Product Benefits
- What are the main advantages of Panorama window film?
- What are the advantages of Panorama window film compared with "outdoor" solar protection methods?
- What are the advantages of Panorama window film compared with "indoor" solar protection methods?
- Does Panorama window film make a home cooler?
- Panorama window film reflects the heat during the summer, but what effect does the film have during the winter?
- What effect does Panorama window film have on visibility through the windows?
- How do solar protection films work in general and Panorama films specifically?
- How do safety films work in general and thicker Panorama window films specifically?
- Does Panorama window film prevent your window from breaking?
- Can Panorama window film withstand storms?
- Is Panorama window film bullet-proof?
- Does Panorama window film prevent breaking and entering?
- What factors lead to colors fading inside a room?
- Does Panorama window film stop furnishings from fading inside a room?
- Does Panorama window film affect houseplants?
1. What are the main advantages of Panorama window film?
Panorama is a three-in-one glass improvement solution:
Keep it cool Panorama window film rejects high levels of solar heat, offering strong protection against bothersome glare, uncomfortable heat, hotspots and uneven temperature fluctuations - improving climate and occupant comfort.
Keep it new Panorama window film blocks 99% of ultraviolet light and rejects various levels of solar heat, the two primary causes of fading and fabric deterioration (40% is attributed to ultraviolet light, 25% solar heat, 25% visible light and 10% other factors such as fabric dye quality and inside lighting). This prolongs the customized appearance and value of a property's interior.
Keep it safe. The flexible construction and pressure-sensitive mounting adhesive of the thicker safety film series help hold shards of glass on the film. This reduces the potential for personal injury and property damage during glass breakage. For this reason, safety film also acts as a deterrent against breaking and entering. In addition, the blockage of ultraviolet light provides a partial deterrent to premature skin aging and some potential skin cancers.
Keeping homeowners safe in more ways than one.
The added beauty of Panorama window film is that it keeps interior environments naturally sunlit and there are special versions available that keep indoors private from passersby.
Bekaert also keeps it professional with only approved Dealers/Installers permitted to sell and install Panorama window film. And, all Panorama window films are covered by Bekaert's industry-leading warranty.
2. What are the advantages of Panorama window film compared with "outdoor" solar protection methods?
"Outdoor" solar protection, such as shutters, prevents unwanted solar energy, as well as desirable visible light from entering a room. Panorama provides protection against uncomfortable solar heat, and damaging ultraviolet light, while maintaining maximum visible light and a clear view through the glass. Additionally, Panorama window film is professionally installed with no drilling required.
3. What are the advantages of Panorama window film compared with "indoor" solar protection methods?
With a one-time cost of having Panorama window film installed, homeowners can begin enjoying a more comfortable, protected interior immediately, while maintaining visible light and desirable views.
"Indoor" solar protection methods, such as blinds or curtains, block visible light and the view to the outside.
Additionally, heat accumulates between the solar protection method and the window, eventually radiating into the room. Air conditioning is one solution, but steadily running it to maintain a constant indoor climate can become expensive.
4. Does Panorama window film make a home cooler?
Yes, the sputter-metallized composition of Panorama window film rejects optimum levels of solar heat to provide a cooler, more comfortable interior climate.
5. Panorama window film reflects the heat during the summer, but what effect does the film have during the winter?
During the winter months, homes will maintain protection from the harmful and damaging effects of solar heat and ultraviolet light - helping to keep furnishings like new. Panorama films with low VLT will also minimize glare that is common with waterfront and snow covered properties. While the safety film versions will also make homes safer if glass is threatened.
6. What effect does Panorama window film have on visibility through the windows?
From the inside looking out? From the outside looking in?
Panorama window film maintains complete visibility through the windows. Inside, Panorama is practically invisible once installed, as it allows high amounts of desirable, visible light to enter. From the outside, Panorama film is either unnoticeable or it complements the exterior of any home as homeowners can choose from a range of films in colorless to soft, neutral hues. Plus, certain Panorama films afford more privacy from the outside looking in. Whatever the homeowner's needs are, Bekaert offers the perfect Panorama window film for installation.
