External Window Film
External window film is fitted to the window from the outside. This type is chosen when internal installation is not possible, or when maximum solar heat protection is required. Modern double-glazed units have a complex construction, and internal installation demands careful selection of the appropriate window film. External window film, by contrast, can be fitted freely to any glazed unit without restriction.
The drawbacks of outdoor window film include a higher price point and a shorter lifespan due to exposure to the elements. These films are thicker and have a stronger outer protective layer. They are more resistant to different climatic conditions. External window films are widely used in the UK.
Why Are External Application Window Films Used?
- First of all, some glass surfaces are hard to reach from the inside. There can be supporting columns, pipes or other different objects in front of the window that interfere and cannot be moved away.
- Sometimes it is easier to install window films from the outside than from the inside.
- External mirror window film is 12 to 15 per cent more effective than indoor ones.
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Please remember that external film requires appropriate weather conditions for installation.
- The air temperature is not less than 5°C
- Wind speed is not stronger than 4 metres per second
Our Range of External Application Window Film
You can order the following window films for outdoor installation:
- Omg 20 Ex — external mirror film, 20%
- Omg 30 Ex — semi-mirror film for external installation
- Bronze AT 20 EX — bronze mirror film, 20%
- Bronze AT 35 EX — light bronze mirror film
| Model | Colour | VLT % | Reflectance % | Absorptance % | TSER % | Coating Type | UV Rejection | Scratch | Structure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Omg 20 Ex | Silver | 24% | 56% | 20% | 83% | Reflective | 99% | >2H | 2 ply |
| Omg 30 Ex | Silver | 32% | 45% | 23% | 71% | Reflective | 99% | >2H | 2 ply |
| Bronze AT 20 EX | Bronze | 19% | 46% | 35% | 83% | Reflective sputtered | 99% | >2H | 2 ply |
| Bronze AT 35 EX | Bronze | 34% | 33% | 33% | 75% | Reflective sputtered | 99% | >2H | 2 ply |
Service Life of Exterior Window Film in UK Conditions
Exterior window films last less than those installed from the inside. The guaranteed service life is usually indicated; the film may last a little longer. The service life of external window films in UK climates is quite long, but depends on many factors, for example:
- Angle of sun rays;
- Temperature difference within 24 hours (day and night);
- Temperature difference over the course of a year (winter and summer);
- Wind direction, slanting rain, snow, etc.
As a rule, the life-span of the exterior window film is four to six years. The film does not disappear after this period — it becomes less clear, and the breakdown of the film's main components begins. As a rule, wear is 15 to 25 per cent per year (this depends on numerous conditions). Exterior window film is a fairly popular, time-tested solution in the UK.
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