays?

Standard glass windows let in a high level of UV radiation — making them the far more dangerous source of UV rays indoors. According to the International Ultraviolet Association, normal glass is transparent to UV radiation to a wavelength of about 330 nm. This means that UVA rays — the main cause of premature skin aging and a major contributor to the development of skin cancer — can penetrate glass. In turn, windows are letting in a significant amount of indoor UV rays; enough to be dangerous.

How to Minimize UV Rays Indoors Using Window Film

While employees, customers, and residents of buildings with ample natural light should take personal caution to minimize UV exposure, property-owners can take significant measures to reduce UV rays within their buildings. One key means to do so is window film — which can further reduce the UV transparency of traditional glass and block up to 99% of harmful UV rays without sacrificing natural light.

Window Film Depot offers a wide variety of window films that can help minimize indoor UV exposure. Here are four key solutions — amongst many — that we can help install.

3M™ Safety & Security Window Film Solar Safety Series for Commercial

Built for protection from both sunlight and intruders, 3M™ Safety & Security Window Film Solar Safety Series for Commercial combines the benefits of 3M Safety Series with 3M Sun Control film for a holistic package. Altogether, this film offers the UV protection you’re looking for alongside extensive ballistic resistance — ideal for property-owners worried about safety threats such as smash-and-grab crime.

3M™ Sun Control Window Film Neutral Series for Commercial

3M™ Sun Control Window Film Neutral Series Commercial provides substantial rejection of harmful UV rays and significantly reduces interior glare — leading to reduced eye discomfort for people inside of your property. The Neutral Series offers all of this protection through a variety of soft, tinted hues, giving a relaxed, laid-back aesthetic to your windows and interior.

3M™ Sun Control Window Films, Ceramic Series for Commercial

Leveraging advanced ceramics that allow them to maintain their color and appearance over time, 3M™ Sun Control Window Films, Ceramic Series for Commercial offer extensive protection from the sun. Not only does the Ceramic Series block 99% of UV rays, but the film also rejects up to 80% of infrared light and up to 59% of heat. Non-metallized, this film comes in a natural tone that still provides incredible clarity.

3M™ Sun Control Window Films, Night Vision™ Series for Commercial

Looking for enhanced views with lower interior reflectivity? 3M™ Sun Control Window Films, Night Vision™ Series for Commercial allow 15% to 35% of natural light into rooms by day, while still offering beautiful views at night. Of course, this film also provides impressive UV rejection, while additionally rejecting up to 71% of the sun’s heat. This film’s greater reflectivity also provides enhanced interior privacy.

Protect Your Interior from UV Rays and Other Threats With Window Film Depot

Window Film Depot provides window film solutions for comprehensive glass concerns — from active shooter mitigation through UV protection. Family owned and operated since 1992, our expert team listens directly to client needs before determining the perfect type of window film to serve their unique needs. Contact us today so we can discover how we can help you.

Window Film Depot Highlights Facts About Window Film in Celebration of National Window Film Day

MARIETTA, GA. – APRIL 22, 2024 – Window Film Depot, a national leader in the installation of window film and surface solutions, is celebrating National Window Film Day, April 30^th, as a day of public education focusing on how Window Film Makes Things Better!^© as a cost-effective solution to reducing energy costs in homes and business environments, protecting skin and interior finishes from the sun’s damaging UV rays and providing improved window safety.

According to the US Department of Energy, cooling and heating account for more than half of the energy use in a typical U.S. home, representing one of the largest energy expenses for most households. Air conditioners alone consume about six percent of all electricity produced in the U.S., costing homeowners an annual total of approximately $29 billion. Consequently, around 117 million metric tons of carbon dioxide are emitted into the air each year. These statistics are just as alarming for commercial buildings.

In 2023, U.S. governors acknowledged window film’s significant contribution to energy efficiency in buildings through official proclamations. Recognized for its capacity to lower energy consumption, thereby reducing carbon emissions, window film also brings additional benefits to consumers. This year marks the 10th anniversary of National Window Film Day. “While we operate nationwide, we are particularly grateful for Georgia Governor Brian Kemp’s support in designating April 30th as National Window Film Day in our home state,” expressed Krissy Mosby, President of Window Film Depot.

Once installed, window film may offer year-round savings of about 5 to 10 percent of the home’s total energy bill, according to the nonprofit International Window Film Association (IWFA).

