After nearly a year of wearing masks, many people are starting to get fatigued by them and looking for an alternative, but is there one? Clear face shields for COVID 19 are often brought up as substitutes, but are face shields as effective as masks?

If you’re exploring alternatives to face masks, make sure you do plenty of research on the benefits and risks of each form of protection so you know you’re doing everything you can to keep yourself and those around you safe.

There is plenty of competing information out there, so we have gathered information from reputable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization to answer the question, “are face shields as good as masks?”

Are Face Shields Better Than Masks?

To answer this question, we first need to look at how the coronavirus is spread. According to the CDC, “COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets. Respiratory droplets travel into the air when you cough, sneeze, talk, shout or sing. These droplets can then land in the mouths or noses of people who are near you, or they may breathe these droplets in.” 

For this reason, masks are the best form of protection. Over numerous studies, masks have proven to be the most effective at stopping the spread of these respiratory droplets. On the other hand, plastic face shields can protect the eyes from exposure where masks do not.  

Is Eye Protection Necessary?

One’s eyes are a vulnerable area of exposure to coronavirus-containing droplets. Plastic face shields provide an added layer of protection that most masks lack. For healthcare professionals, educators, restaurant works, care providers, or any individual exposed to people throughout the day, a plastic face mask is recommended reinforcement to minimize spread.  

Keep in mind that plastic face shields provide an initial barrier of protection, but droplets in the environment can still be inhaled through the open areas around the plastic visor. Face shields are primarily used to protect the eyes but have large gaps below and alongside the face where your respiratory droplets may escape and reach others around you. 

The same goes for breathing in others’ droplets. While there isn’t as much research available on how well face shields protect you from those around you, it can be assumed that if droplets are escaping around the bottom of the shield, they can also be breathed in that way. That means that reusable face shields are best used in conjunction with masks, not in place of them. 

Benefits of Face Shields

The CDC may not recommend using face shields as a substitute to masks, but they are a great addition to them. One major weakness of masks is that they do not protect the eyes of the wearer. When worn along with a mask, face shields provide the most protection, keeping droplets and spray away from the mouth, nose, and eyes. 

Face shields also provide the additional benefit of keeping the wearer from touching their face. One of the main ways viruses like coronavirus is spread through people touching their eyes, nose, or mouth, allowing the virus to enter the body. Face shields prevent the dangerous spread of germs by making it difficult to touch your face with potentially infected hands.

Best Face Shields 

When it comes to keeping employees safe, you don’t want to take any chances. If your employees work in high exposure settings, a face shield can be a very beneficial added layer of defense against contracting COVID 19. 

RealShield is a full-face, clear face shield that protects both employees and customers. It’s durable, lightweight, and comfortable to wear, attaching to most hats and visors. It is reusable and crafted from shatterproof polycarbonate to be washed with soap and water and worn again. This safety face shield for teachers, students, and other employees prevents face touching to mitigate the spread of germs and shields from respiratory droplets that may enter the mouth, nose, or eyes. Available in both adult and child sizes, RealShield is durable, long-lasting, and designed with comfort in mind.

Also available are 3N1 multi-use protective face shields for use in critical care environments. Three removable layers make it easy to dispose of harmful pathogens on the exposed shield, offering three shields in one. The adhesive stays with the discarded layer and eliminates residue on the remaining safety face shields. These face shields for medical workers protect the vision, face, and mouth of emergency, primary, and critical care personnel, all while offering convenience much needed in this fast-paced environment. 

Buy Face Shield Products 

• 3N1 Multi-Use Face Shields
• RealShield Clear Face Shields
• RealShield Youth Face Shields for Kids

Bulk face shields can be purchased through DefenseLite.com for use in schools, restaurants, hospitals, churches, or other organizations with many employees in need of face shields. If you’re looking for face shields to keep your employees safe, look no further than RealShield and 3N1 multi-use face shields.

