Common Window Film Terms Explained

Window film specifications, installation guides, and product descriptions often contain technical terms that may be unfamiliar to new customers. This glossary explains some of the most common window film terminology used throughout the industry.

A

Adhesive

The bonding layer that attaches window film to glass. Different films may use different adhesive systems depending on the application and performance requirements.

Annealed Glass

Standard float glass that has not been heat-strengthened or tempered. Annealed glass is commonly found in residential and commercial applications.

C

Ceramic Window Film

A window film that uses non-conductive ceramic technology to provide heat insulation, UV protection, glare reduction, and optical clarity.

Cure Time

The amount of time required for residual installation moisture to evaporate and for the film to fully dry after installation. During the curing process, water haze, distortion, or small water pockets may be visible and are often considered normal.

D

Daytime Privacy

A condition where reflective window film makes it difficult to see into a building during daylight hours. Daytime privacy depends on lighting conditions and may reverse at night when interior lights are brighter than exterior lighting.

F

Film-to-Glass Compatibility

The process of determining whether a specific window film is suitable for a particular glass type. Factors such as glass construction, size, Low-E coatings, and exposure conditions can affect compatibility.

G

Glare Reduction

A measurement of how effectively a window film reduces visible light and glare from the sun.

I

IGU (Insulated Glass Unit)

A window system consisting of two or more panes of glass separated by a sealed air or gas-filled space. Commonly referred to as dual-pane or triple-pane windows.

Infrared Rejection (IR Rejection)

A measurement of how effectively a film blocks infrared energy, which is often associated with the sensation of solar heat.

L

Laminated Glass

A type of safety glass consisting of two or more pieces of glass bonded together with an interlayer. Laminated glass helps hold broken glass together when damaged.

Low-Angle Haze (LAH)

A visual characteristic sometimes seen in certain window films when viewed at extreme angles or under specific lighting conditions. Lower haze generally indicates greater optical clarity.

Low-E Glass

Glass with a low-emissivity coating designed to improve energy efficiency by reflecting heat. Low-E glass is common in modern residential and commercial buildings.

P

Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA)

An adhesive system that bonds to glass through pressure applied during installation. Most modern automotive window films use pressure-sensitive adhesives.

R

Reflective Window Film

A film designed to reflect a portion of the sun's energy while often creating a more reflective exterior appearance. Reflective films are commonly used in architectural applications.

S

Safety and Security Film

A thicker film designed to help hold broken glass together after impact. These films may help reduce hazards from flying glass fragments and can help delay entry when used with appropriate attachment systems.

SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient)

A measurement of how much solar heat enters a building through a window system. Lower SHGC values generally indicate better solar heat control.

Solar Heat Gain

The increase in temperature caused by solar energy entering through glass.

Solar Control Film

A category of window film designed primarily to reduce solar heat gain, glare, and UV exposure.

T

Tempered Glass

Heat-treated safety glass designed to break into smaller pieces when shattered. Tempered glass is commonly used in vehicles, doors, and certain architectural applications.

Thermal Stress

Stress placed on glass when different portions of the glass experience different temperatures. Excessive thermal stress can contribute to glass breakage under certain conditions.

TSER (Total Solar Energy Rejected)

A measurement of the total amount of solar energy rejected by a glass and film combination. TSER includes ultraviolet, visible light, and infrared energy.

U

U-Factor

A measurement of how well a window system prevents heat from escaping. Lower U-Factor values indicate better insulating performance.

Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation

A portion of the sun's energy spectrum that can contribute to skin damage, fading, and material deterioration.

V

Visible Light Reflectance (VLR)

The percentage of visible light reflected by a glass and film combination. Higher values generally create a more reflective appearance.

Visible Light Transmission (VLT)

The percentage of visible light that passes through the glass and film combination. Lower VLT percentages result in a darker appearance.

W

Wet Glaze System

A window system where the glass is secured using sealants or glazing compounds rather than mechanical retention systems.