Window film can be professionally applied to existing windows, upgrading them to meet current energy and safety standards. Once installed, it offers immediate benefits, including reduced energy costs, more comfortable indoor temperatures, 99 percent less exposure to harmful UV rays, and enhanced protection against dangerous glass shards from broken windows.

In addition, Window films can be installed in a day or less and are priced at a fraction of the cost of replacement windows. Window films are also eligible for tax credits under the new Inflation Reduction Act.

ABOUT WINDOW FILM DEPOT

Headquartered in Marietta, GA, Window Film Depot (WFD), a subsidiary of FutureVu Brands, is a leading provider of window film and surface solutions. With over 30 years of experience and more than 50,000 completed projects, WFD has earned recognition for excellence from industry leaders such as 3M and Window Film Magazine. As a GSA and TIPS Contract Holder and proud member of the USGBC, WFD is committed to delivering high-quality products and professional services tailored to meet the unique needs of each project. Discover how WFD can enhance glass for superior performance, aesthetics, safety, and security at www.windowfilmdepot.com.

Protect Birds From Windows With Window Film

Learn How to Protect Birds From Windows With Window Film

Birds frequently fly into glass windows. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, nearly 1 billion birds collide with glass windows each year, causing untold amounts of damage to home and business properties across the United States.

How, then, can properties protect birds from windows? Read this blog to learn why protecting birds from windows is essential and how Window Film Depot provides several cost-effective ways to implement bird protection for windows.

Why It’s Essential to Protect Windows From Birds
Solutions From Window Film Depot That Minimize the Impact of Birds

Why It’s Essential to Protect Windows From Birds

Why do birds commonly fly into windows? Windows not only let light into your property but also have a reflective and transparent surface. Birds often assume that there’s no window on your property and that they can fly straight into your home without safety issues. Windows are also often shiny and reflective, providing birds with a mirror image of themselves that they may mistake for another bird.

Whatever the cause, this attraction to windows can spell major issues for property-owners. Here are just a few of the threats birds pose to properties.

Structural Damage

As stated, just about 1 billion birds make contact with glass windows annually in the United States. This high number of crashes translates into hundreds of millions of dollars of property damage yearly. Bird impacts often crack or break windows and may threaten the structural integrity of window and door frames; the more damage a property incurs, the more expensive repairs will be.

Bird strikes on windows also cause secondary forms of damage. Cracked or broken windows allow for moisture buildup inside buildings, causing mold and bacteria growth, which may harm furniture, appliances, and other precious items. Pests can also make their way into a property through even the tiniest cracks, so it’s crucial to prevent birds from impacting windows in the first place and to repair any existing damaged windows as quickly as possible.

Negative Aesthetics

Few details accent a beautiful home or office building like high-quality, intact windows. Damage caused by bird impacts will detract from even the finest property’s value and overall aesthetic appeal. Cracked and broken windows are often immediately visible to even casual passersby, let alone friends, family, and coworkers.

Bird collisions may also leave unsightly marks and smudges on and near windows. Particularly nasty impacts often leave blood and other nasty substances near impact sites, while uric acid from deceased birds, in particular, can cause etching and staining on window and door frames. Thankfully, if you prioritize bird protection for windows in the first place, it’s more than likely that you will never encounter any of these aesthetic issues in the first place.

Disturbed Residents and Customers

Bird collisions aren’t just unsightly— they are loud. Bird impacts are so loud, in fact, that they can startle and disturb neighbors in a given residential area. Business owners may notice their customers becoming distressed or anxious upon hearing (or seeing) a bird impact in real time. Continuous bird activity over an extended period of time may cause more intractable issues with residential associations or landlords.

Even the sight of feathers and bird droppings nearby buildings has the potential to scare away potential customers or disturb residents of local properties. People may fear contracting bird-borne illnesses, or worry that their property is next to experience damage from birds colliding with windows. To keep your neighbors and customers feeling safe, and to give yourself some peace of mind as well, it’s best to consider installing bird protection window film or another form of bird protection for windows.

Solutions From Window Film Depot That Minimize the Impact of Birds

There are no one-size-fits-all options with regards to bird protection for windows. Some may prefer bird protection window film, while others may want decals for windows to protect birds. No matter your preference, Window Film Depot stocks a wide variety of products for your consideration.