Whether you need UV reflective window films for commercial or residential use, these window films provide a number of benefits. They are an excellent way to protect furniture and merchandise from fading as well as save you money on your energy bills by helping to regulate internal temperature.

When searching for the right sun reflective window film for your building, there are a few factors you should consider, like exterior appearance, affordability, and installation techniques.

Why You Need Window Film – Energy Efficiency

When it comes to windows, there are two qualities that define energy efficiency: solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) and thermal transmittance (U-factor). SHGC is a measure of how much of the sun’s heat is transmitted into a building through the windows while U-factor is a measure of how well the window insulates. For both measures, the lower the number, the better the window will be for energy efficiency in hot summer months. 

If your building doesn’t already have energy-efficient windows, heat rejection window films will help manage SHGC and U-factor to make the building more energy-efficient and provide greater indoor comfort. In this way, these window films will greatly affect your bottom line by reducing air conditioning usage when temperatures outside heat up. 

Why You Need Window Film – UV Blocking

An additional benefit of solar window films is their ability to block dangerous UV rays. Exposure to UV radiation from the sun can cause premature aging of the skin and damage to the DNA in skin cells which can lead to skin cancer. UV exposure can also break down the chemicals in furniture and fabric dyes, causing discoloration and fading.

The right type of reflective UV blocking window film can reject up to 99.9% of damaging UV rays which keep building occupants protected and helps to reduce distracting glare that may cause eye discomfort. This also means that furnishings and merchandise will be more resistant to fading, providing greater longevity to your investments.

What to Consider When Choosing Heat Reflective Window Film

Level of Protection

Sun reflective window films come in a variety of tint levels that provide varying degrees of protection from UV rays. Generally, if you want more protection from UV rays, the tint will be darker and more reflective, but there are also window films that provide very high UV defense while allowing plenty of light inside, like 3M’s Sun Control Prestige Exterior Series.

Exterior and Interior Appearance

Of course, aesthetics also play a role when choosing a window film. Solar reflective window films can be made from an array of materials that provide different effects for both the interior and exterior of a building. 

Some sun control films have darker tints while others are intended to provide the most visibility and highest transmission of visible light for those inside. As far as the exterior goes, some films have increased reflective capabilities to provide additional security and a variety of tones from silver to neutral that can be tailored to your aesthetic.

Installation Technique

Some heat reflective window films come with materials to install them yourself, while others are installed by professionals. There is generally less room for error when trained professionals are the ones installing the window films, so this is the recommended technique. Air bubbles and peeling films become an issue when these window films are applied by those without experience.

The Best Heat Reflective Window Film

If you’re searching for the best window films on the market, 3M’s UV protection films are affordable, non-metalized, multilayer optical films that reject up to 97% of the sun’s infrared light and up to 60% of the heat coming through your windows. 

What sets 3M’s films apart is the precision with which light waves are controlled as they pass through or reflect off of hundreds of layers of film. Compared to other films, 3M Window Films increase performance at a faster rate as the sun’s angle increases. That means greater protection and comfort when you need it the most.

These films are designed from the highest quality materials to be the best solution for your interiors. Whether you’re a homeowner or business owner, choosing 3M Sun Control Window Films gives you peace of mind, increasing your level of comfort while minimizing your utility bills and protecting your furnishings.

Professional Installation

Since 1992, Window Film Depot has built a reputation as the #1 3M Window Film installer in the nation. We help a number of customers, ranging from governmental offices to healthcare facilities, purchase and install UV protection window film. 

In addition to sun blocking window film to protect against UV rays, our company is able to combine additional window treatments to help improve the security, comfort, aesthetics, and overall efficiency of your indoor environment. We will help you realize the energy-saving benefits of UV protection film by pairing these features with safety and security window treatments as well as decorative glass films to achieve your desired aesthetic and benefits.

To get the highest quality window films, installed by America’s installation pros, contact Window Film Depot for more information or call (866) 933-3456 to learn more.

Window glazing, which is often referred to as just “glazing,” has evolved since the days when windows had just a single pane between you and the elements. 

