window film depot anniversary press release group photo

Window Film Depot Celebrates Its 30th Anniversary

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window film depot anniversary press release group photo

ATLANTA, GEORGIA, MAY 10, 2022 — Window Film Depot (WFD) is a family-owned and operated business headquartered in Marietta, Georgia, and has been serving the United States since 1992, marking this year as Window Film Depot’s 30th anniversary.

In honor of celebrating 30 years in business, our company’s founder, Jeff Franson and President Krissy Mosby share the release of a special edition interview. As a leader and pioneer in the window film industry, WFD offers:

  • Professional window film installation
  • Solar control with energy efficiency
  • Security glazing and privacy tinting
  • Commercial graphics printing

“[Window Film Depot] never limited any opportunity that came my way, or any opportunity within the company…I was never told no,” reflects Krissy on her employment with WFD. “I was always brought new opportunities based on what I had achieved…they would never leave me out because I was a woman, or new, or anything like that.”

Embedded throughout the interview, Jeff Franson attributes the success of the company to the essential mindset of not fretting about the small stuff. “Control the things you can control, and don’t let the things you can’t control worry you or bother you, even though it might be expensive…things are going to happen that are out of your control, and if you sweat every detail, you’ll have a heart attack. Focus on blocking and tackling, and you should be able to survive.”

The anniversary interview breaks down into robust sections detailing everything from the company origins to its future. Krissy and Jeff also discuss the role of women in the industry and reveals how the company continues to support the professional development of female employees into leadership roles over the years. The interview concludes with Jeff’s advice to young entrepreneurs hoping to achieve similar success.

Read the full blog post featuring the special 30th anniversary interview on the company’s website.

About Window Film Depot

Window Film Depot [WFD], a nationally recognized installer for 3M window film, delivers and provides custom product solutions and glass security. Known for their high-performance films and related security glazing products associated to commercial and residential window tinting, WFD offers a wide variety of products, installation skills and experience to handle any job – on time and within budget.

For additional information, please visit www.windowfilmdepot.com.

window film depot anniversary interview

Celebrating 30 Years of Window Film Depot With Krissy Mosby and Jeff Franson

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window film depot anniversary interview

After decades of commitment to the window film industry, Window Film Depot is excited to announce that it is turning 30! To celebrate this business milestone and Window Film Day, we sat down with Jeff Franson, FutureVu President, and Krissy Mosby, Window Film Depot President, to reflect on their journeys within the company, their entrepreneurship, and the window film industry over the years.

From Modest Beginnings: The Start of Window Film Depot

Raised by a family of successful entrepreneurs, Jeff Franson always thought he’d run his own business. Yet jump-starting a career in window film was never a part of the original agenda.

While at college, Jeff was studying on a pre-law track; after he learned what attorneys actually did every day at work, however, he quickly came to the conclusion that law was not a field he was excited to work in. From there, Jeff shifted gears.

Following in his family’s footsteps, Jeff determined that the life of an entrepreneur offered excitement, freedom, and innovation. While some would have shied away from the risk of building a new business from the ground up, Jeff embraced the opportunity to capitalize on product gaps in the market. Once he decided that he wanted to build an impactful and successful brand, he drew from previous experiences while exploring potential business ideas.

“I was always comfortable working on homes and buildings,” Jeff explains. “An opportunity presented itself in Atlanta, and I took it. I started to work with my brother on a home services business.”

Jeff Franson and Window Film Depot's Modest Beginnings

Eventually, Jeff and his brother discovered an opening in the market for window film.

“Ultimately, we ran across a really cool product: window film;…people loved it, and they didn’t know where to buy it. So, we kinda ran across it by mistake, and recognized it as a nice long-term business opportunity that we pursued.” With this, the first evolution of Window Film Depot was born.

Initial Growth and Expansion

Window Film Depot found immediate success. Jeff’s hunch that there was a market for window film was proven to be correct, and he discovered his opening at the perfect time.

“We went into Atlanta, which was an extremely strong market for what we do,” Jeff describes, “especially in the 90s and early 2000s, the home market being as explosive as it was. Every day we’d have successes in the field…we’d go out to neighborhoods, knock on doors, and get business.”

As sales rose, so did the need to hire a larger team. Jeff marks Window Film Depot’s early ability to recruit talented and driven individuals as one of the brand’s first major wins, serving as an indication that the company was on the right track.

window film depot anniversary press release group photo

One such talented hire? Krissy Mosby, who joined Window Film Depot as an intern in 2005. Similar to Jeff, Krissy wasn’t originally on a path to window film; she thought she would work in medicine, and had been completing her prerequisites for medical school before taking an opportunity with WFD.

