FAQs - Page 2 of 2 - Unique Window Films

Q: Do 3M Sun Control window films cause seal failure when applied to insulated glass units?

No. 3M window films will not cause seal failure. Over 90% of our installations in Canada are on IG (Insulated Glass) units. When films are applied to the inside of an insulated unit, there will be some absorption (except for clear safety and security films) of solar energy, which will increase the temperature of glass. Some of this heat will transmit to the airspace, slightly raising the airspace temperature. However, even a 20° increase will result in a less than 3% change in air pressure, whereas properly made insulated units are designed and tested to withstand 22% changes in air pressure. Risk of seal failure is greatly determined by the quality of workmanship and the quality of the materials used in manufacturing the insulated unit. Manufacturers of insulated units usually offer a warranty of 5-10 years against seal failure. (No insulated unit manufacturer offers warranty for glass breakage of any kind, only seal failure). Since some manufacturers may cancel the seal failure warranty if window films are installed, 3M Canada is offering a seal failure warranty of 3 years, however the 3M warranty cannot extend beyond the original window manufacturer’s seal failure warranty period.

Q: Do 3M Sun Control window films cause glass to break?

No. 3M Sun Control window films do not cause the glass to break. With the application of any film, it will increase the temperature of your sunlit glass that in turn will increase the stress on the glass edges. The quality of those glass edges and other factors such as external and/or interior shading, type of glass, type of film etc. all contribute to the potential risk of thermal glass breakage. Since 3M invented the world's first window film in 1966 and holds the original patent, our experience of applying window films to glass around the world enables us to offer proper film/glass combinations to minimize the potential for thermal breakage. In addition, we support these recommendations with our 5 year thermal glass breakage warranty.

Q: How long does it take for 3M Sun Control window films to dry?

It takes approximately 30 days for the film to fully dry and cure. During the curing process, it is natural to have small water bubbles and/or a hazy milkiness appearance. These will disappear as the film dries. Once dried, the film will look fantastic and perform for many years to come.

Q: What is the typical payback period on energy savings for 3M Sun Control Window Films?

Payback periods will vary depending on the type of glass, type of film, cost of air-conditioning and heating, demand rates, cost of installation and other variables. In the past, we have seen energy savings payback less than 5 years. We offer a comprehensive analysis of your building to calculate energy savings.

Q: How do 3M Sun Control Plus All Seasons Films work?

3M Sun Control Plus All Season Window Films, or Low E films, function similar to sun control films except that they offer an increased performance against cold weather heat loss. The patented construction of these films enables the metal coatings to reflect more of the interior room heat back into the room where it is needed. This improves comfort by reducing potential drafts near the window, and may also save on fuel costs, especially in commercial buildings. The LE films are also protected with our unique abrasion resistant coating to ensure long-term durability and maintained appearance.

Q: How do 3M Sun Control Films work?

3M Sun Control Films are precision coated films that are designed to reduce the amount of solar heat transmission through window glass by increasing the solar reflection and solar absorption through the glass. 3M Sun Control Films are available in a wide range of densities and colours to satisfy all requirements for performance and appearance. All films are transparent and optically clear. The ultra-violet protection in the adhesive system protects the adhesive from changing colour and UV degradation. This UV protection will also help protect your property (home and office furnishings) by blocking up to 99% of UV rays, which is the main cause of fading. All films are protected with an abrasion resistant coating for long-term durability and maintained appearance.