Do we offer subtle-looking, low-mirror window film that can be installed from the outside?
16 January 2025Anyone who has spent enough time browsing the selection of solar control window film options on the Stockfilms website will know the answer to the above question is, of course, yes.
Of much greater importance, however, will be the specifics of what our external low-mirror window films will enable you to achieve for a given building.
Sometimes, a more neutral look is preferrable for window film
If you are on the lookout for a window film that delivers good solar heat and glare control, but which offers a more neutral outward appearance than the mirrored aesthetic often associated with solar control films, our Opalux-branded external low-mirror films are well worth your consideration.
After all, the building on which you are looking to install window film may be a relatively architecturally sensitive one, such as a heritage structure or a listed building, where the more dramatic and noticeable reflective look of certain other window films is not appropriate.
A low-mirror aesthetic, though, doesn’t have to mean low performance
There are, of course, also the more “functional” reasons why the application of solar control window film is desirable. In this regard, our external low-mirror films are highly impressive:
- The Sputtered Bronze 35 film transmits 35% of visible light, but rejects 64% of total solar energy, and drives down glare by 62%
- The Sputtered Grey 20 film records 22% visible light transmission, rejects 68% of total solar energy, and achieves a whopping 75% glare reduction
- The Sputtered Grey 35 film allows the transmission of 38% of visible light, delivers 52% total solar energy rejection, and lessens glare by 57%.
As you can see, the exact specifications of these window film options vary slightly, but the broad principles of how these low-mirror solar control films work is consistent. They cater to the need to reduce the discomfort that excessive heat and glare cause, while also screening harsh ultraviolet (UV) rays, which helps slow down the fading of interior furnishings.
Moreover, these window films allow a good amount of vision through the glass, at the same time as providing a low-impact, muted appearance.
What is the significance of these window films being externally applied?
As the term indicates, an external window film is designed to be installed on the outside surface of glass – in other words, the surface that faces the outdoor elements. An internal window film, meanwhile, is only meant to be applied on the inside surface of glass.
It is crucial to be clear about this distinction when you purchase window films. If, for instance, you know you will be installing your chosen film on the outside surface of a building’s windows (perhaps because the interior surface is not very accessible), making sure you invest in an external film will be crucial for ensuring it can withstand the external weather and UV rays.
While, then, it is not recommended to apply an internal window film on the outside of a building given that it has not been designed for such a purpose, it is fine to apply an external film on the inside. You will therefore need to give careful thought to whatever choice you eventually make.
For advice and guidance that will make your decision-making easier, why not get in touch with our technical support team now? You are welcome to call our friendly staff at Stockfilms on 020 8441 0449 to discuss your concerns and needs, and to ask for a free A4 sample of any window film that catches your eye.