“I started working answering phones, stuffing envelopes, doing mailers, stuff like that,” says Krissy. As she continued through school, her responsibilities increased. “(By the time) I graduated, I was doing sales, and even managing one of the small accounts we had. Jeff offered me a full-time position right out of college. Starting to work instead of going right back into school sounded a lot better at the time!”

Thus began a period of foundational growth for the company; with valued team members and an established local market, it was time to expand even further.

Adapting to a Changing Market

Boosted by a young, determined team and modern capabilities, Window Film Depot rapidly transformed with the times, leveraging new innovations in technology to outpace its competitors.

“We were young in an older man’s business, quite frankly,” explains Jeff. “The internet, early on, was the biggest accelerator of our growth. We employed tools more rapidly than our counterparts…we got out front very quickly, with local landing pages in 40-50 markets around the country.”

Jeff Franson Founder and President of Window Film Depot

Ebbs and flows in markets also drastically changed Window Film Depot’s business model, inadvertently breeding expansion. While largely a local company up until 2007, the housing crash forced Window Film Depot to shift from residential to commercial business. Krissy experienced this shift firsthand.

“Back when I joined, our company was very local here in Atlanta…we were over 95% residential. We started to see a need for a national presence; people had multiple locations, and wanted us to take care of all of them.”

“Around 2008, is really when our business changed. Fast forward, and now we’re over 90% commercial. We’re one of the largest 3M dealers in the country, servicing national accounts.”

This tremendous growth led Window Film Depot to be recognized as the #1 3M Window Film Dealer in the US for multiple years. Even Jeff didn’t foresee this type of growth; according to him, he expected that their team was capable of achieving it, but gaining the title was never a goal. Instead, earning that recognition was a byproduct of Window Film Depot’s commitment to their customers.

It was also around this time that Krissy gained a more major role within Window Film Depot, planting the seeds for the company’s leadership in the future.

“Jeff, who was the President at the time, stayed behind after work one day and asked me if I wanted to become one of the owners of Window Film Depot,” Krissy recalls. “It showed I was valued, and that he wanted me to be a part of the company permanently.”

Impact Security, FutureVu, and the Future of Window Film Depot

As business continued to expand, Window Film Depot began to run into client needs they couldn’t yet handle. With a team full of entrepreneurs, Window Film Depot saw these needs as opportunities to innovate, resulting in the creation of Window Film Depot’s sister brands.

Take, for example, Impact Security, LLC. Window Film Depot customers began experiencing severe smash & grab attacks on their stores; traditional window film wasn’t cutting it. After combing for solutions, Jeff recognized another gap in the market.

“We didn’t see what we thought we needed, partnered with engineers, and invented retrofit security shields,” he explains. From there, Impact Security branched off and became a separate entity from Window Film Depot.

After founding several more successful brands, Jeff created FutureVu to be a single, holistic parent company. While brands such as Window Film Depot would still operate on their own, FutureVu would oversee all company operations, searching for other brands to add to the family.

Today, the FutureVu umbrella encapsulates a number of diverse brands, including Window Film Depot, Impact Security, CoolVu, and LongVu Wholesale Company. Although Window Film Depot was once a group of up-and-comers, Jeff explains, they are now industry leaders, a successful model that others seek to replicate.

“8-10 years ago we went from the young guns who were pushing too hard in a lot of people’s minds, to ‘Wow, these guys have done something special and they’re willing to share.’ No longer am I a young gun, but I’m right in the middle as a forty-something-year-old…I’m considered one of the older guys!”

Window Film Depot: A Pioneer of Female Leadership in Window Film

While Jeff leads FutureVu, Krissy has taken the helm as president of Window Film Depot.

She’s grateful for concentrated internal efforts to support her growth as a professional, especially in such a male-dominated industry.

“(Window Film Depot) never limited any opportunity that came my way, or any opportunity within the company…I was never told no,” explains Krissy. “I was always brought new opportunities based on what I had achieved…they would never leave me out because I was a woman, or new, or anything like that.”

From the company’s start, Window Film Depot has relied on contributions from dedicated women. During early pushes for sales, Jeff’s wife, Hanna, was instrumental in getting the ball rolling.

“My wife, we’ve been together for over 25 years…she and her girlfriends would rollerblade around neighborhoods with flyers,” recalls Jeff. “It wasn’t just me out there, it was a team.”

Even with such a supportive work environment, breaking into the construction industry (or any male-dominated field) isn’t easy for female professionals. Krissy gave specific advice for women looking to succeed like she has.

