Window Film to Prevent Overheating and Solar Glare in Schools

Solar energy can have a detrimental effect in many workplaces, whether that is in offices, warehouses or even schools. The common complaint of overheating and solar glare can make working environments extremely uncomfortable to be in, consequently leading to unhealthy (and unhappy) employees. In schools - the focus of this article - both pupils and teachers are finding these problems increasingly difficult to cope with.

Whilst the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends 24 degrees Celsius as a maximum for comfortable working, Safety law does not set a legal limit for workplace temperature. And despite the WHO regarding anything above 26 degrees Celsius as "definitely unacceptable", many pupils and teachers continue to suffer with overheating and solar glare as a result of inadequate countermeasures.

Tim Lucas, a chemistry teacher and NUT branch secretary in East Sussex, says: "Schools can get so hot there is a deleterious effect on the ability of teachers and pupils to concentrate." Many people also complain of dizziness, fainting and even heat cramps as a result of overbearing temperatures.

Thankfully there is an effective solution: Window Film. The application of Window Film can reduce solar heat gain by up to 75%, and also reduce glare by up to 85%. In schools where pupils are expected to concentrate for long periods of time, reducing indoor heat is essential if children are to receive the best possible education. Likewise, if teachers are to teach effectively they also must enjoy a comfortable working environment. In addition, with more and more schools investing in Information Technology infrastructure and computers, reducing glare on Visual Display Units (VDUs) has never been more important. Window Film can effectively solve these two problems in one fell swoop. Applying solar Window Film to glass can also minimise UV (Ultra Violet) radiation whilst maintaining natural light - yet another significant benefit!

The problems associated with solar energy are generally more prominent in schools that have been built more recently. New schools tend to contain a great deal of glass and feature more complex designs, making solar energy even more difficult to combat. The problem is exacerbated further since UK schools rarely have air conditioning installed.

Window Film also provides other practical benefits, such as increased security. Many "combination" Window Films offer both solar protection and security benefits, thereby helping to reduce the threat of burglary. Security Window Film can offer increased glass protection (ideal for preventing smashed glass), or may act as a deterrent by hiding equipment from view. But one must not forget the aesthetic benefits of Window Film. It can improve the appearance of school exteriors and completely transform glass facades, so much so that once completed, a school may look completely regenerated.

With a significant reduction in heat coupled with the additional benefit of anti-glare properties, solar Window Film it fast becoming the product of choice for schools wishing to combat overheating and solar glare. The product enhances the learning environment by creating a more comfortable atmosphere, and benefits both pupils and teachers alike.