When it comes to applying window film to a residential or commercial windows, knowing what type of glass you’re working with is important to ensure proper film to glass compatibility.
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In this article, we’ll go over what you need to know when applying window tint to single, dual, and triple pane windows and as well as annealed glass, heat-strengthened glass, and tempered glass.
Solar window films work in two ways; absorbing the solar energy and / or reflecting it. The light and heat is coming at the window and it has to go somewhere so the two options are to absorb the solar energy or to reflective, or both.
Reflective films are also known as “metallized” window films. The metal content make reflective window films exceptional at rejecting heat and filtering out glare – much more so than non-metalized alternatives.
Because metallized films work by reflecting the solar energy, they typically have a very low solar absorption, making them safe to apply to most types of glass. An example of an exception can be laminated glass or glass with metal wiring between the panes. In that case, a dark reflective film installed from the interior could cause thermal stress to the glass and seals.
When applying a non-metallized window film on a home or business, it is especially important to note the type of glass the window film is being applied. The reason is a film that does not contain metal works by absorbing the solar energy in the film and glass.
Depending on the glass strength and whether it be a single, dual, or triple pane window will affect compatibility with some window films. Too much solar absorption can cause window seals to prematurely fail and the possibility of the window cracking. That is why its always important to identify what type of glass you’re working with and refer to your window film manufacturer’s “Film to Glass Compatibility Chart”
Flat glass window film manufacturers provide a film to glass compatibility chart for quick reference as to what film can go on what glass. If ever uncertain, it is always advised to contact the film manufacturer and get their approval on the application. For the film warranty to be valid, the application must meet manufacturers specifications. Other than this film on that glass, other factors can also come into play like the size of the pane of the glass, its directional exposure, and even an overhang. When it doubt, as the film manufacturer.
Residential and commercial window tinting projects involve many details that go beyond what is typically experiences with automotive window tinting.
Residential and commercial window tinting, also known as flat glass window tinting, often starts with an in person visit to the project site to measure the glass, inspect the project, and provide samples to the customer.
Window Tint Software by Tint Wiz – Flat Glass Quoting, Scheduling, Pricing and MoreIt is absolutely essential to be organized and efficient so you are able to accurately and quickly provide a clear detailed quote to the customer right there on the spot. Providing the flat glass window film quote to the customer during the consultation gives the customer a better experience since they can review it with the options fresh on their mind and you there to answer any questions.
Whether they accept the quote there on the spot or a few days later, using Tint Wiz window tint software will allow you do view the details of the job anytime, from anywhere which means when your or your installer goes to the job, they will know exactly what film goes where, what the windows look like, the direction their facing, etc making for an efficient installation and a great experience for your team and your customer.
Tint Wiz comes with a 30 day completely free and unlimited trial which means you can download the app and use Tint Wiz with absolutely no cost or obligation.
Annealed Glass
Annealed Glass, sometimes called standard glass is a softer glass that has been thermally treated and then slowly cooled to relieve any internal stresses. Annealed glass tends to break into longer, jagged shards which can cause significant injury. It is generally used when strength or safety are not concerns but cost is.
Heat-Strengthened Glass
With Heat-Strengthened Glass, the cooling process is slower, which means the compression strength is lower. In the end, heat-strengthened glass is approximately twice as strong as annealed, or untreated, glass.
The industry standard specification requirements for heat-treated or tempered glasses are ASTM C1048. For heat-strengthened glass, the requirement is a surface compression of 3,500 to 7,500 psi with no requirement for edge compression. Fully tempered glass will have either a minimum surface compression of 69 MPa (10,000 psi), or an edge compression of not less than 67 MPa (9,700 psi).
Tempered Glass
Tempered Glass or toughened glass is manufactured through a process of extreme heating and rapid cooling, tempered glass is much harder and stronger than normal glass. Another benefit of tempered glass is the ability to stand up to moderate heat (470°F).
With tempered glass, the cooling process is accelerated to create higher surface compression (the dimension of force or energy per unit area) and/or edge compression in the glass. It is the air-quench temperature, volume and other variables that create a surface compression of at least 10,000 pounds per square inch (psi). This is the process that makes the glass four to five times stronger and safer than annealed or untreated glass. As a result, tempered glass is less likely to experience a thermal break.
Single Pane Window
This type of glass is exactly as the name implies: a singular panel of glass that is clear. Single pane, clear glass has the highest rate of heat loss or heat gain (depending on the local climate), while permitting the highest daylight transmission.
Dual Pane Windows
Double pane glass is the most common type of glass used in today’s residential and commercial windows. It is constructed with two pieces of glass spaced apart and sealed to be airtight, forming a single-glazed unit. Also known as an insulating glass unit, double pane glass is designed to increase a window’s thermal performance by reducing the heat gain or loss. According to the Efficient Windows Collaborative, compared to single glazing, double-pane glass cuts heat loss in half due to the insulating air space between the glass layers. In addition to reducing the heat flow, a double-glazed unit with clear glass will allow the transmission of high visible light and high solar heat gain.
Triple Pane Windows
Triple Pane Windows aren’t as common as double-pane windows in most parts of the US. The main difference between double- and triple-pane windows is that triple-pane windows have three panes of glass instead of two.
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A three-pane design means the window provides more insulation. If you live in an area with very cold winters, triple-pane windows can help minimize heat lost through your windows when it’s chilly outside.
Triple-pane windows is also a great option for noisy areas. That extra pane of glass makes a big difference in sound reduction. The two spaces between the three panes of glass are usually filled with krypton gas.