“Don’t let yourself be intimidated by being the only woman in the room. If at first, it seems like you’re getting pushed back for being a woman, stand strong in your opinions. Be knowledgeable, and you’ll gain the respect of anyone in a conversation.”

Today, Krissy hopes to lead the charge on growing Window Film Depot even further and maintain the positive work culture that kept her on board for so long in the first place.

“There’s always room for growth and improvement in every aspect of the business…continuing to maintain our company values, and striving to make the office a fun and safe work environment. I’ve been with the business for over 15 years…so many of our employees are 5+, 8+ employees of WFD.”

Closing Advice From Jeff to Young Entrepreneurs

To bring things to a close, we asked Jeff to offer words of wisdom to other young entrepreneurs looking to run a business of their own as successful as Window Film Depot. According to Jeff, it’s essential not to fret the small stuff.

“Control the things you can control, and don’t let the things you can’t control worry you or bother you, even though it might be expensive…things are going to happen that are out of your control, and if you sweat every detail you’ll have a heart attack. Focus on blocking and tackling, and you should be able to survive.”

As the past 30 years has proven, Jeff has taken his own advice in stride, exemplifying outstanding leadership with strong leaders such as Jeff and Krissy at the helm, working in tandem to support innovation and drive success in the company. We look forward to another 30 prosperous years of Window Film Depot!

window film day state of georgia

Governor of Georgia Proclaims Window Film Day of Georgia

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window film day state of georgiaIn accordance with National Window Film Day established in 2021, Governor Brian Kemp has joined other state government leaders in proclaiming April 30th Window Film Day of Georgia. This proclamation recognizes that nearly 80 percent of all window film in the world is manufactured in the US, and offers numerous and significant economic and environmental benefits.

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historic window restoration film

Benefits & Best Practices for Using Window Film for Historic Window Restoration

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window film historic window restoration

Are you looking for a better alternative to new glass additions for a government-owned historic building? Historic window restoration is another suitable option for revamps.

Older buildings provide a sense of nostalgia that allows us to recollect memories from our past. This especially applies to long-standing governmental properties found in historic neighborhoods and major cities. Many have a gorgeous architectural style with classic features and design accents, including vintage-style window film frames. The most popular styles back then were stained glass, arches, and transoms.

Upkeep of a historic property may present greater challenges than that of a modern design. Building decomposition and outdated framing styles are just two of many threats faced by historic building owners. On top of that, they’re up against present-day building code requirements that can be costly to adapt to meet.

When structural window damage affects a government-owned property, remodels should quickly follow. Some building owners automatically believe that new window installations are the answer. To replace window film entirely is not only costly. It can also compromise a building’s historic integrity. Ideal upgrades to an older property should preserve the property’s original elements as closely as possible.

3 Benefits of Historic Window Restoration

When restoring windows on government-owned historic buildings, the U.S. Department of Interior recommends the usage of window film. They even provide guidelines and best practices for doing so in their “Standards for Rehabilitation & Illustrated Guidelines on Sustainability for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings.”

When the time comes for window renovations on an older property, these benefits alone should convince you that window film restoration is the way to go.

Preserves & Restores Historical Buildings

Simply put, you’re more likely to keep a historic building’s appearance intact with window film restoration–not window film replacements. Going the route of preservation and restoration has its fair share of benefits, including the avoidance of glass damage and the protection of valuable interior furnishings.

Proper maintenance on a building’s original windows is not as invasive as other methods of repair. It’s also less expensive, less time-consuming, and much more sustainably sound.

Increased or Improved Energy Efficiency

Professionally-restored windows are known to increase energy efficiency, which can potentially lead to a 25-30% reduction in heat escaping from the windows.

Much can also be accomplished by retrofitting historic windows with clear film or high-performance glazing, including greater energy efficiency that’ll likely reduce cooling costs by 25-30%.

Additionally, retrofitting curtain-wall systems and historic steel windows has its fair share of sustainability perks–one being improved thermal performance and greater indoor comfort

Advanced UV Ray Protection

When restored properly, window film achieves the goal of blocking harmful UV rays. This can increase prevention of skin damage and deterioration of property valuables.

Where Do I Find Solutions for Historic Window Restoration Near Me?

Do you have pressing needs for historic window restoration on a government-owned building? You can trust Window Film Depot to get the job done!

We offer a vast selection of 3M™ window films used for restoration purposes–including specified products for certain industries. Rest assured that we’re equipped with the right solutions for your project.

Our restoration techniques are top-tier, guaranteeing that you’ll be left with a finished product that exceeds your expectations.

Costs for window preservation may vary based on a number of factors. Contact our team today to request a personalized cost estimate!

dual reflective privacy window film

What is Dual-Reflective Window Film?

