Types of Window Films For Commercial Buildings, a Complete Guide

As a commercial building owner or manager, it’s important to regularly consider ways of improving your building’s energy efficiency, safety, and aesthetics to increase the satisfaction and safety of your tenants and users and reduce the environmental impact of your building. However, I’m well aware that only some people are familiar with commercial window films, a simple and effective solution that can help you achieve your goals.

In this comprehensive guide, I review the different types of window films available for commercial applications, explaining the benefits and uses of each. Whether you’re looking to reduce energy costs, improve safety measures, or simply enhance the visual appeal of your commercial space, commercial window films are definitively a cost-effective option you should consider.

Without further ado, let’s dive right in.  

1.0 Solar and UV Window Films

Commercial solar window films are designed to combat the sun’s harmful effects by reflecting and absorbing solar radiation while maintaining visibility. These types of window film are ideal for offices, retail businesses, and any other type of building that is subject to intense sunlight, resulting in property damage and high air-conditioning costs.

1.1 Benefits of Commercial Solar Window Films

Solar and UV window films bring many benefits to commercial building owners. Here are just a few of them:

• UV Protection: They block 99% of harmful UV rays and offer UV protection equivalent to SPF 285.
• Glare Reduction: They help decrease glare by up to 95%, making it easier to view screens and work comfortably.
• Heat Rejection: They reject up to 81% of solar energy to keep interiors cooler. This could potentially lead to cooling costs reduction by up to 30%.

1.2 Options in UV Window Films

Commercial UV window films come in various types to suit different needs and preferences:

• Clear UV films: These films provide UV protection without altering the appearance of the windows.
• Tinted films: Available in different shades, tinted window films offer both UV protection and privacy.
• Reflective films: Reflective UV films have a mirror-like finish on the exterior to maximize heat rejection.
• Ceramic films: Ceramic films are high-end options that offer superior heat rejection without being overly reflective.
• Decorative UV films: These types of window films combine UV protection with patterns or frosted looks for added aesthetics.
• Low emissivity (Low-E) window films: Low-E window films are designed for multi-climate regions, keeping the sun’s heat out in the summer and the heat in during winter.

1.3 Typical Installation of Solar and UV Window Films

UV window films are typically installed on the interior side of windows. This method offers superior protection against external elements, which significantly extends the film’s lifespan by shielding it from weather and physical damage. Interior installation is also more practical and safer, particularly for multi-story buildings. While exterior installation is possible for certain specialized films, interior application remains the preferred method for most commercial UV window film installations.

1.4 Solar Window Films in Real Life

It’s no secret that summers are getting hotter across Canada, which is why solar window films are perfect for multi-story office buildings looking to reduce energy consumption, improve comfort by minimizing heat and glare, and protect interiors from harmful UV rays. In a case study of the ASEM Tower in Seoul, South Korea, the installation of solar window film reduced room temperatures by 7° to 11°F (4° to 6°C). This not only improved comfort for occupants but also led to noticeable reductions in utility costs.

UV window films also have unique utility in the retail and food industries. Street-front retail stores, such as clothing and furniture stores, can use window films to protect their merchandise from fading and sun damage without compromising natural light, while grocery stores, restaurants, and delis can better control indoor temperatures and preserve perishable items through heat rejection.

All in all, it’s fair to say that UV window films provide a practical and effective solution that is worth exploring for many commercial spaces.

2.0 Commercial Safety and Security Window Films

Security and safety window films are patented films specially designed to reinforce windows, making them more resistant to breakage and preventing shards from scattering in the event of impact. These types of window films are ideal for commercial properties, especially in areas with security concerns or high risk of natural disasters.

They’re particularly useful for:

• Commercial buildings with large glass surfaces
• Schools and other public institutions
• Commercial buildings located in areas prone to break-ins or severe weather
• Some commercial spaces in the food industry
• Manufacturing facilities in the food and pharmaceutical industries

According to Toronto police statistics for 2023, out of the 7,675 break-ins reported that year, 3,111 were committed on commercial properties, an increase of 20% over the previous year. Of these, only 24.8% were solved. Investing in security films helps deter potential intruders by delaying their entry into your building.

2.1 Benefits of Security Window Films

Contrary to popular belief, anti-shatter window films offer more than one advantage. Let’s take a look at them.

• Shatter Resistance: Safety window films hold shattered glass in place, reducing the risk of injury from flying glass.
• Burglary Deterrent: They make forced entry more difficult, deterring potential intruders.
• Storm Protection: They provide an extra layer of protection against flying debris during severe weather.
• Safety Compliance: They help buildings meet safety glazing requirements in certain areas.
• Post-incident Rescue and Cleanup: They secure broken glass to facilitate the rescue and cleanup process.
• UV Protection: Security window films protect people and property by blocking 99% of damaging UV rays.

