Earlier, we wrote a blog post about choosing the right kind of window film for your business or home. Our discussion delved into the advantages of three different types of films: insulating films, glare reducing films and privacy films. Making an informed choice in window films also requires knowledge of certain key terms.
In the following, we define these terms, explaining why they’re important:
Total Solar Transmission. The International Window Film Association defines this as the ratio of “the amount of total solar energy in the full solar wavelength range (300-2,100 nanometers) that is allowed to pass through a glazing system to the amount of total solar energy falling on that glazing system.” RealEstate.com adds that buildings with light transmission measurements around 50 percent adequately balance glare reduction with light visibility.
Visible Light Transmittance. Visible light transmittance refers to the degree to which the window film reflects light. Typically films with higher scores have a shinier appearance.
Shading Coefficient. This refers to the window’s “net benefit” in lowering heat from the sun and outside sources. Films with a shading coefficient of .50 or below are optimal, explains RealEstate.com.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The industry is increasingly moving away from shading coefficients to solar heat gain coefficients. SHGC refers to the level of solar radiation as heat gain that enters the building through the window system. Represented by a number from 0 to 1, a low coefficient corresponds to low heat gain.
Window films can benefit a range of clients, from commercial businesses to colleges and home owners. As an authorized 3m window film dealer, Michigan Glass can answer all of your questions about window films and their installation process. Explore our website, and contact us at 248-364-6667, to learn more about your decorative and commercial window film options.