Glazing is often confused with specific window film and adhesive treatments designed to reinforce glass windows and doors. However, the term window glazing refers to the glass itself that is installed within the frame.

So, What is Window Glazing?

When you hear the term “window glazing,” think of the actual glass panes within the entire window unit itself. Because single-pane windows are far less common due to energy inefficiencies, today’s windows typically come with “glazing systems,” which are designed to incorporate multiple panes of glass, gas fillings, and heat-sensitive coatings.

Below is a breakdown of the three most common types of glazed windows.

Single-Pane Windows

Windows with just one layer of glass are less common due to glazing advancements mentioned below. They are notorious for leaking energy from a house and offer little protection against the elements. Suppose you currently have single-pane windows but do not wish to upgrade or install an outer layer of storm windows. In that case, energy-saving window film can offer a cost-efficient alternative.

Double-Pane Insulated Glass

Most new windows sold today are made of double-pane glass, also known as double-glazed windows or simply “insulated glass.” Double-pain usually contains a layer of gas (either argon or krypton) sealed between the inner and outer panes. Because the gas is a poor thermal conductor, it helps prevent the passage of heat through the window. Double-pane windows also reduce the need for storm windows and provide greater durability for safety.

Triple-Pane Insulated Glass 

A level-up from double-pane are triple-pane windows, which are more energy-efficient and resilient. Triple-pane windows lock two layers of gas within the entire unit. They’re a high-performance option for frigid climates and can also help buffer sound from high-traffic locations next to highways and airports. Although the extra glass pane can increase the size and cost of the window sash, this type also delivers greater security against threats.

As the case with certain window film treatments, building owners can take advantage of federal tax credits and rebates by investing in insulated windows that help support energy efficiency.

Low-E Film and Heat Mirror Glass

Adding panes and gas-filled spacers are one solution to increase the efficiency of windows. Another way is with low-emissivity (low-E) film, an invisible layer of metallic oxide that reduces the amount of heat that passes through the glass. Virtually all new window units sold today offer this feature. While low-E films can add 10 to 15 percent to a window’s cost, studies have shown that they cut energy expenditures by between 25-30 percent over conventional insulated glass.

Most Low-E films deliver the best of both worlds when it comes to regulating a building’s temperature in regions with dramatic seasonality. Both a window insulation film and heat block window film, Low-E films are designed to retain cool air during the summer and heat during the winter so you can save on energy costs all year round. And when you choose 3M Low-E Window Film, you can leverage advanced window insulation performance, much like upgrading to a double-pane or triple-pane window to help lock in heat.

Another high-tech glazing system, called Heat Mirror, can match and even exceed triple-pane windows’ energy efficiency but without the extra weight. It’s made by suspending a sheet of low-E film between panes of insulated glass. Superglass, the most expensive glazing system on the market and one of the best insulators, suspends two layers of Heat Mirror between glass panes with gas-filled spacers.

In addition to temperature regulation and energy savings, the window glazing can also be used for safety, security, and privacy with switchable technology.

Security Glazing

Unlike storm windows that protect against weather, security glazing is specifically designed to resist human-forced damage and forced entry attempts. 

Security glazing differs from conventional safety glazing in that security options are engineered to withstand large blasts and aggressive forced entry attempts with various blunt force objects. One of the best examples of this technology is DefenseLite, an adaptable security overglaze that anchors onto existing windows, doors and, curtainwall glazing frames. 

A patented technology that provides an invisible layer of unbreachable security glass, DefenseLite overglaze is 250 times stronger than traditional glass. DefenseLite flexes, absorbs, and deflects energy away, thereby neutralizing threats and keeping the bad guys out. 

With episodes of smash-and-grab attempts, forced entry, and vandalism crimes on the rise, DefenseLite is an affordable security glass solution that combines the best of materials science with an efficient retrofit installation.