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dual reflective privacy window film

Since natural light is so desirable in homes, office buildings, and retail spaces, the current trend is to install the biggest and most expansive windows possible. While they improve value and aesthetics, large windows do sacrifice privacy as onlookers can see straight into your building. Fortunately, there is a solution to your privacy issue: dual-reflective window film.

This type of reflective window film is designed to offer privacy during the day and reduce reflections at night. It’s called dual-reflective window film because both sides of the film offer benefits. The outside layer is designed to be highly reflective so that people outside can’t see in during the daytime and the inner layer helps to improve visual clarity at night.

Does reflective window film improve privacy?

The primary goal of reflective window films is to increase privacy for those inside. Plain glass with no reflectivity has high visibility from the inside and outside during the daytime. The shiny metallic surface of these types of window films reflects daylight and makes it difficult to see inside.

Dual-reflective window film at night won’t offer the same level of privacy though. Since there is no light reflecting off the metallic exterior surface, people will still be able to see in your home when it is dark outside.

Mirror Window Film vs. Dual-Reflective Window Film

How are reflective mirror window film and dual-reflective window film different? The answer is that they are very similar films. Both are designed to increase privacy, along with offering improved energy efficiency and UV protection.

The difference lies in the benefits offered by the interior layer of the film. Dual-reflective film has an interior layer with a less metallic surface which helps to improve nighttime visibility for people inside the building. This means that your views aren’t compromised by the installation of the film.

Mirror window films are a special type of one-way film that’s main focus is its privacy capabilities. The outside of mirror window films are highly reflective, or “mirror-like” to make it very difficult to see inside.

These window films do not have an interior finish to change the way the film is viewed from the inside but offer a clear, undistorted view from indoors. Mirror window films are a convenient and cost-efficient solution to convert windows into one-way privacy glass.

Advantages of Dual-Reflective Window Film

There are numerous benefits to installing privacy window films. Of course, the main advantage is its ability to reflect outside scenery, making it difficult to see inside. This increases privacy and security for people inside. This reflectivity can also reduce glare and improve views in both daytime and nighttime.

Another benefit is its ability to reflect solar heat which can improve comfort and also reduce energy costs. The building will be cooler overall, so your air conditioner will have less work to do in the hot summer months, saving you money on your energy bill.

Finally, dual-reflective window film blocks a large percentage of harmful UV light and rays. Not only does this prevent damage to your skin, but it also protects furnishings and hardwood floors from fading.

When to use Dual-Reflective Window Film

Dual-reflective privacy window film is most commonly used in commercial settings rather than residential ones because this type of film does change the appearance of the windows. Not only does it add a mirror-like effect to the windows, but it will also make them darker. This is why many people find other window films to be better for residential use.

In general, though, dual-reflective window film is best used in situations where privacy is needed during the daytime, but you want to maintain views at night. Maybe you have large windows that look out onto a skyline and want to still get those views once the sun has set. Dual-reflective films would be a great choice for you.

Privacy Window Film Installations

As the #1 3M Window Film installer in the nation, Window Film Depot offers several product solutions and professional installation services for your privacy needs.

As one of the most popular products for its range of benefits, 3M Solar Mirror Film is a good option for commercial applications that demand flexible and reflective film for both privacy and sun control. It is the ideal one-way mirror window film for day and night.

At Window Film Depot, we can help you choose and install the right mirror window film to suit your unique needs and aesthetic. Learn more about your options by calling 1-866-933-3456 or contact us online to get started.

Krissy Mosby Named President of Window Film Depot

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Window Film Depot (WFD), a leading window film installation contractor, today announced the promotion of Krissy Mosby to President. She succeeds Jeff Franson, who founded the business along with family members, Chris Sullivan and Stephen Franson, in the early ’90s.

“I am excited to take on this role and to lead WFD into this next stage of our business,” said Mosby. “I will focus on growth, driven by our already exceptional customer service and by leveraging the latest technologies and products in our industry. Doing so, while maintaining the values of our family business, will be my key focus.”

Since 2000, Window Film Depot has been the largest volume 3M dealer of solar and security window films in the US. Mosby, who started working with the business as a summer intern while studying at the University of Georgia, has been a big part of the company’s growth over the last ten plus years, serving most recently as National Accounts Director.

According to Franson, “Window Film Depot had been a predominantly local business; however, we recognized a need for national accounts to be serviced differently. Early on, and as expected, we met a lot of resistance as we grew geographically into markets across the US. We were early adopters of heavy investments in Google PPC while building out multiple city landing webpages to drive leads. Our strategy was to go after multi-site commercial work aggressively, deliver superior project management and install quality, while using trusted materials. With the support of our main supplier 3M, it proved a winning strategy for our family business.”

