FAQ
Glass Film FAQs
Film applied to glass according to manufacturer's specifications can never be the sole cause of thermal breakage. Only if the glass is not manufactured and/or installed to established industry standards can window film be a contributing factor. To reinforce this point, some window film solution providers even offer a five-year thermal breakage warranty that includes glass and film replacement.
Most higher quality window films are protected by ultraviolet inhibitors, guaranteeing that the films will not discolour over time. 10-year manufacturer's material and labour warranties usually back up these claims.
The higher quality polyester window films offer an abrasive coating and adhesion technology that ensures that the specific requirements related to performance and appearance can be met over the long term (20 years or more). After this time, the film can easily be removed and replaced with a new film. The 3M films are compatible with standard ammonia-based cleaning solutions and procedures.
Some of the newer products, such as 3M Night Vision Films, not only offer the required solar protection but also allow clearer viewing from the inside at night.
Glass breaks when stressed. There are five types of stress that may cause glass breakage:
- Thermal Stress - from absorption of solar radiation.
- Tensile Stress - from the weight of the glass itself.
- Mechanical Flexing Stress - from wind.
- Impact Stress - from flying objects, (hail, baseballs).
- Twisting Stress - from building or window frame sagging or settling.
The first type, thermal stress, is the only one which film may affect. The use of window films will increase the thermal stress on sunlit glass. However, there are also other factors which will increase thermal stress such as: partial shading of windows from overhangs, tightly fitting drapes or blinds, signs or decals on windows, heating and cooling vents directed at glass. In addition, different types of glass (annealed versus tempered, clear versus tinted) have different solar absorption rates and will withstand different degrees of thermal stress.
3M DI-NOC Solutions FAQs
3M DI-NOC Architectural Finishes are a self-adhesive and flexible laminate film which is ideal for resurfacing and refurbishing hard, smooth surfaces. The product installs quickly and produces maximum results when transforming existing surfaces. It can be used to cover reception areas, doors, elevators, hallways, and more. 3M DI-NOC Architectural Finishes' ability to mold around complex shapes means it can be used for curved and rounded profiles.
3M™ DI-NOC™ Architectural Finishes have a number of key advantages:
- More pattern options: Unlimited creative flexibility and architectural freedom.
- Clean and quick to install: Minimal downtime means your facilities are back up and running quickly.
- Preserves your existing substrates: Costs are minimized when you don’t have to replace surfaces but can repurpose them.
- Good for your environmental policy: Fittings and fixtures don't end up in landfill sites and you don't incur disposal costs because you have re-used them in your new decor.
3M DI-NOC Architectural Finishes have 21 category product ranges including: wood grains, fine woods, metallic finishes, solid colours, carbon fiber, marble, leathers, sandstone, and many more exciting finishes.
3M DI-NOC Architectural Finishes are resistant to abrasion, staining, chemicals, and they comply with flammability standards for buildings. In addition, the solid colour series has an antibacterial property making it an ideal choice for healthcare facilities, dental offices, hospitals, and public schools.