7. How do solar protection films work in general, and Panorama films specifically?
Most window films work towards the same objective, to reduce the transmission of solar heat and ultraviolet light through glass. Window film does this by increasing the amount of solar energy glass reflects and absorbs, thus reducing the amount of uncomfortable, undesirable solar heat transmitted inside.
In general, many window films control heat and ultraviolet using colored pigments, which are not efficient. The dark color absorbs the solar energy into the glass and reradiates a large portion inside, making the room heat-up. In addition, these colored window films prevent a large part of the visible light from penetrating into a room, giving interiors a dark, dim appearance.
Panorama window films in particular are a premier product made from the highest caliber raw materials to ensure flawless appearance and sputter-coated with durable, exotic metals to promote maximum solar control properties. It is the unique combination of metals that reflect and absorb high amounts of heat, while still transmitting optimal visible light. Panorama's high-grade ultraviolet inhibitors block out maximum ultraviolet light, greatly reducing fading inside the home while providing a partial deterrent to premature skin aging and some potential skin cancers. All Panorama window films are coated with a protective scratch-resistant surface to ensure the films maintain their flawless appearance, year after year.
8. How do safety films work in general, and thicker Panorama window films specifically?
Safety films in general mitigate the dangerous effects of projectile glass during accidental and intentional glass breakage, such as natural disasters, terrorism and burglary attempts. Once installed to the interior surface of glass, safety films help hold broken glass together on the film upon impact to prevent airborne pieces from harming people and damaging property. Safety films consist of one or more layers of polyester film laminated together to form a tough, resilient product.
The safety series of Panorama window film works towards the same principle: to help keep shattered glass within the frame and prevent harmful shards from becoming airborne. These films are offered in thickness of 4 and 8 Mil (.004" to .008"), and as clear and solar control versions.
9. Does Panorama window film prevent your window from breaking?
No, Panorama window film does not stop a glass from breaking no matter the thickness. When something impacts an untreated window, the glass will likely shatter and the pieces become airborne into the room. The safety film series works by helping to hold the dangerous shards together securely in the frame. This minimizes the potential for personal injury and property damage/theft.
10. Can Panorama window film withstand storms?
Yes, thicker Panorama window films can withstand storms as the safety series is designed to help protect homes and occupants during violent weather. When storm debris hits a window with safety film, the glass will likely shatter. However, the safety film helps hold the broken glass in place, in the frame - keeping property safe from subsequent looters and wind/rain damage. Violent weather is unpredictable, so having Panorama window film installed on a home offers 24-hour protection all year long.
Anchoring the film to the frame is recommended for optimum glass breakage retention. In addition, the thicker the film the greater the glass breakage protection.
11. Panorama window film bullet-proof?
No, the safety series of Panorama window films are designed to protect property and lives during violent weather, break-ins and accidental impacts.
12. Does Panorama window film prevent breaking and entering?
Yes and no, the safety series of Panorama window film does act as a theft deterrent, as it slows down a potential intruder by making it more difficult to gain entry. When an intruder strikes the safety film protected window with a hammer or similar object, the glass will likely shatter. However, the safety film helps hold the broken glass in place, in the frame.
It takes quite a bit more effort for someone to fully penetrate through the glass and film. Once the burglar sees that they can not gain easy access, they are likely to move on to an easier target.
13. What factors lead to colors fading inside a room?
There are four primary contributors to the fading of furnishings, flooring and window treatments. Ultraviolet light accounts for 40% of fading. Solar heat and visible light are each responsible for 25% of fading. The final 1 0% is caused by miscellaneous factors, such as fabric dye quality and humidity. Since Panorama window film blocks 99% of ultraviolet light and some films reject various levels of solar heat and visible light, this prolongs the customized appearance and value of a property's interior.
