In the current global climate, the demand for enhanced building security is being driven by a visible increase in threats to property and safety. As highlighted in the “How-To Playbook, Enhance Building Security with Window Film Solutions” by BOMA International and Avery Dennison, now available for download, headlines are frequently dominated by incidents ranging from extreme weather events and accidental damage to intentional acts such as vandalism, political protests, and public shootings. These events have created a pressing need for communities and elected officials to respond with measures that ensure more robust and resilient structures.
The Benefits of Security Window Film
The primary advantage of security window film is its cost-effectiveness and ease of implementation. Replacing windows and doors in an entire office building is a massive undertaking in terms of cost, time, and resources. Security films allow for the upgrading of existing glazing systems with minimal disruption to building operations. They provide the necessary security benefits without the capital expenditure of full glass replacement.
Beyond security, these films offer versatility. While typically clear to maintain existing aesthetics, they are available in various colors and shades to provide privacy. Furthermore, they can be specified to offer solar and UV protection, contributing to a building’s sustainability goals by managing utility costs and reducing energy consumption.
Installation, Inspection, and Validation
Installation should be performed by professionals trained by the manufacturer. They must follow strict guidelines to ensure the installation aligns with certification standards. The process typically involves “daylight installation,” where the film is applied to the visible surface of the glass. Because security films use a thicker adhesive, they require a specific curing time, during which they must not be disturbed. This requirement necessitates clear communication between the installer, building owner, and project manager. Finally, certification standards often mandate inspections throughout the cleaning, installation, and curing phases to validate that the film will perform as intended.
As threats to building security evolve, security window film stands out as a practical and versatile solution for existing structures. To read the full “How To Playbook” from BOMA International and Avery Dennison, click here for your complimentary copy. Avery Dennison and The Architect’s Newspaper offers a CE Strong course on this topic as well. Watch this on-demand course and earn 1 AIA HSW LU at https://www.cestrong.com/courses/demystifying-security-solutions-in-architecture-building-amp-design-projects.
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