Mosby had much to do with the past successes of the business and played a key role in implementing this new strategy.

“We couldn’t be happier or better positioned for the next stage of growth for the brand,” concluded Franson. “Krissy has been ‘under the hood’ and out front in our business for over a decade. She has been responsible for many successes along the way. A smart and tenacious business developer and operator, Krissy will lead the business forward in exciting ways.”

About Window Film Depot

Headquartered in Marietta, GA, WFD has completed over 50,000 projects, providing architectural film solutions for customers, ranging from the Vatican and the executive branch of the US government to numerous national retailers in all 50 states.

Window Film Depot pioneered the national service model now prevalent across the industry, proving a historically local business model could translate nationally with the right mix of technology, people talent, and investment.

As 3M’s first ‘million-dollar dealer’ and three-time 3M “National Dealer of the Year Award” recipient, the company has been named Window Film Magazine’s ‘Top Window Film Dealer’ on numerous occasions.

photochromic electrochromic window film glazing

What is Electrochromic Glass vs Photochromic Glass?

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photochromic electrochromic window film glazing

Both electrochromic film and photochromic film are some of the industry’s most advanced dynamic glazing products offering transformational capabilities for your windows. However, these technologies are very different and offer varying benefits.

While one offers on-demand privacy, the other offers dynamic sun control. We’ll break down the technology behind these films so you can better understand which is right for you.

What is Smart Glass?

Smart glass refers to a variety of intelligent glass options with varying properties that can transition depending on circumstances and includes switchable smart film (smart tint) and switchable smart glass.

There are three types of smart glass: both electrochromic glass and photochromic glass fall into this smart glass category.

Some glass comes with photochromic or electrochromic technology already built-in. Alternatively, smart glass film can be applied to existing glass, giving it either electrochromic or photochromic capabilities.

Electrochromic Window Film

Electrochromic film, also known as electrochromic window tint or “switchable” film, is a unique product that turns windows from transparent to frosted or tinted on command. It can be used in a variety of installations, from interior to exterior, where on-demand privacy or sun protection is required.

Electrochromic is a word used to describe materials that can change color when energized by an electrical current. The electrochromic tint of electrochromic windows is controlled by the amount of voltage applied to the glass. At the press of a button, the voltage changes, causing a reaction within the electrons that changes the way it reflects light.

The main advantage of these smart glass windows is that you can directly control the switchable nature so that you can tint the window when needed but leave it transparent in other situations. This maximizes access to views and the desired amount of light, allowing design freedom and giving architects the ability to design without blinds or other window shades.

Electrochromic glazing is ideal in many situations but is often applied in interior installations on windows, doors, and glass walls to provide a dynamic layer of privacy. Commercial, government and educational buildings can all benefit from the use of switchable window films.

Additionally, this type of film can be used for exterior purposes to change the tint of windows on command. However, it often lacks the sun and temperature control capabilities that photochromic film delivers.

Photochromic Window Film

Another common name for photochromic film is “transitional” film. This type of film changes from clear to tinted when exposed to the sun’s UV rays through a chemical process within the glass. It adapts to the amount of sunlight to provide concentrated levels of sun protection, but only when it’s needed.

Photochromic glass truly is “smart glass” since it adapts on its own and doesn’t require electricity to power it. A popular photochromic film product is CoolVu transitional film, which blocks 99% of UV rays and reduces solar-induced heat by up to 80% while still maintaining your desired aesthetic. This built-in UV and heat blocking smart glass technology help save money on cooling costs, allowing buildings to run their air conditioning less. You get the same energy savings and light glare reduction as static tint films without unattractive metallic tint.

Electrochromic Window Film for your Building

While photochromic films are more beneficial for their sun control capabilities, electrically switchable electrochromic films are more appropriate in the context of privacy and when a certain aesthetic needs to be maintained.

Whatever your smart glass needs are, Window Film Depot is here to help. When it comes to deciding between electrochromic or photochromic window films, we can discuss with you what your needs are to help guide you to the best solution.

Carbon Footprint Reduction Tips

Improve Carbon Footprint & Reduce Energy Consumption in Commercial Buildings with 3M Window Film

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Carbon Footprint Reduction Tips

With current and upcoming carbon footprint reduction mandates aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, building owners, developers, and architects need a cost-effective solution to ensure compliance and avoid costly fines and penalties.

In addition to ensuring local and federal law compliance, there are many additional benefits of reducing carbon emissions from buildings. These include lower heating and cooling bills, lower electricity bills, and even funding and rebates available to buildings that have made these modifications.

