Distraction Bands...Can you see them?

Well hopefully you can! Distraction bands are a great way to enjoy an open office plan without having to worry about your Co-Workers walking into the glass. I know it sounds silly, but it really isn’t. While the occasional walking into glass and spilling your drink is funny, once in a while it can result in a serious injury which is not. People have experienced broken noses, and knocked out teeth from something as simple as walking into glass.

Adding some distraction bands is a simple way to solve the problem. They can be a small band of frosted film, or something with a little more depth like the Distraction Bands featured below. Regardless, it’s an addition to your office that should not be avoided.

Distraction Bands are an easy addition with the use of Window Film! Ensure you are working with a qualified reputable dealer. While they look like a simple application, they can be anything but. The bands need to line up straight, and with the narrowness of the design, it takes a skilled eye to install correctly.

Call Solar Vision Inc. today at 303-862-6376!

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Call Solar Vision Inc. today at 303-862-6376! 〰️

Yay!! New Fasara Book!!

Every 2-3 years something magnificent happens! The release of the latest 3M Fasara Films Catalog. We love decorative film at Solar Vision Inc., and when a new Fasara catalog comes out, that means new creative finishes to enhance retail, office, and residential spaces throughout Colorado!

One new product of note is the addition of 3 new 3M Fasara Cloud colors shown below. 3M Fasara Cloud has been a huge hit since it’s introduction in 2017, and 3M has answered the call for more options of this dual gradient film.

There’s much more than just new 3M Cloud Colors. Check out all the designs here, and call Solar Vision Inc. for more information on 3M Fasara Glass Finish Films.

SOLAR VISION CUSTOM GRAPHICS

Solar Vision had the opportunity to work with a company called Blueprint here in Denver. If you haven’t heard of Blueprint, they are a super cool online company that will help you learn to make anything. Think of Pinterest, but without the Pinterest Fail.

Their in house Artist created some awesome designs for their meeting room glass, turning this blank canvas into inspirational graphics that highlight all the artistry they can teach their customers to do.

It wasn’t an easy application, but luckily at Solar Vision, our Graphics Coordinator Alex can create, produce, and install your work. Keeping everything in house from design and production to application, ensures a picture-perfect finish.

Custom Graphic cut from 3M Dusted Crystal

In House Graphics

Did you know that Solar Vision Inc. produces most of our graphics in house? Relocating to our new 6000 SQFT space in Henderson, CO has made it even easier for us to design, produce, and install your business' graphics. 

Send us your ideas, and artwork, and we'll produce a proof for your review. 

Our in-house graphics plotter can turn your concepts and designs into actual artwork for your office or store. 

Our Graphic Artist and Install team can produce what you need in house. Making the turn around on your graphics installation quick, and efficient.

One of many customer ideas designed, produced, and installed by Solar Vision Inc. 

Window Film and Water

Most windows films are applied using a solution of soap and water. The adhesives of window film are on the film. To activate the adhesives they need to be completely soaked with water, making water one of the most important aspects of a good window film installation, well that, and a great Installer.

Because water is so important, Solar Vision Inc. has decided to partner with Culligan Water to ensure we are only using the best water on the market for our window film installations. Our in-shop water filtration system uses reverse osmosis, and softening to ensure the cleanest install possible. 

Water can be different all over town depending on the city you live in. Some cities have very hard water which can leave a haze on your glass, and make the install very difficult, by using purified Culligan water straight from our shop, our installs are consistent, no matter what part of Colorado you are from. 

A good film install starts with a great Installer, the best window film on the market, and Culligan Water. 

This little co-branded contraption is a pressurized water tank used for installing window film. 

This glass is ready for pick up!

Sometimes it just makes more sense for Glaziers to have their glass dropped off so that we can do the film install in our shop. This allows our Installers to control the elements like dust and dirt, while working more efficiently and quickly, which in turn saves our customers $$$. 

The film product featured below is 3M's Black Electrocut. This film is a great solution for hiding walls, and building interiors you do not want viewable from outside. 

Solar Vision Inc. Installer Josh is just finishing up this 3M Black Electrocut Install. 

Custom glass racks make it easier, and safer for us to transport the glass to your trucks. 

