Heat Reducing Window Film

There may have been threats of 15-20 inches of snow in the Northeast last week, but that is no indication of the demand for high performance window film installations by the nation’s leaders in energy management films like Window Film Depot. 

The economy has not tanked, buyers have found their bearing and well positioned operations are poised to take advantage of pent up demand. It’s clear that the advances across the window film industry have created a momentum that bodes well for consumers and dealers of these cool energy control film products. So, what’s been happening?

1. Awareness is increasing: Simply put, window film is no longer a product known to a select few. New sellers of the product like Home Depot, Lowes,  Budget Blinds and JCPenney are helping  bring architectural window films to the masses. To the Pro’s in the industry and those who sit back and take a cool-headed look at the dynamic, it’s clear that these new marketers of film products are helping by increasing the size of the pie. Savvy and knowledgeable dealers are taking advantage.

Government tax incentives for film installation for residences, utility rebates that help offset commercial installation costs and recent work by the IWFA to make public the benefits of solar control products are helping marinate the market to the upside for window film installation.

2. Efficiency is the winning bet: With Solyndra and dozens of other negative stories circulating about renewables here in the US, the public appetite for this side of the ‘energy’ coin has waned. Window film solutions are on the right side of the energy story. Flip the coin over and you’ve got ‘conservation’. Once a feel-good term associated with environmental types, today there’s serious money in saving money through conservation.  ESCO’s and other ‘bundelers’ of efficiency measures are today regularly adding window films installation to their solution set they recommend to building owners looking to reduce energy costs, improve comfort, attain LEED accreditation or attract socially conscious tenants.

3. Film technology has advanced: ‘Dark and Shiny’ have left the building. Today’s films are advanced technology – and getting better each season. The trend continues to be lighter (near invisible) films that reduce heat gain by blocking IR energy through a window yet allowing the visible light spectrum to pass through glass. Architects are taking notice and spec’ing these window films like never before on on both new and renovation projects.  Impressive new exterior film products give architects and glaziers new ways to approach the problem of heat gain where insulated glass is a concern. (We still offer ‘dark and shiny’ – they do the job, but the new films are responsible for getting the industry on a bigger radar)

4. Window Film is no longer a ‘black sheep’: See ‘dark and shiny’ above. Oh yeah, films come in handy when the wrong glass is spec’d and safety issues prevelent in the post 9-11 era have created a need to secure glass in sensitive buildings across the country.

5. Dealers and industry members are marketing better: Window film dealers do not have a strong historical record at marketing their products and services.  It’s ironic given how passionate the people are who are in this industry (and how much they like to talk about window tinting). That’s changing. We’re starting to see a new breed of dealer leveraging technology, SEM and Social media more effectively than ever before. ‘Viral’ videos are just the tip of the iceberg for targeted marketing campaigns.

Approved presentations to be shown during ‘lunch-and-learns’ for Architects and USGBC groups are now available and offer continuing ed credits, further incentivizing these important influencers to learn about our products and services.

Winning case studies and quality third party validations are the best methods at helping expand the awareness and acceptance of window film as a top-tier product for efficiency upgrades. That’s where the responsibility of the dealer comes in most poingnantly.

By making sure the appropriate film technology is chosen for each custom installation, professional installers perform the application and that the necessary customer support is there on the backend when there are problens to fix will help to reinforce the virtuous loop we are currently enjoying. Success begets success.

Your windows are a problem.

They are the first and last thing people see as they come and go. Useful, architectural, but they’re costing you. And you’re paying the price every day.

So, what do want from your windows? Do you want windows that save you money?  Make you more comfortable? Safer?

Fortunately, we have your solution.

With 3M window films installed by a three time Dealer of the Year, Window Film Depot, your windows will go to work for you immediately.

You need to reduce energy costs and we can help. 3M energy conservation film reduces heat gain through windows, lowering stress on cooling systems during peak demand. No more brownouts disrupting business continuity. 3M window films qualify for LEED points and utility rebates, improving desirability while lowering building operating costs.

Tenant complaints? Our window films selectively filter sunlight to reduce harsh glare.  Employees focus on productivity, not on nagging headaches.
Indoor space is instantly transformed into a comfort zone for customers and tenants. No more fighting at the thermostat.

Inventory loss? 3M window film blocks 99% of the sun’s UV radiation, protecting merchandise from sun damage and premature fading. Security window film defends against smash and grab crime by creating an impressive invisible barrier – a significant obstacle to would-be thieves.

GSA approved, 3M security films reduce the danger of shattered glass caused by bomb blast, severe weather or industrial accidents.

And when it’s time to stand out, design pros can easily create new concepts and impactful branding with low cost graphical films customized for storefronts.

Family owned and operated, Window Film Depot provides national installation services of 3M solar, security and specialty films for a world-class clientele.

You’re already paying for 3M window film if you’re letting standard windows drive up your costs. Contact us today to start putting your windows to work for you.