Electrochromic Glass & Switchable Windows

Electrochromic glass carries many different names, such as smart glass, switchable glass, and dynamic glass. Despite its many names, electrochromic glass is a unique glazing solution that turns windows from transparent to tinted on command.

Offering similar features as the switchable films we offer, electrochromic glass is an electronically-tintable glass that can be used for various types of indoor and outdoor windows, curtain walls, skylights, and facades.

A building’s occupants can directly control switchable glass windows made with electrochromic technology, providing on-demand privacy, glare and sun control, and even energy savings. It’s a smart solution for commercial offices, healthcare facilities, government buildings, classroom settings, retail storefronts, and museums. 

Which Window Glazing Is Right for You?

As you can see, window glazing comes in many different types to accommodate specific needs. Each type of glazing has its advantages and disadvantages. The type of glazing that will best meet your needs depends on your priorities (i.e., energy, safety, security, etc.), as well as your budget and the degree of efficiency you expect from your investment. 

To better understand your options when upgrading window treatments, contact our team for expert knowledge and product support. Or call (866) 933-3456 and request a free estimate.

Now more than ever, the demand for safety and security glazing for glass windows, doors, and storefronts is increasing throughout the U.S. With growing demand comes questions about which security glazing standards to use.

To answer some of these questions, Bill Lingnell of the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA) hosted a webinar titled, “Security Glazing for Storefront and Fenestration.” In the webinar, Lingnell gave an overview of many safety and security glazing standards and the testing methodology behind those standards. He also discussed different types of glazing solutions used for security purposes, including burglary and forced entry resistance, bullet resistance, hurricane resistance, and blast resistance.

Safety and Security Glazing Test Methods

The current test method for safety glazing is ANSI Z97.1, which requires the use of a 100-pound soft body impactor. This test method is segmented into two classifications. Class A, which requires 400-foot pounds to be dropped from a height of 48 inches, and Class B which requires 50-foot pounds be dropped from a height of 18 inches.

For burglar resistance, UL 972 is the primary glazing standard which is measured by an impact test that uses a 5-pound steel ball dropped at a height of 10 feet onto the glass. UL 972 testing requires multiple drops, including a high energy drop from 40 feet. Additionally, the materials tested are conditioned at various temperatures to simulate an indoor and outdoor environment. For materials to pass the UL 972 standard of criteria, there must be no penetration of the glass.

For door and window system framing, there are three standards for forced entry frame attack: ASTM F476 – hinged doors, ASTM F588 – windows, and ASTM F842 – sliding doors. These stands require the use of various tools and no glazing impact.

For hurricane impact, ASTM E2395 (Standard Specification for Voluntary Security Performance of Window and Door Assemblies with Glazing Impact) is used. This standard requires a glazing test impact in accordance with ASTM E1886 and missile specifications per ASTM E1996.

Security Glazing Standard Test Methods

In addition to the standards mentioned above, there are several additional glazing standards that can be used for forced entry security. These include:

• ASTM F1233, Standard Test Method for Security Glazing Materials and Systems – Impacts defined by various weapons, such as extinguishers, sledgehammers, chisels, and gasoline; ballistic assault and anthropomorphic assault. The pass criteria for body protection is no permissible opening of a block in dimensions of 9-inch by 8-inch by 5-inch. The pass criteria for contraband protection is no permissible opening of a 1/8-inch diameter rod. 
• ASTM F3038, Standard Test Method for Time Evaluation of Forced Entry-Resistant Systems – This method, which is designed to simulate a spontaneous mob attack, requires a full system test with no substitutions. Based on a defined set of tools and a predetermined number of aggressors, this test uses established time levels of forced entry (5 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, and user-defined minutes).
• ASTM F1915, Standard Test Methods for Glazing for Detention Facilities, – Impacts with forced egress, various types of weapons, and anthropomorphic assault.

Another interesting glass or fenestration test, ASTM F1642, requires shock tube or open arena testing. ASTM F1642 is designed to evaluate hazards of glazing against airblast loads, and such tests can be performed with or without a frame system. The rating and hazard level is contained in ASTM F2912.