3M Daylight Redirecting Film

Imagine using a free resource to light your home or building? Well now you can using 3M Daylight Redirecting Film! Clerestory glass and other high up windows can cause a lot of heat and glare, which results in a nuisance below.  You can reduce the glare by using a typical solar control film, however, if you want to make the most use of your free natural resource you can use 3M Daylight Redirecting Film instead.

3M Daylight Redirecting Film takes the sunlight and guides it to the center of the room, instead of straight down. 

Below is an example of 3M Daylight Redirecting Film at work from start to finish. The pictures were taken at a local Denver bank. The lobby has a beautiful tower with large windows to allow in natural light. Unfortunately that light was causing a lot of glare issues in the lobby for the customers and employees below. After completion the light is now where it should be....up above!! 

Visit our DRF page for more info on this awesome new product by 3M! http://www.coloradosolarvision.com/3m-daylight-redirect/

This is a great photo to highlight what was happening with the light before 3M Daylight Redirecting Film was applied. This was still early in the day, so you can imagine where the sun glare ended up in the afternoon. In the eyes of everyone below! 

These high windows required a scissor lift for the application of 3M Daylight Redirecting Film! This photo highlights the soothing frosted appearance of 3M Daylight Redirecting Film. 

Here's a partial application of 3M Daylight Redirecting Window Film. As you can see the windows on the right are receiving the most sun during this photo, and the light is directed up. 

Here's an unaltered photo of the completed look. The 3M Daylight Redirecting Film has stopped the glare and downward direction of the sun's rays. Now the light is directed to the center of this tower allowing a beautiful glow to illuminate the lobby area of this bank.

White Out Window Film

White Out Window Film can be used instead of Black Out Window Film to completely block out the view.  The film does let in some light.  In this case the film is used to block a door that is no longer used as an entrance.  The white would still be an attractive backdrop for displays and would help gain product display area.  The white out also eliminates glare in the space.  In homes, this film is often used in door sidelights.

White Out Window Film:

• Blocks 99% of vision
• Let's in some light
• Reduces glare and fading of furnishings
• Rejects 99% of UV rays
• Is easy to clean like any other window after 30 days
• Is attractive
• Adds privacy

New Technology in Window Film

New technology in window film makes for a bright future in the business of window film.  Presently, energy saving films and decorative films are hot and that market is continuing to grow as well as new advancements in these films.  Four films have been developed and their use is becoming more present in buildings.  By 2020, it is predicted that these films will be used on a large scale.  (www.technicalwindowfilms.co.uk/window-tinting-news/future-window-films/) The four films are:

• Photochromic film which darkens when exposed to light like transition eyeglasses.
• Smart glass or electrochromatic changes from a clear glass to a frosted glass or a colored glass with an electrical current.  The current is controlled by a switch, a computer, or even a cell phone.  This can add privacy to an office, conference room, etc.  Another example is film applied in a lobby that is controlled by a computer to change to a darker film when the light is bright and then lighter or clear when it gets dark.
• Photovoltaic film converts daylight into electricity.
• Daylighting or Daylight redirecting film allows more light in at the top of the glass and directs it into the room reducing the need for electric lighting.  Presently, a metal shelf can be used for this, but the film is much more attractive and easy to clean.

Solar Vision, Inc is keeping well informed about these new technologies to bring its customers the best available product.

Trends in Commercial Architecture

Trends in commercial architecture include lots of glass. Glass walls are bigger than ever.  Glass walls create lots of opportunities to use natural light and open spaces.  Along with these glass walls, come new innovative uses in design using 3M Fasara frosted and decorative window films.  These films allow in light while adding just the amount of privacy wanted by the inhabitants.  The design elements are limited only by the imagination. (solutions.3m.com) Not only does the decorative films allow light and beauty in these spaces, they also add safety.  The film lets someone know the glass is there and will not be walked into.  In case a window is broken the fragments will hold together.

The glass with film is easy to care for.  It can be cleaned as any other glass after 30 days.  A plus is that finger prints do not readily show.

Frost Film Used for Privacy

Frost film used for privacy on these windows.  Sometimes blackout film is an option.  The frost film lets in natural light while the blackout film blocks all of the light.  These pictures show how the film looks from the inside and from the outside.  The client was very pleased  with the result.

