Aug 11, 2015
Project: Installation of 7% VLT Window Film
Client: Gradient Financial Group
Location: Arden Hills, MN
When our client moved into an office building in Arden Hills, MN, they may not have expected to have major glare and heat issues, but that is what they experienced.
Most of their personnel sat next to or facing the windows and with the windows facing East, South and West, the sun exposure was causing problems for them throughout the day. The 30+ year old windows had a light tint in them but no extra added protection from the solar heat, glare and UV rays that blasted these offices. It was extremely difficult for the staff to view computer screens for the majority of the day, causing disruption and frustration for employees.
Except for a few individual offices and conference rooms, the floor plan is a fairly open layout, allowing the solar heat to easily spread throughout the space. Even with an upgraded HVAC system in place, the A/C was barely able to keep up with the heat build-up from all the windows.
Our client knew that they wanted solar control window film installed. It was important to them that the addition of window tinting would complement the existing look from the outside, not change it. They also wanted to stay away from solar control films with a mirror-like finish. Solar Energy Control proposed that they use a commercial architectural dual-reflective dark tinted film. The film choices presented for consideration have these specifications:
- a 25% Visible Light Transmission, with 72% Glare Reduction and 66% Total Solar Energy Rejection,
- a 15% Visible Light Transmission, with 83% Glare Reduction and 75% Total Solar Energy Rejection, and
- a 7% Visible Light Transmission, with 94% Glare Reduction and 84% Total Solar Energy Rejection.
Film samples were put up so the different characteristics of the films were visibly apparent. The C.E.O. decided that they needed the darkest film, the 7% VLT. 
During and after the window tinting installation, employees immediately noticed that the glare problem had been solved. Personnel can now view their computer screens, easing eye strain and frustration levels. The air conditioning is able to keep the office temperatures stable and balanced, eliminating the previous hot and cool spots. Energy consumption is reduced as is the wear and tear on the HVAC system. And the exterior appearance of the building remains congruent.
An additional benefit that window film provides is the 99% rejection of UV rays. Extended exposure to these ultraviolet rays cause damage to skin, even indoors. Untreated glass only blocks UVB rays, and it’s the UVA rays that penetrate deeply into cells and promote
skin aging and damage. Extra peace of mind is realized with the installation of window film because both the UVA and UVB rays are blocked. This UV protection also guards against fading of building carpeting and office furniture.
When you experience frustrations with solar heat and glare, contact Solar Energy Control. We will work with you to choose the best window film for your individual situation and professionally install it for you. The comfort and efficiency of your employees, along with energy savings and UV protection that you will gain, all add up to being wise business decision.
