Understanding Window Film Ratings: Everything You Need To Know

Are you considering installing window film in your home or office? Window film is a cost-effective way to reduce energy costs, protect your furnishings, and increase privacy. However, with so many different types of window film available, it can be challenging to determine which one is right for your needs. One way to choose the best window film is by understanding its ratings. In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about window film ratings.

What Are Window Film Ratings?

Window film ratings are a set of standards created by independent organizations to measure the performance of window films. These ratings include a variety of factors, such as:

• Solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC)
• U-factor
• Visible light transmission (VLT)
• UV rejection
• Glare reduction
• Impact resistance

By understanding these ratings, you can choose a window film that meets your specific needs and preferences.

What Is Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)?

The solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) measures how much solar heat is transmitted through a window film. This rating ranges from 0 to 1, with lower numbers indicating better performance. A lower SHGC means that the window film is better at blocking solar heat, which can reduce energy costs by keeping your home or office cooler in the summer.

For example, if you live in a hot climate, you may want to choose a window film with a lower SHGC to reduce energy costs. On the other hand, if you live in a cooler climate, you may want a window film with a higher SHGC to allow more solar heat into your home or office.

What Is U-Factor?

The U-factor measures how well a window film insulates against heat transfer. This rating ranges from 0.20 to 1.20, with lower numbers indicating better performance. A lower U-factor means that the window film is better at insulating against heat transfer, which can reduce energy costs by keeping your home or office warmer in the winter.

For example, if you live in a cold climate, you may want to choose a window film with a lower U-factor to reduce energy costs. On the other hand, if you live in a hot climate, you may want a window film with a higher U-factor to allow more heat to escape your home or office.

What Is Visible Light Transmission (VLT)?

The visible light transmission (VLT) measures how much visible light is transmitted through a window film. This rating ranges from 0 to 100, with higher numbers indicating better performance. A higher VLT means that the window film allows more visible light into your home or office.

For example, if you want a window film that lets in more natural light, you may want to choose a film with a higher VLT. On the other hand, if you want a film that provides more privacy, you may want a film with a lower VLT.

What Is UV Rejection?

UV rejection measures how well a window film blocks UV radiation from the sun. This rating ranges from 0 to 100, with higher numbers indicating better performance. UV radiation can cause fading and damage to your furnishings, so choosing a window film with high UV rejection can protect your investment.

What Is Glare Reduction?

Glare reduction measures how well a window film reduces glare from the sun. This rating ranges from 0 to 100, with higher numbers indicating better performance. Glare can be a nuisance in homes and offices, especially in rooms with computer screens or televisions. Choosing a window film with high glare reduction can make your environment more comfortable.

What Is Impact Resistance?

Impact resistance measures how well a window film holds up against impact from objects like rocks or baseballs. This rating ranges from 0 to 5, with higher numbers indicating better performance. Window films with higher impact resistance can protect your windows from damage and improve safety in case of breakage.

Conclusion

Now that you understand the different window film ratings, you can make an informed decision about which film is right for your needs. Consider the climate you live in, your energy costs, your privacy preferences, and your desire for protection against UV rays, glare, and impact. By choosing the right window film, you can improve the comfort and efficiency of your home or office.

FAQs

What is the best window film for reducing energy costs?

The best window film for reducing energy costs depends on the climate you live in. If you live in a hot climate, choose a window film with a low SHGC to block solar heat. If you live in a cold climate, choose a window film with a low U-factor to insulate against heat transfer.

Can window film protect against UV radiation?

Yes, window film can protect against UV radiation. Look for a film with high UV rejection to protect your furnishings and improve your health.

What is the difference between VLT and SHGC?

VLT measures how much visible light is transmitted through a window film, while SHGC measures how much solar heat is transmitted through a window film.

Is window film impact resistant?

Some window films are impact resistant. Look for a film with a high impact resistance rating if you want to protect your windows from damage.