3M Film Uses in Hotels

3M film uses in hotels are many.  Window film can provide energy savings, comfort, and added safety and security.  Architectural films can provide beauty and give the hotel a unique look.  The creative environment is limited only by one's imagination. Safety and Security is enhanced by using a safety and security film to prevent break-ins.  In vulnerable areas, the film will prevent intruders from breaking a glass to get in the building.  Often hotels are in places without a lot of people around, so this would give extra security to a building.  Another way 3M window film can add to security is that if there would be an event such as strong winds, hail, etc. which could break the glass, the glass would hold together and not allow shards of glass to fly and cause injury.  If a hotel is in an area where there is graffiti, anti-graffiti film can be applied to the glass protecting it from paint, acid, scratching.  The film acts as a sacrificial layer which takes the graffiti and can be removed. (solutions.3m.com)

Solar Control can be achieved through 3M Window film.  Glare can be greatly reduced.  Heating and air conditioning costs can be reduced with the application of one of 3M's variety of solar control films.  UV rays are reduced by most films by 99 % eliminating the harmful effects of the UV rays on carpeting, drapes, art, furniture and other furnishings.

Decorative Films can be used in the building to make updated creative environments.  Graphics on film can put any picture on a wall at any size.  Fasara films can be used to add privacy and beauty.  The films can be die-cut or custom printed. Di-Noc can be used to remake surfaces such as pine into teak or paint into marble. There are hundreds of surfaces to choose from.

Solar Vision's Mission Statement is to inspire a passion for and generate living and working environments that are comfortable, safe, energy efficient and innovative.  Let Solar Vision's staff inspire you.

Window Film Uses in Churches

Window film uses in churches add to their beauty, safety, and energy efficiency. There are few things more beautiful than a stained glass window.  The window creates a worshipful environment and help to set the tone in the church building.  Stained glass is very expensive and not all churches have the resources to have them.  Window film can be used in place of stained glass to give the church the atmosphere it wants.  Traditional art can be used or modern art can be used.  Any picture or any graphics can be imprinted on the film and put on the glass at a fraction of the cost of stained glass. The picture can be on one side or both sides.  A picture can be made so that one can see through the glass on one side and have the picture on the other.  Logos and murals can be put up on any flat surface of the church.  Some churches are mixing new art with the more traditional art.  New technology is used to create whatever look the artist imagines.

Bible versus can be used to remind people of messages the church wants to emphasize.

Privacy can be added where it is needed in the church using Fasara frosted film.  So many looks can be achieved through the use of Fasara films. Computer aided design techniques are used to plot and cut the film.(solutions.3m.com)

Solar control window film will cut down on energy costs and if there would be film breakage  because of something like a weather event, the film would hold the glass shards together and prevent injuries.  The film cuts down on glare and protects furnishings from harmful UV rays.

Unfortunately, sometimes churches are targeted by vandals.  Anti-graffiti film can be placed on signage or windows to prevent vandals from ruining the sign or glass.  Safety and security film can be put on glass to prevent break-ins.  Because some of the time no one is in the church, the church may be a target for robberies or vandals.  The films give an extra layer of protection.

The window film is used in retrofitting situations as well as new construction.  It is easy to clean.

Our Solar Vision mission is to inspire a passion for and generate living and working environments that are comfortable, safe, energy efficient and innovative.  If you have any design needs, comfort, and/or security needs in your church, please call Solar Vision.  Our staff will work with you to meet your needs.

DICHROIC 3M Glass Finishes

Dichroic 3M glass finishes is a film that can be applied to glass or some plastics that show an array of color.  The color changes with the light that it is exposed to, the color of the surface it is applied to, and the angle it is viewed from.  This amazing film creates unique effects in whatever environment it is used in. (http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/architectural-markets/home/glass-finishes/dichroic/) Dichroic 3M glass finishes are mostly used in commercial buildings, but can also be used in a home for a unique effect.  The look can be obtained by purchasing dichroic glass, but using film is a much more cost effective solution.  The application of it is also much  less expensive than installing the glass.

Dichroic film  'plays' with light, reflecting and bouncing it to reveal a natural color spectrum.

Dichroic film is:

• a visible color shift from both sides of the film-covered glass.
• applicable for glass and many plastics.
• available in warm and cool colors.
• made of premium grade multi-layer polyester.
• non-metallic, non-conductive and non-corrosive.