2.2 Options for Security Window Films

Security films come in various thicknesses, typically ranging from 4 mil to 15 mil. The thicker the film, the more protection it offers. Like UV window films, security window films also come in clear and reflective options, the latter providing greater privacy.

Other options such as glare reduction and heat rejection to improve interior comfort can also be found in this category of commercial window films.

2.3 Typical Installation of Shatter-Proof Window Films

Security and safety window films are typically installed on the interior side of windows and glass doors. This interior installation protects the film from external damage and tampering. For high-security areas, we often recommend combining security films with a special attachment system that secures the film to the window frame, creating a robust protective envelope against forced entry. Professional installation is strongly recommended for optimal performance and to ensure proper integration with existing security systems.

2.4 Security Window Films in Real Life

Security window films are particularly useful for commercial buildings, such as retail stores, which are more prone to smash-and-grab robberies, and other businesses located in low-traffic areas, making them more vulnerable to break-ins and vandalism, like cannabis growers.

Food manufacturers and restaurants also appreciate the shatter resistance of window safety films. In the event of a window breakage, the film holds the glass shards in place, thus protecting food, employees, and customers.

Finally, public and government buildings such as courthouses, museums, and schools are also good examples of buildings that can benefit from the exceptional properties of security window films.

3.0 Decorative & Privacy Window Films

Decorative window films are other types of window films that offer a cost-effective way to enhance the aesthetics of any commercial space while providing privacy and light control. These versatile films can transform plain glass into interesting decorative elements and even works of art.

3.1 Benefits of Decorative Window Films

Depending on the decorative window film you select, you can benefit from a number of advantages:

• Privacy Enhancement: Decorative window films can create privacy without sacrificing natural light.
• Aesthetic Improvement: They transform plain glass into custom designs.
• Light Diffusion: Decorative films soften harsh sunlight and reduce glare.
• Cost-Effective Alternative: They are more affordable than installing new windows or permanent privacy solutions.
• Versatility: Easily removable, they facilitate updates of decor or branding.
• Visibility: They improve the visibility of glass doors and partitions.

3.2 Options in Decorative Window Films

The sky is almost the limit when it comes to decorative window and glass films. The multiple options available allow designers and architects to add a little creativity to sometimes aseptic or more conventional spaces.

Here are a few options available:

• Frosted: Frosted window films provide a translucent, etched glass appearance for privacy and light diffusion. Different levels of opacity, as well as gradient options and computer-cut designs, are available.
• Patterned: Patterned decorative films feature various designs from simple geometrics to complex artwork.
• Coloured: Coloured window films add a pop of color to glass surfaces.
• Safety: Decorative films with a safety component protect against the risk of accidental window shattering by trapping glass shards.
• Solar: Decorative window films with solar control protect against damaging UV rays.

3.3 Typical Installation of Decorative Window Films

Decorative window films are typically installed on the interior side of windows, glass partitions, or doors. This interior application protects the film from external damage and simplifies maintenance.

3.4 Applications of Decorative Window Films

Decorative window films allow numerous property owners and their tenants to create interesting environments. These films can be used to:

• Enhance the privacy of offices and meeting spaces in large offices.
• Provide signage to guide visitors to different departments.
• Create stunning visual interest in predominantly glazed, high-ceiling spaces such as atriums, cafeterias, hotel and conference center lobbies, airport waiting areas, museum entrances, etc.
• Improve the ambiance of waiting rooms in hospitals and medical clinics.
• Temporarily transform store windows with custom-branded designs, promotions, or seasonal decors.
• Enhance guest privacy in ground-floor rooms or public-facing areas in the hospitality industry.

4.0. Anti-Graffiti Window Films

Anti-graffiti window films are designed to protect glass and other smooth surfaces from vandalism, etching, and permanent markings. These types of window films provide a sacrificial layer that can be easily removed and replaced if vandalized, saving significant time and money on glass replacement.

4.1 Benefits of Anti-Graffiti Window Films

Seeing your new commercial space fall victim to vandalism is certainly frustrating, not only because your property has been damaged but also because of what it will cost you to repair the vandalized windows or fixtures and the mark it can leave on your brand. You can limit the damage by using anti-graffiti window films, which offer the following advantages:

• Surface Protection: Anti-graffiti window films shield glass and smooth surfaces from paint, permanent markers, and etching tools.
• Easy Removal: These films allow for quick and easy removal of graffiti without damaging the underlying surface.
• Cost Savings: They reduce long-term maintenance costs associated with graffiti removal and glass replacement.
• Deterrent Effect: Graffiti-resistant films discourage repeated vandalism attempts.
• Aesthetic Preservation: Anti-vandalism films help maintain the original appearance of buildings and structures.