3M™ Safety & Security Window Film

3M™ Safety & Security Window Film series’ options excel at providing well-rounded protection. In addition to reducing UV ray damage and providing intense durability, these window films provide solid coverage against even the most intense bird impacts. Clear and single-layer by design, they don’t compromise aesthetic sleekness for quality, instead blending the two together seamlessly.

Window Film Depot stocks numerous 3M™ Safety & Security Window Film options: the exterior safety series, the solar safety series for both residential and commercial applications, and the safety series, yet again for both residential and commercial use. We’re confident that one of these options will serve as an ideal bird protection window film for your specific use case.

3M™ Scotchshield™ Safety & Security Window Films

Interested in a customizable, next-level option for protecting birds from windows? Look no further than the 3M™ Scotchshield Safety & Security Window Films.

Scotchshield™ features 3M’s finest protective material to date, as it’s ultra-thin yet stronger than ever. You’ll enjoy many benefits beyond bird protection for your windows. Best of all, 3M’s renowned warranties and customer service assistance will be there to provide support every step of the way.

3M™ Impact Protection Attachment Systems

3M™ Impact Protection Attachment Systems provide an additional element of protection and peace of mind for property owners keen on world-class bird protection for windows. This product features premium-grade window film but with a twist. It attaches the film-covered window to its frame, ensuring even greater stability in the event of a collision.

With many other use cases—theft prevention, natural disasters, and bomb blasts—in mind, we bet that the 3M™ Impact Protection Attachment Systems will protect your windows from potential bird impacts with ease.

Feather Friendly Bird Strike Window Decals

Our Feather Friendly Bird Strike Window Decals are ideal for property owners keen on a cost-effective, dependable bird impact solution for both residential and commercial settings. These decals form a pattern of distraction markers on an existing piece of glass’s exterior. This pattern effectively confuses birds of varying species and ages, reflecting nearby sky and foliage so they avoid flying into window glass.

All Feather Friendly products boast 3M quality and longevity, as they feature a 6-year product warranty. Best of all, these decals don’t interfere with glass clarity or appearance, ensuring optimal window performance and aesthetics. Everyone—property owners, other people, and birds—wins with Feather Friendly products.

Rely on the Experts at Window Film Depot for Bird-Proof Windows

Knowing how to protect birds from windows helps property-owners avoid expensive repair fees and serious damage to their homes and businesses. However, while temporary quick-fixes may help here and there, only the experts can provide high-quality bird protection for windows.

Our team here at Window Film Depot draws upon years of expertise and thorough training to provide intuitive, results-driven solutions for bird proofing windows. We provide premium-grade bird protection window film and decals at unbeatable prices, ensuring that you get the protection you need before disaster strikes. Contact us today to learn more about us and what we do.

Window Film Depot Collaborates on the Deployment of New 3M ScotchShield™ Security Window Film S2400

MARIETTA, GA – March 20, 2024 – Window Film Depot (WFD), a prominent national window film installer and 3M Dealer, proudly announces its involvement in the launch of the new 3M ScotchShield™ Security Window Film S2400. Developed to address the pressing need for heightened security measures, this innovative 3M film solution is poised to revolutionize window security across various sectors.

The 3M ScotchShield Security Window Film S2400 is engineered to bolster windows against potential threats by employing groundbreaking new film technology using patented urethane construction and a proprietary 3M adhesive. The 24 mil construction forms a resilient barrier that helps hold glass fragments together upon impact, thereby reducing risks associated with forced entry or smash-and-grab incidents. The film represents an evolution in thin film technologies designed for glass safety and security and far outperforms the existing polyester-based PET products that have permeated the industry since the 1970’s.

Moreover, beyond its primary function as a security enhancement, the 3M ScotchShield Security Window Film S2400 is undergoing evaluation to determine its practical benefits and optimal methods of application in industrial, commercial, educational, and other occupational settings. Potential applications include safety glazing, blast mitigation, break-in prevention, and mitigating spontaneous glass breakage incidents.

“Our dedication lies in equipping our customers with effective security solutions that seamlessly integrate into their surroundings,” stated Krissy Mosby, President of Window Film Depot. “3M ScotchShield Security Window Film S2400 embodies a comprehensive approach to window security, addressing intrusion concerns alongside considerations such as shatter resistance and UV protection.”

Recognizing the diverse needs of its clientele, Window Film Depot underscores the versatility of the 3M ScotchShield Security Window Film S2400, which is suitable for a wide array of environments, including homes, businesses, schools, and government facilities. Certified installers from Window Film Depot ensure optimal performance and longevity by tailoring solutions to meet the unique requirements of each space, prioritizing both functionality and aesthetics.

