Solar control glass film versus traditional solar shading: Which is the best choice?

When summer arrives, it often quickly gets too hot inside without the proper means. Solar control glass film and traditional blinds such as screens, curtains and blinds offer several solutions to keep the room cool. But which option best suits your situation? In this comparison, we put the different shading options side by side so you can make an informed choice for optimal summer comfort.

The effect of solar control glass film

Solar control glass film is applied directly to the glass and works by filtering solar radiation before it reaches the interior. The film blocks up to 84% of the heat, while letting most of the daylight through. This is done by special metals in the film that reflect infrared radiation (heat).

The big advantage of glass film is that it works 24 hours a day without you having to worry about it. The TNO-tested films from Glass Film Suncontrol also offer UV protection that protects furniture, floors and art from discoloration. 

Traditional sun protection: screens, curtains and blinds

Traditional shading methods such as screens, curtains and blinds work in a different way. These solutions block sunlight completely or partially after it passes through the glass.

Screens are mounted on the outside of windows and block sunlight before it reaches the glass. Curtains and blinds, on the other hand, are on the inside and block light after it passes through the glass - at which point the heat is actually already inside.

A fair comparison: advantages and disadvantages

To make a good trade-off, we compare the two options on several aspects.

Effectiveness in heat protection

Solar control glass films address the problem at the source by blocking heat before it penetrates. Measurements show that high-quality films can reduce interior temperatures by 3-8°C.

Outdoor screens are also effective because they block sunlight before it hits the glass. Curtains and blinds are less effective because the heat has already passed through the glass and is only partially blocked.

Ease of use and maintenance

Glass film requires no attention after installation. No need to open or close anything, the film works continuously. Maintenance is limited to normal window washing.

Traditional blinds require daily operation. Screens, curtains and blinds must be operated manually or electrically when the sun rises or sets. This means you have to be home or will need to install smart devices for ease of use. In addition, they require regular maintenance and can be damaged in high winds.

Especially for commercial properties, solar control glass film is an ideal solution. In offices, stores or other business locations, it is often impractical to operate blinds on a daily basis or keep meticulous track of maintenance. 

Cost and longevity

Solar control glass film is often more economical to purchase and install than screens or electric blinds, especially with multiple windows. The film has no moving parts, requires little maintenance and lasts 10 to 15 years without replacement costs.

Traditional blinds such as screens, curtains and blinds are more expensive to construct and more susceptible to wear and tear from weather and use. Think of motors, cords or fabrics that break down or need to be replaced. This often increases the total cost over the years.

For commercial properties with many windows, this makes glass film a durable and cost-effective choice.

The best choice for your situation

The ideal solution depends on your specific situation. Solar control glass film is ideally suited for:

• Situations where permanent protection is desired
• Spaces where you want to preserve the view
• Buildings where exterior shading is not permitted or possible
• People seeking a low-maintenance solution
• A combination of shading

Traditional blinds fit better:
- Situations where full blackout is required
- Spaces where you want to adjust the blinds regularly
- Buildings where the appearance may be changed by exterior blinds

Conclusion

Both solar control glass film and traditional solar shading have their place in the fight against overheating. Glass film offers a permanent, maintenance-free solution that addresses the problem at its source. Traditional solar shading offers more control but requires more attention.

For many people, a combination of the two options is ideal: sunscreen film as a base for everyday protection, complemented by curtains or blinds for times when complete blackout is desired. Still in doubt? Feel free to get advice from a specialist!

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