Jeff @windowfilmdepot.com

877-23M-FILM

Today’s distinctive windows and glass are mainly configured to insulate against heat deprivation, exuberant solar energy, air percolation and curb impairment from ultraviolet illumination.

Safety and security films provide an all-embracing array of solar and aesthetic solutions for any commercial setting. 3M Security window film can be applied to many types of insulating glass with or without heat-blocking solar control capabilities.

Security window film’s primary function is to hold glass intact if broken, preventing fragments from becoming deadly missiles. Since security window film adhesives do not rupture, treated glass absorbs substantial levels of force or attempted glass breakage.

When windows are untreated and subjected to force, glass often breaks off into fragments that are expelled jeopardizing facility residents. If your facility bears unprotected panes of glass at or near base level, glass observance rooms, glass thresholds, or other glass inductions, both occupants and faculties are at peril of glass-related injuries. Watch a demo

Window Film Depot is certified to install 3M Safety & Security glass protection systems nationwide. Create a comfortable environment while lowering operating costs. Add Scotchshield to create an invisible barrier of protection.

We specialize in high risk storefront, commercial & government facilities. 3M Ultra Safety & Security films are patented multi-layer films tested to meet the most demanding government specifications.

Family owned, Window Film Depot provides national installation services of 3M window films. We are the only dealer with true national coverage having satellite offices close to our customers in major markets across the US.

To have a Window Film Depot professional assist you, call 866-933-3456.

When talking about ‘Safety & security window film or Glass Impact Attachment Systems’, many people refer to them as ‘Shatterproof Window Film’.

Other names commonly used for 3M security window films include: fragment retention film; anti-terrorism film; blast-resistant film; safety film; security film; safety and security film; mylar film, blast curtain film; glass protection film, and shatter-resistant film.

In actuality, there are certain types of 3M Safety and Security films which keep shattered glass in place (similar to a car windshield), strongly deterring entry preventing theft. Normally upon impact the alarm is triggered also further minimizing chances of asset loss.

Learn more about 3M Impact Protection Adhesive (IPA) caulking systems. Watch a video here.

3M fragment retention security films secure glass during blast, seismic, shatter or ‘smash and grab’ events. Window film helps hold the glass in place so criminals don’t have the quick access they need to successfully smash and grab merchandise.

Get secure with nearly unbreakable clear or tinted 3M Ultra films.

Window Film Depot  is certified to install 3M Safety & Security glass protection systems nationwide. Specializing in high risk storefront, commercial facilities, we have performed numerous  installations for DHS, DOD, USACE and other government agencies.

Watch a 3M explosive blast test demo here…see how treated glass remains intact vs untreated.

Did you know Safety Film can be applied to your existing glass installation?

Feel free to visit www.windowfilmdepot.com/security for more information about security window films.

Call 866-933-3456 for a professional assessment or click here to contact us.

To get the best out of your 3M Safety & Security Window Films, it is important that special care be given them. Although 3M Window films in general and the Safety and Security window film series are not difficult to take care of, a few things are worth noting and passing on to whomever is in charge of making sure the windows are well taken care of.

1. 3M Safety & Security Window Films may be washed with common washing solutions, including ammonia-based products, thirty (30) days after installation. It is important to keep abrasive type cleaning agents and bristle brushes away from your filmed windows as they might scratch the window film and ruin the elegance of your windows.
2. It is okay to use synthetic sponges, squeegees or soft cloths with the cleaning solution; in fact those are highly recommended. Using tape or other adhesive products on the film could compromise your warranty.
3. After installation, there may be a hazy appearance on your windows. This condition is temporary and is caused by the moisture that is present when applying the film. This hazy appearance will disappear after the film dries; however, it may take up to thirty (30) days for the film to completely dry. If you have just installed your window film, it might take a little longer to dry because cold weather conditions usually require additional time.

Most importantly, get the installation of 3M Safety & Security Films on your windows done professionally and by authorized 3M dealers. Better still visit your local Window Film Depot to get the best solutions and care. For a complimentary feasibility study, contact Jeff@windowfilmdepot.com

This is the last and final installation of a three part series we began a couple of days ago in order to give a proper explanation of the warranties provided under the 3M Safety and Security Window Films. We decided to break it into three parts for easy digestion. If you have any questions or enquiries, use the comment’s form below this post.

If you use 3M Safety and Security Window Films for your building and discover that there is a thermal shock fracture, 3M or its authorized dealer warrants against that to a maximum value of $500 per window. This will only apply if the thermal shock fracture was as a direct result of the application of 3M Safety & Security Film IF the film was applied to the recommended types of glass and the glass failure is reported to the Seller within the specified time, which is 60 days.

Once this thermal shock fracture is reported to the authorized seller within the specified time, the failure would be reviewed by the Seller before any repairs take place and will only cover film and glass replacement.

To obtain a warranty for defective film or glass failure, your 3M Authorized Security Window Film Dealer like Window Film Depot. With 3M Safety & Security Window Films, you really are covered and protected. If you are not sure what windows are recommended, contact Jeff@windowfilmdepot.com for more information.