Security is a high priority for most commercial property owners, but not all businesses or commercial facilities have the budgets required to install the types of forced entry-resistant security glazing that can stop would-be intruders dead in their tracks.
When looking for more affordable security upgrades, many property owners may come across security window film as a potential solution for forced entry mitigation, but does window security film really work to deter forced entry?
How Does Window Security Film Really Work? Is It an Effective Forced Entry Deterrent?
Security window film is a thick, durable polyester-based film that is applied directly to the interior surface of commercial windows and glass doors.
Unlike standard window film, which is often used for tinting, privacy, UV protection, and decorative purposes, security window film is engineered to provide additional strength to the glass.
It’s important to note that security window film does not prevent the glass it’s applied to from breaking, but rather holds the glass fragments in place when the window is broken, which can significantly delay and deter intruders.
If a would-be intruder attempts to break through a window protected by security film during a forced entry attempt, it will take them longer to penetrate it, delaying their entry by preventing the window from simply shattering into a bunch of loose fragments.
Instead, the broken pieces of glass remain adhered to the film, creating a web-like structure. Intruders must then spend additional time trying to penetrate this barrier. The increased difficulty of forced entry can deter some criminals, causing them to abandon their break-in attempts and move on to look for easier targets.
Additionally, attempting to force entry through a window protected by security film is noisier than breaking untreated glass. The sound of repeated attempts to breach the glass can attract attention, potentially alerting security personnel or passersby and increasing the likelihood that the intruder will abandon their efforts.
How Does Window Security Film Really Work in Real-World Scenarios?
In order to understand how security window film might work to delay and deter forced entry in real life, let’s look at three hypothetical applications and scenarios:
- Retail Stores
- Office Buildings
- Warehouses
Retail Stores
A burglar attempts to smash a storefront window to grab high-value items quickly. Upon impact, the glass cracks, but remains intact due to the security film. The burglar realizes that gaining entry will take much longer than anticipated and decides to flee to avoid getting caught.
Office Buildings
During a break-in attempt, an intruder tries to break a glass door to unlock it from the inside. The security film holds the broken glass in place, preventing the intruder from reaching through and accessing the lock. Frustrated and short on time, the intruder leaves the scene.
Warehouses
Vandals attempt to cause damage by breaking windows. The security film prevents the glass from shattering completely, minimizing the extent of the damage and making cleanup easier and less costly.
Benefits of Security Window Film for Commercial Properties
Security window film offers several advantages for commercial properties, making it a worthwhile choice for boosting security with a minimal investment:
- Cost-Effective Security Upgrade
- Preservation of Aesthetics
- Complementary to Other Security Measures
- Protection Against Accidents and Natural Disasters
Cost-Effective Security Upgrade
Compared to other security measures, such as installing bars and grates or retrofitting security glass, security window film is relatively affordable. It provides an added layer of protection without the need for extensive renovations or alterations.
Preservation of Aesthetics
Security window film is virtually invisible once applied. It doesn’t alter the appearance of windows or glass doors, preserving the building’s aesthetic appeal while boosting security.
Complementary to Other Security Measures
Security window film can be used in conjunction with other security measures, such as alarm systems, surveillance cameras, and security personnel. It adds an extra layer of defense that can help slow down intruders and give other security systems more time to respond.
Protection Against Accidents and Natural Disasters
In addition to deterring intruders, security window film also helps protect against accidental impacts and natural disasters. During storms or earthquakes, the film can prevent shattered glass from causing injury or additional damage.
How Window Security Film Installation and Maintenance Works
Professional installation is always recommended for security window film to ensure optimal performance. Trained installers will properly clean the glass surface, apply the film without air bubbles or wrinkles, and trim it to fit perfectly. This ensures that the film adheres correctly and provides maximum protection.
Once installed, security window film requires minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning with non-abrasive solutions will keep the film and the windows looking crystal-clear and clean. The durability of the film means it can last for many years without needing replacement, providing long-term value and security.
Conclusion
When it comes to commercial window security, it’s not always possible to install the most advanced security glazing and technologies to prevent forced entry.
Security window film is an excellent choice for businesses looking to complement their security measures without undertaking a bigger glazing retrofit project. By reinforcing windows and glass doors, security window film makes forced entry more difficult and time-consuming, effectively deterring and delaying would-be intruders.
While it doesn’t prevent the glass from breaking entirely, security window film’s ability to hold shattered glass in place creates a more significant barrier that intruders must overcome. The delay to entry the film creates can be a decisive factor in deterring burglary attempts, as criminals prefer targets that are quick and easy to gain entry to.
At Campbell Glass and Films, we are authorized dealers and installers of 3M safety and security window films and Riot Glass window security film laminates. Contact us today to discuss your options and get a free estimate.
