If you’re in the market for window tint film for your home
or workplace, there’s plenty to consider. Window film products and installation
processes often utilise unique terminology that may be confusing to those
outside the industry. For this reason, we’ve compiled a collection of common
terms to look out for while you shop for window films.
Curing time refers to the period it takes for the window tint
film
to fully dry and adhere to the glass surface after installation.
During this time, the adhesive in the film undergoes a chemical reaction,
bonding the film to the glass. The curing time can vary depending on factors
such as the type of film, environmental conditions, and the manufacturer's
instructions.
Emissivity is a measure of how efficiently a material emits
thermal radiation. In the context of window film, emissivity refers to the
ability of the film to reflect or absorb heat from the sun. A lower emissivity
value indicates that the film reflects a higher percentage of heat, reducing
the amount of heat that enters through the windows. This can help keep the
interior of a building cooler and reduce the load on air conditioning systems.
Glare reduction refers to the ability of window tint film to
reduce excessive brightness or glare caused by direct sunlight or artificial
light sources. Window films can help filter out the harsh glare, making the
interior space more comfortable and improving visibility. This is particularly
beneficial in areas with high sun exposure or where glare can interfere with
activities such as watching television or working on a computer.
Glazing refers to the process of installing glass in windows
or doors. Window film can be applied to the glazing to provide various benefits
such as heat reduction, UV protection, and privacy.
Infrared radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation
that is not visible to the human eye but can be felt as heat. It is part of the
solar energy spectrum and contributes to the warming of objects and spaces.
Window tint film can block or reduce the amount of infrared radiation that
enters through the windows, helping to keep the interior cooler and reduce the
need for excessive air conditioning.
Infrared rejection refers to the ability of window film to
block or reduce the amount of infrared radiation that passes through the glass.
A higher infrared rejection value indicates that the film is more effective at
blocking infrared heat, resulting in better heat reduction and energy efficiency.
Low-emissivity, often referred to as Low-E, is a type of
window tint film that has a low emissivity rating. This means that it reflects
a higher percentage of heat and reduces heat transfer through the glass. Low-E
window film is designed to improve energy efficiency by keeping heat out during
hot weather and retaining heat indoors during colder weather.
Mil is a unit of measurement used to describe the thickness
of window film. It represents one-thousandth of an inch. The mil measurement is
commonly used in the window film industry to indicate the thickness and
durability of the film. A higher mil value indicates a thicker film that may
offer increased strength and resistance to tearing or damage.
Ply refers to the number of layers in the window tint
film. Window films can be single-ply or multi-ply, with multiple layers of film
laminated together. A higher ply count generally indicates a thicker film that
may provide enhanced durability, heat reduction, and privacy. However, it is
important to consider other factors such as the quality of the film and the
manufacturer's specifications when choosing the right window tint for a
specific application.
The ratio of the amount of total solar energy absorbed by a
glazing system to the amount of total solar energy falling on the glazing
system. It is that portion of total solar energy neither transmitted nor
reflected. The formula for calculating solar absorptance is: Solar absorption =
1.00 - (solar transmittance) - (solar reflectance)
Solar energy refers to the energy from the sun, including
visible light, ultraviolet (UV) light, and infrared (IR) radiation. Window film
interacts with solar energy by reflecting, absorbing, or transmitting different
portions of the solar spectrum. By controlling the amount of solar energy that
enters through the windows, window tint film
can help regulate indoor temperatures, reduce UV exposure, and enhance energy
efficiency.
Window tint film can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays from
the sun, protecting patients and staff from potential health risks associated
with prolonged sun exposure, particularly when they are confined to the
hospital. It also reduces the amount of heat that enters through the windows,
creating a more comfortable environment for patients.
Special security films can also be used to protect lives and
property from shattered glass in the case of a break-in.
Healthcare centres and hospitals might also benefit from frosted window films
for even greater patient privacy.
Solar transmittance refers to the ability of window film to
allow solar energy to pass through. It represents the percentage of solar
energy that is transmitted through the film and enters the building. The solar
transmittance of window film can vary depending on factors such as the type of
film, its darkness level, and the specific wavelengths of solar energy.
Total Solar Energy Rejected (TSER) refers to the percentage
of total solar energy (heat) that is blocked or rejected by the window film
and glass system. A higher TSER value indicates that the window film is more
effective at blocking solar heat.
Ultraviolet (UV) light is a type of electromagnetic
radiation that is not visible to the human eye. It is responsible for causing
sunburn, fading of furniture and fabrics, and can be harmful to the skin.
Window film can help block a significant portion of UV rays, reducing
UV-related damage and protecting the interior of a building.
Visible light reflectance refers to the ability of window
film to reflect visible light. It represents the percentage of visible light
that is reflected by the film. A higher visible light reflectance value means
that the film reflects more visible light, resulting in a brighter appearance.
Visible light transmittance (VLT) refers to the percentage
of visible light that is allowed to pass through the window film. A higher VLT
value means that more visible light is transmitted through the film, resulting
in a brighter interior. Conversely, a lower VLT value means that less visible
light is transmitted, resulting in a darker interior.
