How Window Film Can Improve Energy Efficiency in Schools
MARTINSVILLE, Va. — Schools are constantly weighing the options of “going green,” but many are confronted with the harsh funding barriers that prevent some districts from spending money on green construction projects (or any projects for that matter). However, an answer for some districts may be simple, according to the International Window Film Association (IWFA). The IWFA, based in Martinsville, Va. is a nonprofit trade association composed of window film dealers, distributors and manufacturers in the window film industry and have supported the use of window film in projects nationwide, including school facilities.
Darrell Smith, executive director of IWFA explained the benefits of using window film in renovations at schools, which include reduced energy costs, safety and security, overall cost savings and reduced time for installation.
The energy efficiency of window film has been proven to reduce energy costs, according to Smith. Smith also explained that 98 to 99 percent of UV rays are blocked from entering through glass windows if they are protected by window film.
“Another advantage of using window film is to combat heat loads, and balance out hot and cold spots in the building,” said Smith.
By using window film, it can regulate temperatures on opposite sides of the building, where temperatures may vary depending on the time of day. There is also the added benefit of receiving natural light in the building, while keeping indoor temperatures down. Some districts choose to use curtains to block out the sun’s glare and heat during the day, but this leads to classrooms using artificial lighting. With window film, classrooms are able to utilize natural lighting, while the tint of the window film helps to reflect solar heat gain from entering.
Smith recommended window film for almost every school district, but believes it is more beneficial during a renovation (compared to new construction, although it can be used for new construction to combat glare) in order to save time, money and the environment.
“Schools can extend the life of existing buildings by using window film,” he said. “Window film also helps to improve the energy efficiency of the building. I think it is important to consider window film before ripping out and putting in new windows. It’s a no brainer that window film is cost-effective and you can get the same energy control as new windows, as well as some other added benefits.”
Other benefits include safety and security, such as bomb blast window film products, “which have been tested and are listed in the General Services Administration bomb blast criteria,” said Smith. “If there is a bomb inside the building it protects the people inside and in close proximity outside from falling glass fragments caused by the windows.”
The chosen tint of the window film also helps with added security, as outsiders cannot always see indoors if specific window film is used.
Along with safety, window film is also efficient when it comes to installation as well as return on investment.
“Installation only takes one day [after school] and does not disrupt classes, so it is perfect for schools looking to renovate their windows but on a tight schedule or tight budget,” said Smith.
The cost of window film varies depending on which film is selected and the area in which the film will be used. However, Smith explained that the lower cost of film would range from approximately $4 to $6 per square-foot, while the higher cost of film would range from approximately $5 to $9 per square-foot.
Smith explained that window film has been popular since the late 1970s and increases in popularity every time there is an energy and/or financial crisis, where people look for cost-effective and energy-efficient ways to renovate properties.
Although IWFA does not supply or manufacturer window film, they do provide information on where to locate professional window film personnel, including suppliers, manufacturers, dealers and/or distributors. In order to find out more information about window film and whether or not it is right for your school or school district, please visit, www.iwfa.com.