In summary, blast glazing standard test methods include: 

• ASTM F1642, Standard Test Method for Glazing and Glazing Systems subject to Airblast Loadings
• ASTM F2248, Standard Practice for Specifying an Equivalent 3-Second Duration Design Loading for Blast Resistant Glazing Fabricated with Laminated Glass
• ASTM F2912-17, Standard Specification for Glazing and Glazing Systems Subject to Airblast Loadings

USGlassMag.com highlights additional standard test methods for safety and security glazing, as well as a webinar panel discussion that you find here.

Window Film Depot offers Forced Entry Glazing Solutions like DefenseLite™, as well as a retrofit ballistic panel system known as BulletShield™. For more information about these safety and security glazing solutions, contact us here or call (866) 933-3456.

In response to the coronavirus outbreak, see-through plexiglass barriers, countertop dividers, office partitions, and other COVID safety shields have become high-demand products to help prevent the spread and transmission of germs and viruses. Businesses, institutions, and facilities that are committed to flattening the curve have adopted these protective barriers to make physical interactions safer. 

With the increased demand for COVID safety products, many manufacturers are now offering custom plexiglass barriers and protective shield partitions for countertops, order windows, cash registers, and desks. But are all protective barriers created equal? 

In a rush to re-open amidst COVID-19, plexiglass barriers and other transparent shields have become essential integrations to keep patrons and employees safe. However, a new product line from DefenseLite has leveled-up the new normal for such protective barrier technologies. 

Introducing DefenseLite’s Architectural Series of Personal Protective Shields, a protective shield barrier that’s engineered for interior environments requiring protection from the spread of germs and disease.

DefenseLite’s Personal Protective Shields vs. Plexiglass Barriers

As the world makes an effort to return to some sense of normalcy in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, plexiglass barriers have become a vital layer of protection between patrons and customers. Countless grocery stores, pharmacies, and retailers have already installed transparent panels at checkout registers. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Plexiglass is popping up for other applications as well, including offices, schools, restaurants, restrooms, and other spaces that encourage social distancing.

While plexiglass has become a popular option, DefenseLite’s Personal Protective Shields offer a more advanced solution. Unlike plexiglass barriers, Personal Protective Shields are SMART, COVID safe barriers that are uniquely functional by incorporating cloaking, projection, and switchable technology options. These features turn mundane glass shields into dynamic, purposeful partitions that offer a number of capabilities. 

By combining our expertise in thin-film technology with proprietary lamination processes, DefenseLite’s Personal Protective Shields not only reduce the spread of germs and disease, but they also improve the performance and aesthetics of personal space by: 

• Providing instant privacy with the flick of a switch when integrated with liquid crystal smart glass film.
• Transforming instantly into a projectable surface with transparent display screen film.
• Cloaking computer screens from prying eyes with products like cloaking film technology.
• Providing more advanced protection against ballistic attacks and harmful threats with BulletShield™, a ballistic version of DefenseLite.

These are just a few examples of how DefenseLite Personal Protective Shields offer more advanced capabilities compared to plexiglass barriers. 

Protective Barriers for COVID-19 Safety and Beyond

DefenseLite’s Personal Protective Shields are available in either specialty glass or abrasion resistant polycarbonate versions and can be customized to meet any configuration. All types of businesses can add branding to new protection shields or leverage custom shapes, surface colors, and glass-film designs. Personal Protective Shields are available in any size or color. And like all DefenseLite products, trim packages are composed of a strong metal base and engineered anchoring system that’s “designer grade,” helping to enhance the look of any space. 

In today’s world, fixtures may require different specifications moving forward, but not at the expense of quality interior design. Continue to specify and build with intent and purpose. Include the functionality that only DefenseLite’s Architectural Series Personal Protective series brings to our new reality. Interested in learning more? Contact us for more information or call (866) 933-3456 and request a free estimate.