Colors:

• The Chill shift in cool tones-blue, magenta, yellow and  gold/blue color regions
• The Blaze are in warm tones

  

  

The film needs to be applied in an area where it will not receive abrasions.  A clear laminate protection is recommended.

3M Fasara San Marino Film

3M Fasara Milky Milky (San Marino) Film SHMAMM (solutions.3m.com) was used on this restaurant in the newly renovated Union Station in downtown Denver.  San Marino film can add privacy or in this case a decorative accent.  The film on the glass gives just the right touch to add to the ambiance of the restaurant. 3M Fasara Glass Finishes come in 50+ designs.  Fasara provides the advantages of etched, sandblasted and textured glass at a fraction of the cost.  When styles change or occupants change, the film can be removed.  The window can remain plain or a new type of design can be applied to the window.  This can be done at a much smaller cost than replacing  windows.

Benefits Include:

• Beauty of the glass is enhanced by transforming plain glass into the look of cut or textured glass.
• The amount of privacy provided can be tailored to the clients needs.
• The film is easily applied and is beautiful and durable.
• The film is constructed of durable and flexible polyester.
• The glass can be cleaned like any other window after 30 days.

  

Die-Cut Decorative Film

Solar Vision applies a lot of Die-Cut Decorative Film.  The film is applied in new construction sites as well as sites that are remodeled.  Most of the film we use is 3M Fasara Film.  The 3M Fasara is easy to work with and gives excellent results. Occasionally, we do apply other brands.  It all depends on the contractor, decorator, or owner.  Decorative film is used in place of etched or sandblasted glass because the expense is much less.  Also if styles change or a new company moves in the film can be professionally removed and replaced. Decorative Film Provides:

• Privacy in offices or conference rooms.
• Light from outside can still filter to other parts of the room.  People are more productive in natural light.
• If their would be a natural or other physical event, the glass would be held together and there would not be flying shards of glass.
• The decorative film creates a modern look and adds to the ambiance of the building
• Consistent look throughout the building
• Branding of company is established through out the area
• Money savings
• A creative environment is established which draws customers and increased employee productivity and satisfaction.

  

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Window Film Products

There are many window film products.  The technology to create these new films is continuing to advance.  We can look forward to many new uses for window film to save energy and to improve safety.  The way we use window film to create beautiful working and living environments will continue to improve.  I'm sure my list is not complete, but here is a good start to what is available in the window film industry. Anti-Fog Window Film is a film that is used in areas of high humidity. The glass does not fog.

Anti-Graffiti Window Film is used as a sacrificial layer when vandals use acid, permanent markers, paint, etc. The film is removed and replaced and protects the glass.

Anti-Spy Window Film protects computer information from hackers or communication from being overhead by listening devices.

Blackout Window Film is film that blocks almost all light.  It is used in places like sports viewing rooms or to completely block a view.

Bomb Blast Protection Window Film is used in buildings where there may be a risk of an explosion or terrorist attack.. The film holds the glass fragments together and greatly reduces injury. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqUjGNmh0zg)

Bullet Proof Window Film prevents or slows the ability of a bullet to penetrate the glass.

Daylight Redirecting Window Film controls the light coming into a room, directs the light to the ceiling and down into the room, reducing the amount of artificial light needed in a room.

Decorative Window Film is used to provide privacy and beauty to a room. It comes in patterns and a number of degrees of frost. It can be die-cut to do branding or almost any custom design.

Dichroic Window Film has a shimmering color shifting effect. It comes in warm and cool colors. The cool have a range of purple and blues and the warm yellow to red.

Exterior Window Film is film applied to the outside of the window when it is very difficult or impossible to apply it to the inside.

High Impact Rear Projection Film is film that transforms any window or glass partition into a digital display screen.  It can be any shape or size.  (multimedia.3m.com/mws/.fn=PROJECTION%20COMBINED.pdf)

Gradiant Window Film starts with frost on the bottom and gradually goes to clear. It can also have a color on bottom and go to clear on the top.

Graphic Window Film has any picture printed on it and at any size.  The picture can be seen on one side and a clear window on the other.

One Way Mirrored Film has a mirrored surface and one can be see through from the other side undetected.