As part of its commitment to its 3M Preferred Partner status and customer-centric service, Window Film Depot eagerly anticipates the successful launch of this new solution. The company invites facility managers and security professionals to explore the benefits of the 3M ScotchShield Security Window Film S2400 and take proactive steps toward creating safer and more secure environments.

About Window Film Depot

Best Practices for Building a Synagogue Security Plan With Window Film

The Growing Importance of Synagogue Safety Security Training

Security training is becoming an essential aspect of any organization — from synagogues to schools and retail stores. ABC News reports that there have been more mass shootings than days in 2021, 2022, and 2023; current violent crime trends don’t indicate those numbers will change any time soon.

While high rates of violent crime across the country, places of worship are at particularly high risk. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, 17.3% of hate crimes in the U.S. were motivated by religion in 2022, making religion the second-highest motivating factor. In turn, synagogues and other places of worship need to leverage proper training and planning to know how to respond to threats.

Best Practices for Synagogue Security Plans

With such a high risk of potential violence, synagogues need to ensure they have a security plan to mitigate potential emergencies. Here are few essential best practices for synagogues to implement when designing security plans.

Build a Synagogue Security Checklist

The first step to jump-starting synagogue security is pinpointing exactly what your synagogue needs to protect itself. Building a synagogue security checklist ensures that members of the synagogue understand exactly what they need to do to protect their building, both in preparation for synagogue vandalism and during breaches in security.

Synagogue security checklists can include procedures for setting up security systems, or be used to walk through emergent situations. Synagogues may also opt to create specific checklists for different threats, such as active shooters or riots. Additionally, checklists can be used to ensure potential volunteers undergo required synagogue security training.

Assign Synagogue Security Team Roles & Responsibilities

On the subject of volunteers — successfully implementing a synagogue security checklist requires a dedicated synagogue security team. Efficiently doling out roles and responsibilities to members of the synagogue is integral to better security.

When assigning roles, synagogue leadership should consider who can best handle any given task, including specialized volunteers such as law enforcement officers or medical professionals. Potential roles include team leaders, communication specialists, technology specialists, training coordinators, and security coordinators.

Review & Test Synagogue Alarm Systems

One of the best ways to stifle synagogue intruders & swiftly alert appropriate law enforcement of potential assailants is through the installation of a synagogue alarm system. With direct contact to authorities, alarm systems are a key component of any successful synagogue security plan.

Depending on the size, construction, and layout of a synagogue, alarm systems may encompass a variety of supplemental technologies to determine an intrusion. In turn, synagogue alarm systems may include door sensors, glassbreak detectors, & motion sensors, alongside hazard-specific sensors such as flood detection devices

Regardless of the technology, synagogue alarm systems offer an ideal way to immediately alert authorities in case of a dangerous approach. By connecting devices directly to the police, synagogues can gain instant responses to potential assailants — mitigating damage, theft, and even violence.

Install & Monitor Security Cameras

Working in tandem with alarm systems, synagogue security cameras help surveil suspicious parties & potential assailants both in and around synagogues.

Synagogues should place cameras in strategic locations, including entryways, windows, spaces with heavy foot-traffic, and rooms kept away from the public. Modern surveillance cameras can connect to the internet for 24/7, accessible security monitoring. Cameras can even integrate with synagogue alarm systems for a holistic, responsive security system – helping determine exactly who attempted a breach of synagogue security, alongside where and how they did it.

Implement a Physical Synagogue Security System

While security cameras and synagogue alarm systems can help authorities track down, neither do much to actively stop intruders from entering a synagogue. To slow an assailant, synagogues need to install physical synagogue security.

Safety window film, such as 3M™ Safety & Security Window Films is the ideal first step towards improving physical security in synagogues. Useful in diverse situations, security window film can add essential resistance against blasts, active shooters, and forceful impact from blunt objects. 3M™ Safety Film can also combine with other film for enhanced safety and additional benefits, including temperature control with sun control film.

Synagogues may also consider security glass systems such as DefenseLite. A heavy-grade, architectural grade security shield, DefenseLite uses an extruded frame and nearly impenetrable polycarbonate to prove another reliable option for synagogue physical security.