Cities including New York City, Boston, and Washington DC have led the charge on carbon footprint reduction by mandating buildings to reduce and report their energy usage. These cities will be imposing fines and penalties as early as 2022 for non-compliance. With such a fast-approaching deadline, finding a fast, efficient, and cost-effective solution – like window film – will allow building owners to remain compliant without making significant changes to their building or systems.

What is Carbon Footprint Reduction?

Carbon footprint reduction is the practice of consuming less energy. According to a study by the U.S. Department of Energy, commercial and residential buildings combined consume nearly 40 percent of the total energy usage in the United States, more than both the industry and transportation sectors.

Today, there are more than 4.7 million commercial buildings in the United States alone.

With the recent carbon footprint reduction mandate put into action by the Biden administration, taking carbon footprint reduction measures is more important than ever. Biden’s 2030 greenhouse gas reduction target aims to reduce greenhouse gases by 50-52 percent by 2050 from the levels measured in 2005.

Part of this plan includes supporting energy efficiency upgrades in previously constructed buildings and adopting modern energy codes for new buildings. Finding a cost-effective solution for how to reduce CO2 emissions in buildings now will let owners and developers get ahead of expected state laws and legislation designed to support the greenhouse gas reduction target goals.

Federal State Carbon Footprint Reduction Initiatives

Federal and Local Carbon Footprint Reduction Initiatives

There are both Federal and Local carbon footprint reduction initiatives and laws that building owners and developers need to be aware of. Non-compliance with these initiatives can carry serious fines and penalties, making compliance crucial.

Federal Climate Policy 106

Federal Climate Policy 106 focuses on reducing carbon emissions in the building sector, which consists of both residential and commercial buildings in the United States. Without factoring in the use of electricity, the building sector accounts for 12.5 percent of the total greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. This includes using fossil fuels for heating, cooling, and cooking.

However, once electricity usage is factored back into the equation, this number jumps to almost 40 percent. In other words, electricity usage in the building sector accounts for roughly 25 – 27 percent of greenhouse gasses in the country.

Building energy codes require new and renovated buildings to adopt energy efficiency features in their construction and design, and can include requirements for the building envelope (insulation, windows, walls, and roof), ventilation, cooling and heating systems, and lighting.

Making improvements to all of these elements can be costly, so finding a multi-purpose solution to address several of these elements at once can save builders and developers quite a bit of money.

NYC Local Law 97 of 2019

NYC Local Law 97 & Climate Mobilization Act

In New York City, buildings account for about two-thirds of greenhouse gas emissions. In April 2019, the City Council passed the Climate Mobilization Act & Local Law 97. Both of these initiatives were part of Mayor de Blasio’s New York City Green New Deal, a systematic plan for the city to be carbon neutral by 2050.

Local Law 97 requires most buildings over 25,000 square feet to meet new greenhouse gas emissions and energy efficiency limits by 2024. Those limits will become stricter in 2030.

With only two years for NYC buildings to meet new energy standards, owners and developers need to quickly address these issues – or face fines and penalties if Local Law 97 compliance is not met.

Emissions Limits for Commercial Buildings in NYC

With emissions limits already being significantly reduced in New York City, understanding current and upcoming limits is an important part of implementing the right carbon footprint reduction methods that will make the most impact.

Local Law 97 Compliance Emissions Limits

berdo boston compliance

Boston’s Climate Action Plan

Buildings account for over 70% of greenhouse gas emissions in Boston. As part of the city of Boston’s Climate Action Plan, they introduced the Building Energy Reporting and Disclosure Ordinance. Also known as BERDO, the ordinance requires large- and medium-sized buildings to report both energy and water usage every year.

Additionally, buildings are also required to complete a major energy savings action or assessment every five years. BERDO Boston is public information and allows for easy benchmarking of commercial and residential buildings’ energy consumption and improvements.

Energy Benchmarking DC

Clean Energy Benchmarking in Washington DC

Clean Energy DC, signed into effect in 2017, is Washington DC’s climate and energy action plan that outlines the specific actions and steps that need to be taken to achieve tangible carbon reduction goals for the district.

The Clean Energy DC Plan aims to reduce emissions by 56% in 2032 compared to the baseline taken in 2005, similar to the plan set forth by the Biden administration. Washington DC’s sustainability plan outlines 57 concrete actions that need to be taken to achieve this goal.

Washington DC energy benchmarking for buildings has been required since 2008. But with the introduction of Clean Energy DC, there came the Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS) that were outlined in the Clean Energy DC Omnibus Amendment Act of 2018. According to BEPS, buildings must maintain a minimum energy performance no lower than the local median ENERGY STAR score by property type.

