Window Treatments or Window Film? Here's What You Should Know

Many building managers are taking advantage of less occupied buildings due to COVID to redesign their office layouts. If you’re thinking about making updates and want an alternative to window treatments, window film can be an excellent multi-benefit option for your space.

Exterior windows connect building occupants to the outside world. They provide expansive views and provide essential natural light that affects everything from mood to productivity. They make spaces feel open and airy, rather than dark and closed in.

However, windows have downsides, too. Clear windows lack privacy and sometimes permit too much bright sunlight. Windows can be major sources of energy inefficiencies trying to combat temperature regularities. In addition to being susceptible to sun damage, windows are also vulnerable entry points for intruders and thieves.

Are Window Treatments the Solution?

Window treatments include window coverings like blinds, shades, drapes, and shutters. All these window treatments can efficiently cover windows, add privacy, and block out light. Window treatments come in many styles, patterns, and colors that can improve the appearance of commercial spaces.

Blinds are the most flexible option for controlling light because they’re easy to partially or fully open and close and can also be raised and lowered. However, blinds are not always aesthetically pleasing to the eye. When window treatments like blinds and curtains are drawn closed, they totally block out the view. When they are open, there’s light — although, sometimes too much of it — and then lack of privacy becomes an issue again.

Another downside to all of these window coverings is the cleaning and maintenance, in addition to regular window cleaning. Drapes have to be steamed and rehung, while shutters have to be painted and cleaned, and blinds have to be dusted and sanitized.

Alternative Solution: 3M Window Film

Window film is the only solution that addresses each of the challenges posed by windows mentioned earlier, without the disadvantages of window treatments. Here’s a brief overview of how window film addresses each issue:

Enhance Privacy

3M Decorative Glass Finishes provide an unobstructed view out while providing daytime privacy. Decorative films come in unlimited styles while providing day and night time privacy while adding a decorative appeal.

Sun Control

3M Sun Control Window Film blocks out 99% of the sun’s UV rays, reducing damage to floors, paintings, and furniture. Window film reflects the sun to keep buildings cooler and occupants more comfortable. During cold temperatures, window film contributes to interior comfort by serving as a layer of insulation that retains heat. It also is very effective at reducing glare. Not to mention, there’s nothing to open or close, clean, or maintain.

Aesthetics

Decorative window film can beautify windows with a variety of color and pattern choices. The film can even mimic the look of expensive etched, decorative or stained glass but at a fraction of the cost. Window films can be used as an innovative solution to replacing or updating clear glass

Energy Loss

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has identified window film as a top-tier technology for energy conservation with a fast payback of your investment in as little as three years. Meanwhile, the energy savings are immediate. The typical building owner can expect to save approximately $1-2 per square foot of film installed, or as much as $19 kWh per square foot of glass, according to the DOE

Durable, Maintenance-Free

With professional installation, 3M Window Film is very durable and backed by lengthy warranties. The film is virtually maintenance-free as well, requiring no extra care aside from routine window washing.