Fact or Fiction: The Truth About Window Film
Installing window film—whether in a new build or as part of a retrofit—can be a smart move. It helps reduce energy costs, limits solar glare, improves comfort, boosts safety, and can even enhance your building’s appearance.
Yet, with so much information (and misinformation) out there, it can be tricky for building owners and facility managers to separate fact from fiction. Here’s a clear guide to what window film can—and cannot—do.
What is Window Film?
Window film is a polyester product, usually made from Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET). It’s typically applied to the interior of glass windows in homes, commercial buildings, or vehicles. Modern films also feature a scratch-resistant coating for added durability.
There are many types of window films:
- Clear films: Offer shatter protection without affecting visibility.
- Tinted films: Reduce heat and glare with pigments, metals, or dyes.
- Decorative films: Mimic frosted or etched glass for aesthetic appeal.
Forget the old purple, bubbling films from the 1970s—today’s films are high-performing, durable, and technologically advanced.
Five Common Perceptions of Window Film
1. Window film doesn’t last long – Fiction
Modern commercial window films come with warranties up to 15 years. Depending on installation, glass type, and location, many last well beyond their warranty. Typical guarantees cover peeling, bubbling, rippling, cracking, and adhesive failure.
2. Window film can save significant energy – Fact
Window film can cut heating and cooling costs year-round. In summer, it reduces solar heat gain, lowering air conditioning bills while maintaining natural light. In winter, it keeps heat inside, reducing heating costs. For commercial buildings, this can lead to a payback period of less than two years and up to a 70% ROI, depending on building type and location.
3. Window film protects against storms – Fiction
Window film can:
- Help hold glass together to reduce shattering
- Minimise injury from broken glass
- Offer some protection against high winds
But it cannot:
- Prevent all glass breakage or frame damage
- Replace shutters or other approved storm protection
- Qualify a property for hurricane mitigation insurance discounts
Think of window film as a supplementary safety measure, not a standalone storm shield.
4. Window film reduces fading of furnishings – Fact
Window film blocks over 99% of harmful UV rays, a key cause of fading in furniture, carpets, and artwork. While it cannot stop fading entirely—visible light, heat, and chemicals in materials also contribute—it significantly slows the process.
5. Window film can deter intruders – Fact
Safety window films don’t make glass unbreakable, but they hold it together rather than allowing it to shatter. This can delay an intruder and even discourage attempts. However, the effectiveness also depends on the window frame, so results may vary.
The Bottom Line
For commercial and public buildings, window film is a cost-effective way to improve energy efficiency, occupant comfort, safety, and aesthetics. Understanding exactly what it can and cannot do is key to making the right decision for your property.
Investing in high-quality, professionally installed window film is a long-term improvement with tangible benefits for both your building and your bottom line.