Carbon Footprint Reduction Tips & Measures

Lighting

Installing or upgrading current lighting in existing buildings can help save energy and therefore reduce energy consumption. Upgrading all lightbulbs to LED bulbs is a good starting point. Another way to reduce your carbon footprint is to utilize solar power wherever possible. This can include outdoor lighting that uses solar boxes instead of traditional power sources.

HVAC

Improving the performance of your HVAC system can be expensive if you focus primarily on upgrading the system itself. However, by installing window film on all of the windows and doors of your building, you can improve the overall insulation of the building. In turn, this reduces the need for your HVAC system to run as frequently, which in turn reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Insulating Glass Windows

Similar to HVAC systems, replacing or reinforcing all of the windows in a building is an expensive, disruptive and unsightly process that can take a long time to complete. Window film is a much more affordable, less disruptive option that won’t change the aesthetic of your building – unless you want it to! Installing window film adds an additional layer of protection and insulation to windows, and turns a single pane of glass into a double pane, and a double pane into a triple pane.

Renovations & Adaptive Reuse

Builders and developers can make a greater impact by making renovations to an existing building or practicing adaptive reuse. Instead of building a new small freestanding retail store, renovating an existing abandoned corner unit in an otherwise busy building will reduce the carbon footprint by eliminating the need for new construction and materials.

Similarly, adaptive reuse repurposes entire existing buildings, which in turn takes away the initial carbon emissions created during the construction process, allowing the development to participate in a circular economy.

Because of these laws and regulations, many new buildings are being constructed to be net-zero. Different from carbon-neutral buildings, which is when buildings significantly reduce their carbon emissions and then offset the rest, net-zero buildings produce on-site or utilize renewable, carbon-free energy to sustain building operations.

How to Improve Building Envelope

Reduce Emissions with Commercial Building Envelope Improvements

Improving the building envelope in an existing building is fairly easy when you take the right steps. The building envelope consists of the roof, windows, exterior doors and cladding, and is often overlooked when it comes to carbon footprint reduction. But improving the building envelope is a great way to reduce building emissions.

Implementing low-cost, high reward strategies, like using window film to improve the building envelope, will allow commercial buildings to monitor energy consumption and reduction over time without making a huge investment upfront.

Since window film is applied to glass windows and doors, it addresses two out of four of the elements of the building envelope.

Reducing Energy Consumption in Commercial BuildingsWays to Reduce Energy Consumption in Commercial Buildings Using Window Film

Making significant, complex improvements to large commercial buildings can be disruptive to tenants, take months – even years – to complete, and depending on the upgrade, can be quite costly.

In contrast, window film is an aesthetically pleasing, comparatively inexpensive solution for commercial buildings to reduce energy consumption.

Reduce HVAC Energy Costs

As we discussed earlier, 3M™ window film products can help reduce HVAC energy costs in commercial buildings. This is achieved in several ways.

Heat control films allow buildings to regulate moderate temperatures more effectively by rejecting UV rays and electromagnetic energy, eliminating the need for a drastically fluctuating thermostat.

Low E and insulating films provide both heat blocking technology and window insulation, retaining cool air during the summer and warm air during the winter. This reduces the reliance on an HVAC system to run more frequently during extreme temperatures.

Improve Window Insulation

Installing window film helps provide insulation, which is yet another way to improve your building envelope efficiency.

Window film turns single pane windows into double pane windows and double pane windows into triple-pane windows without the expense of adding actual glass to the window itself.

This added layer of protection and insulation helps reduce HVAC costs by helping keep heat in during cooler months and cool air during warmer months.

Not only is window film for commercial buildings a cost-effective way to improve your building envelope, but they also have additional benefits that other upgrades and improvements don’t.

Additional Benefits of Window Film

    • Sun control and heat reduction benefits of window film don’t just improve building envelope efficiency, but also increase the comfort of tenants.
    • UV blocking technology provides additional safety to tenants, equipment, and furnishings.
    • Window film provides added window security and shatter protection to exterior glass
    • Dark and reflective films allow buildings to update the look of their doors and windows
    • Clear films like 3M™ Prestige provide sun control, climate control, and energy savings benefits without changing the appearance of glass for building owners who don’t wish to alter building appearances.
    • Window film has no visual impact, allowing for easy approval from historical societies
    • With 3M™ window film installation, labor and materials are warrantied by 3M™ Company for up to 15 years
    • Certain states offer funding, rebates, and programs including LEED points and ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager score increases

For more information about how you can use 3M Window Film products to improve your building envelope and reduce your building’s carbon footprint, please fill out the contact form below or call 1-866-933-3456.