Other Glass Types
New advancements in technology and energy efficiency bring additional solutions to residential and commercial properties. Other glass types you may run into are Tinted Single Pane, Tinted Dual Pan, Low-E Dual Pane Surface 2, Low-E Dual Pane Surface 3, Low-E2 Both Surfaces, Low-E Dual Pane Surface 4, Clear Single Pane Laminated, Clear Dual Pane Laminated, Tinted Single Pane Laminated, Tinted Dual Pane Laminated, Heat Mirror
Is window film compatible with dual pane windows?
Yes, there are window films available that are compatible with dual pane windows. It is important to check the film to glass compatibility chart and make sure that the film that you plan to use is compatible with the window’s glass.
Can you use window film on double glazed windows?
Yes, double glazed windows is another term for dual pane windows, so just like dual pane windows, there is absolutely many window films that are compatible with double glazed windows but its important to always refer to the manufacturer specs to make sure it is compatible.
Can you put reflective film on dual pane windows?
Most reflective films will be compatible on most dual pane windows but the key work being most. There are always exceptions so it is important to understand the specs of the window film and type of windows and when it doubt refer to the manufacturer of the film to confirm compatibility.
Can you put window film on tempered glass?
Yes, tempered glass is the strongest of the glass types which makes it a great film for window film.
Does window film cause windows to crack?
It is possible for window film to crack glass, though it is not likely or common. If applying a compatible window film to the glass, it is unlikely for glass to crack. The most likely way to crack glass is to install a film with too high absorption. Dark automotive films typically have a high solar absorption, which means they hold a lot of the heat from passing through or reflecting which means if you were to put a dark automotive film on a residential or commercial window that receives direct sun, it is likely to crack. That is why its important to install window films that were meant for a home or business, and not install automotive window films on anything but a vehicle, with a few exceptions. There are always exceptions.
Can you put window film on Low E glass?
Window film can be applied to Low E windows in most cases. Exterior application can be the best for performance on Low E glass.
Why is window film not recommended for dual pane windows?
It is typically due to a lack of knowledge of window film solutions specifically for dual pane windows. Technology has brought the window film industry a variety of residential and commercial window films that are meant to be applied to dual pane windows.
Is window film installed on the inside or outside?
Residential and commercial window films are available for interior and exterior application. Most commonly window film is installed on the interior as they will last longer with interior application. There are more interior window film options than exterior. There are instances where exterior window film installation is a better option than the interior, sometimes due to access and other times due to not having access to the interior. Exterior window films can be an especially great fit for high efficiency glass and can out perform interior applied window films.
An essential aspect to consider when applying window film to residential or commercial buildings is recognizing the type of glass you’re working with. The installation process doesn’t differ, but understanding the differences between tempered and annealed glass significantly impacts the performance and compatibility of the window film.
Annealed glass, a commonly used variety in the production of windows, is made using a specific process known as annealing. This involves slowly cooling the molten glass to room temperature after it has been formed. The slow cooling process is critical as it allows the glass structure to reach a stable state, reducing internal stresses that could otherwise lead to fractures or breaks.
The annealing process plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall durability and structural integrity of the glass. By minimizing internal stresses, annealed glass can better withstand everyday wear and tear, pressure changes, and minor impacts. This makes it a suitable choice for numerous applications beyond windows, such as in decorative elements or in areas where glass strength is not a primary concern.
However, despite its widespread use and benefits, annealed glass does pose a significant safety risk. Unlike tempered glass, which breaks into small, relatively harmless chunks, annealed glass shatters into large, sharp shards when broken. These shards can pose a serious risk of injury, especially in areas with high foot traffic or where children or pets are present.
Tempered glass, alternatively known as toughened glass, holds a distinctive place in the realm of glass varieties due to its enhanced strength and heat resistance. It’s manufactured using a controlled thermal or chemical treatment process, which involves heating the glass to a high temperature and then rapidly cooling it. This treatment process instills tempered glass with its unique attributes, making it up to four to five times stronger than standard annealed glass.
The physical robustness of tempered glass enables it to endure higher levels of stress, including significant temperature fluctuations, without fracturing. This heat resistance feature makes it an excellent choice for locations exposed to direct sunlight or varying weather conditions, such as sunrooms, skylights, and commercial buildings. Additionally, the strength of tempered glass means it’s less likely to get scratched or damaged during daily use, contributing to its longevity and durability.
A standout safety feature of tempered glass is the manner in which it breaks. Unlike annealed glass, which shatters into large, dangerous shards, tempered glass fractures into small, cube-like pieces upon impact. This characteristic significantly minimizes the potential for injury, making it an especially safe choice for high-traffic areas such as entrance doors, sliding doors, or commercial storefronts. The disintegration pattern of tempered glass can also aid in the identification process for window tinters, further highlighting its distinctive traits.
Given its safety and durability features, it’s no surprise that tempered glass is often the preferred choice for many residential and commercial applications. As a window tinter, recognizing and understanding the characteristics of tempered glass broadens the range of possible tinting options.
When it comes to applying window film on annealed glass, it’s crucial to select a film that does not absorb excessive heat. The reason being, excessive heat can induce spontaneous shattering of the annealed glass. Some types of window films, such as neutral or ceramic, can absorb substantial amounts of solar heat, rendering them risky for annealed glass.
On the other hand, tempered glass, due to its heat resistance, can comfortably accommodate a wider variety of window films, including those that absorb more heat rather than merely reflecting it. Hence, identifying tempered glass in a client’s home or office broadens the range of available tinting options.
In essence, distinguishing between annealed and tempered glass prior to applying window film is crucial to prevent potential compatibility issues and enhance the film’s performance. It not only safeguards the occupants but also extends the windows’ lifespan.
Remember, if there’s any doubt, it’s safer to assume the glass is annealed unless proven otherwise. By understanding the differences between annealed and tempered glass and learning how to identify them, you can choose the most appropriate window film for your project and ensure it performs optimally.
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