Photovoltaics Window Film has tiny solar cells to convert sunlight into direct current electricity.

Reflective Window Film has a metallic look.

Smart or Switchable Window Film changes from frosted to clear when it is turned on or off.

Safety and Security Window Film prevents intruders from getting into a building easily. Also comes with attachments to increase effectiveness.

Solar Control Window Film is the most common window film. It is used to reduce glare, eliminate UV Rays, protect furnishing, increase comfort, and provide energy savings. There is a wide range of this film.  (solutions.3m.com)

View Controlled Window Film is a film that controls what is seen through the glass. There are 3 different view control films that offer 2 angles of view. The product is applied vertically or horizontally giving a different view. This can accent one space over another. This product is put out by Lumisty.

Most of these products are offered by 3M.  Other brands also carry some of these window film products.  Solar Vision is a dealer for the 3M Prestige line.  We know that the 3M company stands behind all their products.  The reputation of the 3M company is unsurpassed. We are, however, able to install other brands as well.

Linen 3M Fasara Film

Linen  3M Fasara Film was applied to glass pieces and shipped to the Ritz Carlton in St. Thomas.  The film has a texture of white coarsely woven linen.  Linen SH2FGLN gives a soft, natural look.  The film was applied to the glass and then covered with another sandwiching it in between the 2 pieces of glass.  This type of glass can be bought with real linen but is extremely costly.  The film gives the glass the same look.

The Linen Fasara Film is one of more than 50 types of Fasara Film.  It resembles Japanese Rice Paper.  The film combines eastern design and today's technology to create a tranquil and very classy modern look.  The Fabric Japanese Rice Paper family of 3M Window film has patterns with the look and feel of fabric or Japanese Rice Paper.  They have the look of etched, cut, textured or sandblasted glass at a fraction of the cost. The film is used in most cases on glass already present.  Glass does not have to be removed and replaced with a custom glass.  They also give privacy and light still enters the room.  The films provide UV protection as well filtering out more than 99 percent of the UV Rays.

Decorator Uses:

• Glass partitions
• Window panes
• Can be die cut
• Can be used on whole glass partition or customized
• Use limited only by imagination
• Used as an interior film only

Fasara 3M Films should be installed by professionals.  When they are applied, they are Considered permanent solutions.  When designs needs change, they can be removed and replaced.

This decorative film offers:

• Easy cleaning
• Privacy or can hide places less attractive
• Reduces fading from UV
• Protects occupants from broken or flying glass
• Is cost effective
• Gives the working or living space an element of design and uniqueness

Visit with our Solar Vision specialists to let us help you bring your design vision to a reality.

School Safety Improvement

School safety is an ever growing concern for schools. As a teacher of 34 years, I have seen a number of ways window films can be effectively used to improve school safety. The window film is retrofitted into already existing buildings which is much less expensive than replacing windows. Applying the film creates no mess and the windows are easily cleaned. Safety

Accidents involving glass account for a large percent of injuries in schools. Large areas of glass may not be seen by students and they may run into them. It is important to make the glass more visible. This can be done by applying opaque film or simple patterned film to the glass such as Fasara (http://solutions.3m.com/ ) It is important to make it apparent that the glass is there. The film can cover all or a portion of the glass. Every window or other transparent surface in a wall, partition and door or gate should be of safety material or be protected against breakage of the transparent material. It should be appropriately marked or have something to make it apparent. Film around door handles also help make the glass visible. Graphics can be used to make the glass more visible. The film can add to the learning environment and make it very creative and appealing. Graphics can be used to increase school spirit or motivate achievement in students and staff. Any picture or logo can be printed on the film.

Safety glass is required in high risk areas. Window film will hold the glass in place if someone runs into the glass. Tempered or toughened glass breaks into squares. Tempered glass may be defective because of manufacturing flaws. Impurities can get into the glass. Sometimes during installation small chips may occur. As the glass expands stresses will develop which may break the glass. When the stress is greater than the strength of the glass it will break. Window film on tempered glass assures that no one will be cut by the glass. Clean up is also very easy.

Glass should be:

•  Safe from breakage
•  Visible to avoid accidental collision

Safety can also be increased during weather events with window film. With straight line winds or a tornado most injuries are caused by flying glass. The window film holds the glass shards together. People in the building will not get cut by flying glass.

