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.