Complete Your Synagogue Security Plan With Security Window Film

Leveraging these best practices, synagogues can gain peace of mind that they are prepared in case of conflict. Creating checklists and assigning roles ensure members of the synagogue know how to react to specific conflicts, implementing security & surveillance systems can increase law enforcement response times, and installing window film can greatly slow violent approaches. When purchasing window film, synagogues should look to hire a trusted installation team to ensure the highest level of physical protection.

Window Film Depot is the #1 security window film dealer in the US. We have successfully installed our reliable glass security solutions on the windows & doors of diverse religious institutions across the United States — from synagogue to churches, mosques, and more. Contact us today to greatly improve physical security in your synagogue.

How Does Bulletproof Glass Work

The need for bulletproof glass in the United States is at an all-time high. In 2022, the FBI categorized 50 shootings as active shooter incidents — with additional types of gun-based crime, such as armed robberies, also plaguing the country. With such a need for the technology, many property-owners have begun to wonder: how does bulletproof glass actually work? Is it even really “bulletproof?”

We’ve got all of your questions answered. Dive into this comprehensive guide for a brief history of bulletproof glass, an explanation on how it works, and other important explanations when purchasing a solution.

A Brief History of Bulletproof Glass
- Bulletproof or Bullet Resistant?
How Does Bulletproof Glass Work?
What is Bullet Proof (Bullet Resistant) Glass Made Out Of?
- Solid Acrylic vs. Laminated Polycarbonate
- Ballistic Glass vs. Security Window Film
Common FAQs About Bulletproof Glass
- How Thick Does Bulletproof Glass Need to Be?
- How Does Angle of Impact Affect Bulletproof Glass?

A Brief History of Bulletproof Glass

Like many great inventions, bulletproof glass was discovered by accident. In 1903, French painter, writer, and chemist Edouard Benedictus dropped a glass flask. Although the flask shattered upon impact, the glass shards remained together rather than spreading across the floor.

Upon examination, he discovered the flask was held together by a film, spurred by an alcohol solution of collodion. After a night of attempts to replicate the film, Benedictius created the first ever sheet of “safety glass” — sandwiching a film of cellulose nitrate between two sheets of untreated glass.

Through the years, Benedictus’s initial discovery has gone through continuous innovation and improvement, becoming widely accepted in diverse fields. From incorporation into warfare during both World Wars to its implementation on the PopeMobile, bulletproof glass is used across the world to protect those at risk from threats of active shooters.

Bulletproof or Bullet Resistant?

Don’t let the name fool you; no “bulletproof” glass solution is truly bulletproof. All bulletproof glass solutions are actually bullet resistant — designed to minimize the impact of bullets but not necessarily impenetrable. Bullets are incredibly high-impact, and can often be fired in rapid succession. In turn, even the strongest “bulletproof” solutions may break after enough rounds from a powerful enough firearm.

How Does Bulletproof Glass Work?

Bulletproof glass slows the impact of bullets by dispersing the kinetic energy of projectiles upon impact. When any surface is struck with a fast moving object, one of two things happens: the object shatters under the stress of force, or absorbs the impact as it spreads across the material. Glass, for example, has no means to absorb impact, thus shattering.

Bullet resistant glass solutions leverage several layers of protection to slow, then eventually stop, bullets upon impact. Take, for example, bulletproof glass made from laminated polycarbonate. With several layers of protection, bullets often get through multiple layers of protection, slowing to a point of stoppage before it fully penetrates the glass. Thanks to lamination, even penetrated layers stay together rather than falling into debris — both stopping bullets and protecting patrons from shatter.

What is Bullet Proof (Bullet Resistant) Glass Made Out Of?

There is no one thing that bullet resistant glass is made of; most types of “bulletproof glass” are composed of several materials, with multiple different variations of materials within the market as well. Some common & widely used types of bullet resistant glass include solid acrylic and laminated polycarbonate.

Solid Acrylic vs. Laminated Polycarbonate

Two of the most typical materials for bullet resistant glass are solid acrylic and laminated polycarbonate. Both are polymers — materials made from long lines of molecules chained together.

Polycarbonates refer to a group of thermoplastic polymers containing carbonate groups in their chemical structures. Installed as panels over existing glass or occasionally from scratch, polycarbonate solutions offer flexible installation for properties — alongside strength varying from UL 752 Level 1 through 8 per unique safety concerns. Polycarbonate powers several industry-leading bullet resistant glass solutions, including DefenseLite and BulletShield.