Security

Unfortunately, we live in a world where we need to keep unwanted intruders out of our schools and away from our children. As a teacher in a rural public high school, quite often we had bomb threats. Real or just a stupid prank, the school officials had to take it seriously. We would have to be moved to another school or a nearby church until the building was secure. If the threat had been real and there had been an explosion, bomb blast window film would prevent glass shards from entering the rooms and injuring students. 90% of all injuries from bombs is caused by flying glass. Even a small piece of glass can injure someone.

If a gun was rumored to be in the school or if there was a tip of a threat, then the school goes into lock down. All the classroom doors are locked until the threat has passed. Schools now have all outer doors locked. One generally has to be let into the school by someone in the office. If a person comes to the door shooting or begins shooting after entering, there is bulletproof window film. The film is expected to delay an active shooter from entering a school from three seconds to two minutes.

Security window film with an attachment will prevent entrance into the building.  A person using something like a baseball bat or crowbar, will be disappointed. Chances are the person will move on. A determined person still may get into the building, but his entry will slowed to the point that the police will have an opportunity to arrive on the scene.  The security film helps to prevent break-ins for theft or vandalism.  Solar Vision has applied 3M™ Safety and Security Window Film to several  school entrances as a test sites for other schools. 3M™ Safety and Security Film is being used in an increasing number of schools. 3M recommends using the Ultra Series S600 or the Safety Series S140. Impact Protection Attachment Systems bond the filmed window to the frame optimizing security. (http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/Window_Film/Solutions/Support/Safety_and_Security_Window_Films)

At a 2014 Campus Safety Conference held at the University of Southern California , Brad Spicer, SafePlans CEO, outlined strategies to improve the safety of main entrances. One thing he recommended was having shatter resistant security window film applied on the doors and windows to make it harder for intruders to enter the building.. (http://www.campussafetymagazine.com/article/physical_securitys_role_in_a_k_12_environment)

Why use security Film in Schools:

•  Security film is less expensive than replacing all windows and doors with laminated glass.
•  The security film is easy to apply over existing glazing
•  The film doesn't stop a determined individual from entering a building, but gives extra time for help to arrive.

Anti-Graffiti

Why do kids do graffiti??? It is such a waste and such a problem in schools. Anti-Graffiti film can be applied to windows. The film acts as a sacrificial layer. The acid, paint or permanant marker is on the film. The film then can be removed and reapplied. Doing this quickly keeps from giving the vandals the attention they seek. The film can be applied to bathroom mirrors and outdoor signs as well.

Clean Filmed Windows

Clean filmed windows is an easy process.  You basically clean it as you would any window after 30 days. What to expect:

• Window film takes a period of up to 30 days to dry and cure.
• There may be a haze which will cause a visual distortion.
• There may be small water beads or bubbles.
• This is normal.  The haze or bubbles will disappear in a few days as the window film dries and cures.  The water used in installation needs to evaporate through the film during the curing process.
• Cold weather may lengthen the time while warm weather will shorten the time.
• Security films are thicker and take longer to dry.

Note:  The film may cure less than 30 days.  To be on the safe side to clean filmed windows, wait the 30 days.

What to use to clean your filmed windows:

• A soft cloth or clean synthetic sponge is recommended to clean filmed windows.
• To dry them use a soft cloth, paper towel or soft squeegee.
• Most glass cleaners work well.
• A good cleaning solution is 1/2 ounce of dish soap or baby shampoo in about a quart of water.  This is about one or two drops in a spray bottle.  You do not need much soap.

What to avoid:

• The film has a scratch resistant coating not a scratch proof coating, so never use any abrasive material on the window.
• Coarse paper towels may leave fine scratches on the film
• Do not use abrasive cleaners or abrasive sponges.
• Do not use cleaning materials that are contaminated with dirt.  This might happen if you clean outside the windows and then use the same sponge to clean the inside filmed window.
• Do not use industrial strength cleaners.
• Do not use cleaning tools that may scratch the film, such as hard squeegees.
• Products containing ammonia can be used but not in large quantities or often.

If you ever have any question about caring for your window film, please ask your installers or give Solar Vision a call.  We will happily give you the information you need.