14. Does Panorama window film stop furnishings from fading inside a room?
No, nothing can completely prevent the fading of furnishings, flooring and window treatments over time. Yet Panorama window film will help keep colors like new longer, as they were designed to specifically block over 99% of harmful ultraviolet light and high amounts of solar heat. Homeowners will receive optimum protection for their furnishings as Panorama film prolongs the customized appearance and value of a property's interior.
15. Does Panorama window film affect houseplants?
Yes and no, Panorama window film typically has little to no affect on houseplants. A recent study conducted at the laboratory of Plant Ecology of the Department of Applied Ecology and Environmental Biology of the University of Ghent, Belgium shows that most houseplants acclimate automatically to new lighting conditions by making maximum use of the available light, without affecting the ornamental value of the houseplant.
Houseplants that do not need high light intensities will never experience growth problems once Panorama window film is installed. However, houseplants with a very high light intensity need and hence a very small or poor physiological tolerance can show a reduction of the photosynthesis process when grown under any kind of solar control window film with a low visible light transmittance. This reduced photosynthesis process can, in the long run, prove to be detrimental for these type of plants.
Installation and Maintenance
- Can anyone install Panorama window film?
- Can Panorama window film be installed to any type of window?
- Can Panorama window film lead to thermal stress or cause the window to break?
- Can Panorama window film damage a double glazing seal?
- What thicknesses do safety Panorama window films come in?
- What do I need to do before the installation?
- What do I need to do if the view is blurred after installation?
- How long does window film take to dry out?
- How do I clean window film?
- How do I remove window film?
1. Can anyone install Panorama window film?
No, Panorama window film is only installed by Bekaert's expert network of Panorama Dealers/Installers. This elite, global network of window film professionals are trained to properly assess the homeowner's needs and seamlessly install the right product. Plus, having Panorama film installed by certified Dealers/Installers enables homeowners to benefit from the product's comprehensive warranty.
2. Can Panorama window film be installed to any type of window?
Yes, Panorama window film can be installed to any window. However, the important thing for any Panorama Dealer/Installer to check is the extent in which the film absorbs solar energy. Darker films absorb more solar energy and will greatly heat glass. If part of a window is shaded in this instance, it can lead to thermal stress sometimes to the point of a window breaking (thermal break).
In the case of double glazing (IG Units), installing too dark of a window film on the interior glass may result in an increase in the temperature of that window compared with the outer window. The expansion may ultimately cause the seal between the windows to break. This is why Panorama window film is only installed by Bekaert's expert network of Panorama Dealers/Installers, to ensure the right film is used considering all circumstances.
3. Can Panorama window film lead to thermal stress or cause the window to break?
It is uncommon for Panorama window film to lead to thermal stress, thus causing a window to break. Most Panorama window films are automatically approved for installation on the most common glass types, since the solar absorption rate is very low. However, there are select film-to-glass installations which may require special approval to ensure warranty coverage.
4. Can Panorama window film damage a double glazing seal?
It is uncommon for Panorama window film to damage an IG unit, since the solar absorption rate is very low. Over the last 25 years, Bekaert has installed several hundred thousand square feet of window film to dual pane windows throughout the world. Seal problems are generally associated with incorrect installation.
5. What thicknesses do safety Panorama window films come in?
Panorama window films for safety are 4 Mil (.004") and 8 Mil (.008") thick, with standard Panorama window films for solar control measuring 2 Mil (.002"). The thicker the film, the greater the glass breakage protection. Film to frame anchoring is recommended for optimum glass breakage retention.
6. What do I need to do before the installation?
A few preparatory tasks on the part of the homeowner make installing Panorama window film easier. Be sure to give a copy of the customer advice guide to the homeowner prior to the installation date.