Acrylic, also known under brand names such as Plexiglas®, Perspex®, and Lucite®. Ranging in thickness from 1 ¼” to 1 ⅜”, acrylic comes in flexible sizes and is malleable to diverse installation needs. It resembles glass (with a transparency rate of 93%) while weighing 50% less than glass of equal thickness. Acrylic is less expensive than polycarbonate, and in turn is also less durable; even at maximum thickness, acrylic only meets UL 752 Level 1 requirements.

Ballistic Glass vs. Security Window Film

Often confused, ballistic glass and security window film are two different types of glass solutions. Although both provide impact resistance, ballistic glass and traditional security window film are made from different materials, both useful in separate situations. While security window film is excellent against most security threats, properties with specific concerns about bullet protection should opt for ballistic, bullet resistant glass.

Typically made from micro-layered, tear-resistant polyester film, security window film is designed to prevent break-ins, shatter protection, and smash & grab crime. The film absorbs the blunt impact of assailants, rather than shattering and allowing for easy access to a store. Meant to absorb blunt force, window film is not designed for the level of ballistic impact from a firearm. While window film may absorb some impact from bullets, UL-rated ballistic glass solutions are a better option for active shooter protection.

Common FAQs About Bulletproof Glass

With different materials and thicknesses to choose from, buyers of bulletproof glass have several key decisions to make before purchasing a solution for their property. Here are a few questions to consider, and our advice for purchasing.

How Thick Does Bulletproof Glass Need to Be?

The necessary thickness of bulletproof glass changes based on the unique security concerns of a residence or business; a store in a bustling city, for example, requires a different type of protection than an apartment building in the suburbs. Most bullet resistant glass solutions, such as BulletShield, are available in multiple thicknesses, customized based on the unique needs of a given property.

Additionally, thickness needs to change based on the type of material being used; because they’re different materials, one thickness of acrylic will have different protection than the same thickness in laminated polycarbonate. We recommend consulting a bulletproof glass installation professional to determine the exact thickness required for your security concerns.

How Does Angle of Impact Affect Bulletproof Glass?

Angle of impact greatly affects the damage done by a bullet; the smaller the angle, the more material a bullet has to pass through before reaching the other side. For example, a bullet approaching a vertical window at 90° has far less material to penetrate than one approaching at a 30° angle.

In turn, angled windows may need less thick glass to deliver the same level of protection from active shooters. To determine how angle of impact will affect the bullet resistance of your glass, contact a security window installation expert.

Install Bulletproof Glass With the Expert Team at Window Film Depot

With knowledge of how bulletproof glass actually works, property-owners can do a better job assessing the bullet resistance needs of their business or residence. However, even knowing the science, it’s impossible to maximize the effectiveness of bullet resistant glass without the help of an expert.

Here at Window Film Depot, we leverage a knowledgeable team of experts for seamless, comprehensive bullet resistant glass installation. Our network encompasses caring, compassionate window film professionals that will listen to your needs and figure out the ideal solution to protect your property from diverse threats, including active shooters. For more information, contact us today.

The Ultimate Sun Control Solution Buyer Guide

Sun control window film offers immense benefits to properties of all shapes, sizes, and purposes. As the premier experts of window film installation across the United States, we’ve assembled this comprehensive guide on sun control solutions — read on to learn how film can increase the value of your property, alongside other frequently asked questions.

What is Sun Control Film?
When Is the Best Time to Install Window Film for Sun Control & Summer Energy Savings?
Can Sun Control Films Save Energy?
How Long Does Solar Film Last?
Does Clear UV Film Reduce Heat?
How Can You Remove Sun Control Film From Glass?
Can I Install a Tinted Film on My Skylights?
How to Fix Sun Control Film on Glass

What is Sun Control Film?

Sun control film is a type of window film used for the specific purpose of minimizing the heat and UV effects of the sun through glass windows. It has immense benefits for both commercial and residential properties, increasing cost efficiency and creating more comfortable interiors for both residents and guests.

Thanks to its construction, sun control window film serves as an energy saver by reducing the amount of solar heat transmission. It acts by absorbing solar through the glass and limits the effect of the harsh sunlight on the occupants of a building — keeping buildings cool and reducing the amount of air conditioning needed. 3M Sun Control films come in different forms, depending on the needs of the building, and can be enjoyed in clear film without changing the look of the building.