4.2 Options in Anti-Graffiti Window Films

Anti-graffiti window films are clear and come in single-layer or multi-layer options. Multi-layer options allow for multiple peel-away layers to remove graffiti without replacing the entire film.

4.3 Typical Installation of Anti-Graffiti Window Films

When it comes to installing anti-graffiti window films, there are no set rules. These films are suitable for both exterior and interior applications. Since their purpose is to protect surfaces, they are installed on the surfaces most susceptible to vandalism.

4.4 Applications of Anti-Graffiti Window Films

Along with security and safety window films, anti-graffiti window films offer effective protection against vandalism for many types of businesses. Here are just a few examples:

• Anti-graffiti window films are used in public transportation companies to protect windows, smooth metal surfaces from damage, advertising signage, etc.
• Shopping malls protect elevator and escalator surfaces, entrance windows, and restroom mirrors and walls from vandalism with anti-graffiti window films.
• Schools and public institutions can apply anti-graffiti films to restroom walls, mirrors, and other stainless steel surfaces for added protection.

5.0 Bird Strike Window Films

Bird strike window films, also called bird safety and bird deterrent window films, are specialized patterned window treatments designed to prevent birds from colliding with glass surfaces by making them more visible to them. They are an effective solution for reducing the number of deaths and injuries caused by collisions between birds and windows, especially for buildings located in migratory corridors.

Bird deterrent window films are particularly useful for older commercial buildings that were built before bird protection regulations or awareness became a concern.

5.1 Benefits of Bird Strike Window Films

Bird strike window films offer several advantages for commercial building owners and wildlife conservation:

• Bird Safety: They significantly reduce bird collisions by making windows visible to birds.
• Legal compliance: Bird safe window films help buildings comply with bird-friendly building legislation in some jurisdictions, such as Toronto. In other cities like Calgary, Vancouver, and Victoria, to name just a few, they are an integral part of bird-friendly design guidelines.
• Cost-Effective: They’re more affordable than replacing windows with bird-friendly glass.
• Aesthetic Preservation: They maintain the building’s appearance and don’t obstruct views for occupants.
• Energy Efficiency: Some bird strike films also offer UV protection and heat rejection properties.

5.2 Options in Bird Strike Window Films

Commercial bird deterrent window films come in various predefined patterns that have proven effective in preventing bird collisions with windows. However, any decorative window film whose pattern or design meets the criteria set out in the CSA A460 Bird-friendly building design standard can also be an effective solution.

There are also types of window films, such as Bird Divert^TM from Feather Friendly, which incorporate markers that are optically visible to birds but invisible to humans.

5.3 Typical Installation of Bird Strike Window Films

It has been proven that bird strike films are most effective when installed on the exterior surface of the window. This placement is crucial as it creates a visual barrier that birds can detect before reaching the glass.

5.4 Bird Strike Window Film in Real Life

Anti-collision window films have proven effective in various settings. These films are particularly valuable for buildings located close to migration routes, in urban areas with high bird populations, or for those with large glass facades. They are currently used successfully all across the world in office buildings, residential high-rises, nature and tourism centers, sports and recreational centers, universities, research facilities, and museums.

Learn more about bird-deterrent window films

Conclusion

Commercial window films offer a versatile, cost-effective solution for building owners and managers seeking to enhance their properties. From solar and UV protection to security, decorative elements, anti-graffiti measures, and bird safety, these types of window films address a wide range of needs. They improve energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and aesthetics while providing essential safety features.

As cities adopt stricter building codes and sustainability becomes increasingly important, window films present an accessible way to upgrade existing structures. By investing in the right window film solutions, commercial property owners can significantly improve their buildings’ performance, appearance, and environmental impact, making them more attractive to tenants and visitors alike.

From UV window films to security window films, Access Protection is committed to providing top-quality window film solutions across Canada. Our team of experts is ready to help you choose the right film for your needs and ensure a flawless installation. Whether you’re looking to reduce energy costs in a large office building, enhance security in a retail environment, or add a touch of style to your building, we have the expertise and products to meet your needs.

Contact us for a consultation and see how we can enhance your space with the perfect window film solution.

About the Author Robert Brideau is the president and owner of Access Protection, a company specializing in the sales and installation of various window films for both commercial and residential applications across Canada. Robert has more than 15 years of expertise in window film specifications, from solar and decorative to security and bird-strike prevention window films.