Window sills should be cleared of any items. Curtains or blinds should be removed or hung in a way to leave the window totally unobstructed. Any furniture that may impede access to the windows should be moved. If the Dealer/Installer needs to move heavy furniture, this should be discussed and noted on the estimate agreement.
To limit the amount of dust and particles in the air, we recommend closing the air conditioning and heating vents around the windows. Pets should be kept in another room or outside. (cont'd 9.10)
Before the installation, the homeowner and Dealer/Installer should inspect the windows together. Broken glass, loose or uneven windows, self-adhesive stickers, alarm systems and other elements that might affect the installation should be discussed and recorded on the estimate. This will allow the Dealer/Installer to take adequate measures and suggest the most suitable film.
Dealers/Installers need to be aware of any glass that has been broken or if there have been previous problems with the windows. This information can help the Dealer/Installer suggest the window film best suited for the homeowner. Failing to provide this information could lead to a less suitable film being chosen and/or the warranty being cancelled.
7. What do I need to do if the view is blurred after installation?
Do not do anything, as the water bubbles and blurred view will disappear over time. The water bubbles and/or a blurred view are normal. The Dealer/Installer removes as much of the installation fluid from between the film and glass as possible, but the remaining fluid used during the installation of Panorama film requires a drying time.
Do not pierce water bubbles during this drying period. This damage to the window film will not be covered by the warranty.
8. How long does window film take to dry out?
Film type and climate conditions will determine the drying time experienced. Warm weather and direct sunlight will shorten the drying time, while cooler climates, cloudy conditions and thicker films may prolong it. Drying may vary from a few days to several months.
9. How do I clean window film?
Window film should not be cleaned for 30 days after it is installed. This helps the installation fluid to dry and secures the special mounting adhesive to the glass. The best cleaning method is to use 1/2 ounce of liquid detergent mixed with about 1 quart of pure demineralized water. We do not recommend degreasing agents or detergents containing alcohol, acid or ammonia.
Clean, soft materials should be used to clean and dry the coated surfaces. A clean, soft cloth or sponge is recommended for washing the window film, followed by another clean, soft cloth or rubber squeegee to dry the film. To avoid scratching the film do not use bristle brushes, abrasive scrubbing sponges, paper towels or cleaning materials that may have been contaminated with dirt particles. These materials can cause the polished layer of the film to deteriorate over time.
10. How do I remove window film?
Panorama window film is not meant for easy removal, as it is a professionally retrofit product for long-term performance. Only an approved Panorama Dealer/Installer should remove the window film as they have the skill and tools to do so. For further advice, contact your local Bekaert sales representative or service center.
Cost and warrenty
- How much does Panorama window film cost?
- What is the payback time for Panorama window film?
- What warranty does Bekaert offer on Panorama window film?
1. How much does Panorama window film cost?
Panorama window film costs vary. The price depends on the condition of the window, window type, accessibility at the time of installation, special installation tools required, and the type of window film selected. It includes a comprehensive warranty and installation by a professional Dealer/Installer. Once in place, there are no maintenance fees.
2. What is the payback time for Panorama window film?
If the homeowner uses air conditioning, they will quickly see a return on their investment with solar control Panorama window film. The type of return will depend on the film installed and energy consumption. The window film reflects a high amount of uncomfortable solar heat, ensuring the house is cooler and more comfortable and allowing the homeowner to consume less energy.
Bekaert will introduce in 2007 proprietary software to help dealers and end-users better understand the savings and/or payback of their particular window film purchase. As you complete various installations it is recommended that you keep a record of the savings and/or paybacks calculated for each, to help you demonstrate the value of Panorama window film to future prospects.
For specific information and examples, contact your local Bekaert service center.
3. What warranty does Bekaert offer on Panorama window film?
Bekaert provides comprehensive warranty coverage on all professionally installed window films as part of the Panorama program's commitment to supplying the Dealer/Installer network with top quality window films and support. There are the limited lifetime residential and limited 12-year commercial warranties.
Refer to the actual warranty documents in section six for more details.