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Response by Darrell Smith, Executive Director, International Window Film Association
When trying to save energy on cooling bills in the hot summer months, the key is to reduce solar
heat gain and window film is extremely effective at doing this even on a low-e window.
There are multiple generations of low-e coatings and they are not all the same. The original
purpose of low-e windows was to retain room heat and older low-e windows did little to stop solar
heat gain. Depending on the low-e window to which it is applied, film can still reduce the solar
heat gain far more than many low-e windows and therefore reduce cooling costs.
Most importantly, window film does not negate the low-e coating ability to insulate against heat
loss. In many cases, window film can even improve this benefit (most solar control window film is
more “low-e” than glass.)
Window films offer consumers the ability to further customize their windows to solve the many
problems sunlight creates, and unlike blind, curtains or shutters, window film does not block the
enjoyment of looking outside or having natural light in the home.
In addition window film helps;
· Reduce the amount of UV light coming through to less than 1%, minimizing a
primary cause of fading
· Reduce excessive amounts of sunlight, providing glare control for computers,
televisions and reading areas
· Improve daytime privacy, if darkening or reflecting films are chosen
Window films are purposely made to remain completely adhered to the glass when installed; a
professional dealer, however, can safely remove the films in the event it should become
necessary. Warranties against glass breakage or seal failure due to the installation of window
films are available from almost all manufacturers; a qualified window film dealer can recommend
the right film for a particular window and the individual needs of a consumer.
For more information on window film and its uses and benefits visit the International Window Film
Association at www.iwfa.com or email admin@iwfa.com.