Heat and glare from the sun can cause considerable discomfort to staff in the working environment. This can be a problem not just during the summer months but on winter and spring days too when the sun is low on the horizon. This was a key factor in the decision to renovate existing windows and upgrade them with a solar control film as part of a refurbishment programme at this Wembley office block.
Alternative options such as window replacement or the installation of secondary glazing were investigated but not considered cost-effective or practical for this building. Therefore a series of product comparison tests were carried out on a selection of grades of solar control films to determine which was best suited to meet the building’s need. Reflective Silver 20 was finally chosen for all external elevations because it offers high levels of solar glare and heat reduction. Made from laminated polyester film with a metallised aluminium-coated finish, it achieves excellent glare reduction and heat rejection through a combination of reflecting and absorbing the sun’s rays.
The film has increased comfort levels inside the building and, through its ability to reduce the amount of solar heat entering the building, has enable the air-conditioning units to function more efficiently.
It has also reduced the heat loss from inside during winter, making the building more energy efficient.
The silver reflective film used at Wembley has transformed the appearance of the building, making a significant visual contribution to the refurbishment programme. The reflective finish effective conceals from view the perimeter columns directly behind the windows, giving the elevations a more streamlines look.