Architectural window film is a retrofit solar-control film applied to existing glazing to cut heat gain, glare and UV without replacing glass. Shimao supplies 1.52 m rolls in ceramic, metalised and clear grades from 5% to 70% VLT for offices, hotels and shopfronts, with a one-roll minimum.
How much heat can architectural film reject?
Solar-control films reject 50–80% of total solar energy depending on grade: metallised films sit at the top for heat, ceramic films keep more visible light for the same rejection. A typical east-facing office window gains 500–700 W/m² at peak, and film removes a large share of that load before it reaches the HVAC system.
Will window film pay for itself?
Film is usually quoted at a fraction of glass replacement, and cooling demand in a glazed office can fall 20–30% after installation. Payback commonly lands between 2 and 5 years depending on climate, electricity price and how much of the load is solar. Ratings used for the calculation follow NFRC procedures.
Which film suits which glass?
Single-pane clear glass takes almost any grade. Double-glazed units need a film matched to the unit to avoid thermal stress, and low-E glass needs a film that will not trap heat in the cavity. Tinted or reflective grades reduce glare, clear ceramic grades preserve daylight. Always confirm the glass specification before ordering.
Reference material: NFRC publishes the ratings that describe solar and visible-light performance, and ENERGY STAR documents the savings window treatments can deliver.