When Is the Best Time to Install Window Film for Sun Control & Summer Energy Savings?

There is no one best time to install window film — any installation will provide significant benefits, lasting through the year’s remaining seasons and beyond. 3M Window Films offer a graceful, yet pragmatic way for working out several intriguing prospects of finagling sun control and security issues for your home or business not only in the summer, but also during winter months as well.

As we approach fall, the sun begins to enter buildings through the southern direction. This shift will angle some rooms in your home or business to develop a larger amount of daily sun, potentially impacting residents, employees, and guests with sensitive skin. Sun control films can diminish these negative effects, offering a near seamless solution to increased exposure.

Can Sun Control Films Save Energy?

Sun Control Films provide substantial heat rejection, creating energy savings for office buildings, retail stores, commercial and residential properties. Our film allows for the natural light to come in and offer high visible light transmission while the infrared rejection (up to 97%) provides significant savings and enhanced comfort. Up to 60% of the heat is rejected adding up to lower utility bills and higher energy savings. The best film choice to save energy depends on your goal and building structure — we typically recommend the 3M Prestige Series.

The 3M Prestige Series will let in the light but not the heat, creating superior comfort and clarity. The clear heat control films are designed for minimal aesthetic change to windows while providing maximum solar control performance. This current Window Film Depot project with 3M Prestige Film blocks 50% of the solar energy without altering the look of the building.

How Long Does Solar Film Last?

Typically, solar window film lasts around 10 to 15 years, but has the potential to last over 20. Quality of material and window film care are the two biggest factors impacting the longevity of window film; high quality products such as 3M Window Film last longer than lower quality options, while regular cleaning using non-abrasive supplies will help film last well into its expected lifecycle.

Most window film comes with a warranty ensuring replacement or repair within a certain window. At Window Film Depot, our 3M Window Film offers a lifetime warranty for residential applications, alongside a 10-15 year commercial warranty.

Does Clear UV Film Reduce Heat?

Clear UV film significantly reduces heat within interiors, offering immense temperature control benefits to both residential and commercial properties. The film serves as an energy saver by reducing the amount of solar heat transmission, absorbing solar through the glass and limiting the effect of the harsh sunlight on the occupants of a building.

Additionally, most clear 3M window films are protected with an abrasion resistant coat that provides long-term durability and makes maintenance easier. Our clear film offerings are durable, long-lasting, and highly effective at reducing heat.

How Can You Remove Sun Control Film From Glass?

Removing sun control film from glass requires two main steps — first removing the film itself, and then removing the adhesive. Generally, film removal is the easiest step of the process, while removing excess adhesive takes additional time and effort. Ideally, most adhesive will come off while removing the film to minimize additional stick left on your glass.

Sun control film removal typically involves the application of heat to break down enough adhesive for the remaining film to be peeled off. Both steamers and heat guns provide quick and easy ways to slowly peel off film. For more on window film removal from glass, check out our comprehensive guide.

Can I Install a Tinted Film on My Skylights?

Yes, you can install tinted window film in your skylights. Sun control film offers extensive benefits for skylights, including indoor temperature control, anti-glare capabilities, weather reinforcement, and prevention of furniture fading. Skylights are known for their architectural beauty, while also creating some interior problems; tinting can mitigate many of these issues.

Sun control film installation for skylights is similar to any other kind of window film installation — just at a slightly different angle. As with all window film installation, our powerful adhesion ensures our film remains in place.

How to Fix Sun Control Film on Glass

While easy to install (especially with the help of one of our expert installation teams), occasionally sun control film may peel or curl around the edges, or bubble amidst the middle. While bubbling may be fixable, once window film curls it means the adhesive has begun wearing off — requiring entirely new film.

Thankfully, skilled installation will greatly reduce the chances of your window film peeling, curling, or bubbling. Additionally, as mentioned early, most window films come with an extensive warranty; if your installation fails, we’re here to help fix the problem or replace the film entirely.

Install Long-Lasting, Effective Sun Control Solutions With Window Film Depot

Window Film Depot is America’s #1 security & specialty window film installer — a 3M Authorized window film dealer within their Prestige Dealer Network. Our expert installation team ensures durable, highly efficient sun control for your residential or commercial property. Plus, with extensive warranties, we ensure you gain a worthwhile return on your investment. Contact us today to optimize sun control in your business or home.

Heat Reducing Window Film