07/23/2024
written by Alice O.
FAQ Heat protection film
Questions and answers about thermal protection films.
In this article, you'll find out how a heat-shielding solar film works, as well as answers to the most frequently asked questions. A question doesn't appear, and you'd like to know the answer? Contact one of our advisors. 😊
Is the heat-shielding film installed on the inside or outside?
Both are possible. We recommend exterior installation to maximize the film's thermal protection and reduce the risk of thermal shock. Interior installation is possible for certain types of glazing. Find out more in our article "How to install solar film".
The direction in which a film is to be applied is always indicated on the product sheet and the technical data sheet. Check that your glazing is compatible before placing your order.
How do I apply heat-shielding film?
If you'd like to do the installation yourself, and save on installation costs, check out our installation tutorials! 😉
For self-adhesive films: "How do I apply self-adhesive film?
For electrostatic films: "How do I apply electrostatic film?
Need an installation service? Ask for a free quote!
Are you new to applying heat-shielding film? The first time, do it in pairs 😉
Is heat-shielding film compatible with Velux windows?
Yes, completely. For sloping surfaces such as velux windows, we strongly advise you to install on the outside. This will reduce the risk of thermal shock.
Does the heat-shielding film have an impact on room brightness?
Yes and no, it depends on the tint of the film chosen 😉 Brightness will remain unchanged with a transparent film like 3M transparent Prestige 70 solar film; it may be slightly lower like with GLASSplus-241x solar film. Generally speaking, the more tinted the film, the more effective it is against heat.
Ask for samples of several films so you can compare their shades at home.
What's the difference between adhesive and electrostatic heat-shielding film?
An adhesive film will look totally clear: if you don't know, you probably won't even notice that there's an adhesive film on a window. Adhesive films are also more durable (5 to 15 years depending on the reference, versus 2 years for an electrostatic film).
Electrostatic film has a slightly murkier appearance than adhesive film. It's very practical to apply, as it can be repositioned. If you mess up, you can remove it and start again. What's more, you can remove it, store it over winter and reapply it the following season.
Aesthetics and durability versus practicality and reusability → Choose your side 😉
Will the heat-shielding film keep the heat out of my room in winter?
The anti-heat effect is permanent: the film will reject the sun's rays whether you're in summer or winter. However, the difference is much less noticeable in winter, and the film will provide an extra layer of insulation for your glazing. Find out more in our article "Does anti-heat film keep the heat out in winter?
Do you use the sun for heating in winter? Choose electrostatic support.
Why won't my heat protection film hold?
There are several causes of early detachment:
- Glass cleaning: Poorly cleaned/degreased glass won't adhere to the glass.
- Protective liner: Don't forget to remove it
- Laying direction: Be careful not to lay the film upside down.
- Dimensions : The film must not overlap the glass joints.
If these 4 points have been respected, we invite you to contact an advisor.
How do I get bubbles to appear?
If bubbles appear a few hours after installation, this is normal. These bubbles are due to the humidity under the film. They will disappear after a few days as they dry.
If you see a bubble with a small dot inside, it's dirt/dust. In this case, if your film is adhesive, it won't be possible to remove it. The best you can do is to pierce the bubble with a fine needle, to force out the surrounding air and reduce the size of the bubble.
If after a month you still see bubbles (which are not dust), contact an advisor.
Our tips for avoiding bubbles:
- Perfectly clean your glass and its edges
- Use clean equipment
- Stamp from the inside out.
How do you choose a heat-shielding film from all your references?
You need to decide beforehand which substrate, shade and type of installation you want. To help you, take a look at our article "Which heat protection film should I choose for my home?
Use the filters to display only the films you like.
How does heat-shielding film work?
Anti-heat films contain micro-particles that reflect the sun's rays. Some of these rays are one of the causes of heat transfer in our interiors. Find out more about how heat-shielding films work.
Not all anti-heat films have a mirror effect. But all mirror-effect films have an anti-heat effect 😉
How do I clean glass with heat-shielding film?
After applying a film, wait at least 1 month before cleaning your glass. Then you can clean your glass exactly as before.
How do I remove my heat-shield film easily?
Removing adhesive film from glass is simple: just pull from one corner. And if it's an electrostatic film, it's even easier ;) See our video tutorial in our article "How to remove window film".
If your film is several years old, you can use a scraper and a removal solution.
Does heat-shielding film affect birds?
Birds tend to bump into glass panes because they don't see the obstacle, they only see the reflection of the sky, which for them is continuity. This happens even without mirror effect film. To warn them of an obstacle, we offer anti-collision stickers.
Is the heat-shielding film dangerous (motorists, traffic lights, etc.)?
The risk of glare is present, with or without metallized film. The mirror effect may accentuate the glare, but it will never remain for very long, since people and the sun are in motion.
As far as fire outbreaks are concerned, given the large size of the glazing and the perpetual movement of the sun, the risk of fire starting is virtually nil.
How many degrees can you gain with heat-shielding film?
It's possible to save around 5°C with an anti-heat film. Some testimonials report as much as 7°C! 🤩 This gain depends on :
- the effectiveness of the chosen film
- the type and size of your glazing
- room size and insulation
The best way to see the film's effectiveness is to touch a window with and without solar film! You'll immediately notice the difference.
What is thermal shock?
This is a reaction that occurs when a material is subjected to a temperature difference that is too great and too rapid. In the case of window panes, thermal shock can crack and break the glass. Unfortunately, the pane will have to be replaced.