How To Remove Old Window Tint

How to Remove Old Window Tint from Residential and Commercial Buildings

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How To Remove Old Window TintWindow tinting films offer privacy, UV protection, and energy efficiency, so they’re a popular window film solution. However, all window tint films have a lifespan and once they go bad, you’re left with bubbling, peeling, unattractive films that need to be removed and replaced.

Not all window films are created equal and some will go bad before others. A window tint’s lifespan depends on several factors: quality of the film itself, exposure to the elements, and the quality of installation. A professional installation can mean the difference between decades of savings or a few short years before the tint needs to be replaced.

Reasons to Remove Old Window Tint

Bubbling

Bubbling is caused by failing adhesive and poor installation methods. Many people will try peeling and reapplying the area that has bubbled, but this can make the situation worse. Unfortunately, once a film has bubbled, it needs to be fully replaced.

Discoloration

Over time, window tint will become an unappealing purplish color due to the breakdown of certain dyes in the window film. Discoloration also means the film has lost its UV blocking capabilities, so it should be replaced with a newer, effective window film.

Aesthetics

Sometimes it’s just time for an upgrade. While your window film may not be failing, it could look dated and require replacement. This can be the most difficult situation for removal, though, because the adhesive will still be intact and much harder to remove.

How to Remove Baked on Window Film

When it comes to how to remove old window tint, there are several solutions out there that you can try yourself, or hire a professional team to perform for you. There are two aspects to window tint removal: removing the film itself and removing the adhesive.

If done appropriately, peeling the film off should be fairly easy. However, if done wrong you may end up with tiny bits of film left on the window that you’ll spend lots of time peeling and scraping at. If possible, you want to pull off the film in large chunks.

Removing window film adhesive takes time and effort. The goal is to have as much of the adhesive come off with the window film as possible. Then you’re left with a minimal sticky mess that will take elbow grease and solvents to remove.

After the film and adhesive have been removed, you will need to thoroughly clean the window before installing a new film. Any bits of dirt or adhesive that remain can cause bubbles and other issues.

The primary method of removal involves using heat to break down the window film adhesive so that the remaining tint can be peeled off. There are several tools you can use to accomplish this method and it is often seen as the easiest way to remove window tint. Use the heat starting at the corner of the window and as it starts to peel, heat new areas of adhesive to loosen it up.

Steamers

You can use a steamer to remove window tint and this is often seen as one of the quickest and easiest ways to do it. If you don’t have a steamer available, one can be rented. Use the steamer on both the interior and exterior (if possible) of the window to loosen the film and peel it away. This will also soften the adhesive, making it easier to remove film and glue at the same time.

Heat Guns

Curious how to remove window tint with a heat gun? Similar to using a steamer, the heat gun should be used on both the interior and exterior of the window to break down the adhesive. Once this is done, you should be able to pull the film off and scrape away any remaining adhesive with the tools below.

How to Remove Window Film Adhesive From Glass

Solvents

Once you’ve used one of the above methods to remove the film itself, you can use a solvent to remove window tint glue. Acetone, isopropyl alcohol, or a window film adhesive remover are all very effective in breaking down the glue which can then be wiped or scraped off.

Sprays

You can also use a specially formulated window tint removal spray to remove the glue residue. These can be purchased at home improvement or auto parts stores.

Scraping

You may feel inclined to take a razor blade or sharp object to your window when you get down to the last bits of adhesive but use caution. It’s very easy to scratch the window if you don’t know what you’re doing. Once the window is scratched, there is nothing to do but replace it.

Removing Window Tint in Cold Weather

Since the main approach to removing window tint involves heat, it can be trickier to remove window tint in cold weather. You may struggle more to keep the adhesive soft in cold weather, but if you take your time and keep the heat gun or steamer close to the edge you’re peeling off, you should be fine.

Easiest Way to Remove Window Tint

We respect the DIY’ers out there, but window film removal and installation can easily be done wrong. Since installation plays such a huge role in the longevity of your window tint, we highly recommend hiring a team for professional installation. At Window Film Depot, we are ready to handle all of your residential and commercial window tint removal needs.

All of our contractors have been thoroughly trained on both removal and installation techniques so your residential or commercial project will be performed to the highest standards. This means you don’t have to worry about damaged glass or bubbly installations. You can sit back and let the professionals handle the hard work and know you’ll be much happier with the end product.

Interested in learning more about Window Film Depot’s products and installation services? You can contact us online or by calling 1-866-933-3456.