A Brief History of Security Film on Windows

Today, safety and security window films are a staple of security strategies worldwide. Homes, businesses, schools, and even government facilities all look to this durable technology for protection against forced entry and broken glass.

With how far we’ve come, it’s easy to forget exactly where this technology came from. As your trusted resource for all things window film, U.S. Film Crew is here to provide the information that you need. In this post, we’ll take a look back on the history of security window film and how it’s evolved into the effective tool that keeps us safer today.

Early Beginnings: The 1960s

In a certain sense, humans have been using security film on glass as early as 1919, when Henry Ford released the first laminated windshield. Even still, the idea of security window film as we know it today — the kind that protects our buildings rather than our vehicles — wouldn’t begin to take hold for almost another fifty years.

The popular concept of window film began in the mid-20th century when the demand for better heat rejection and UV resistance reached its peak. In 1966, Minnesota Mining & Manufacturing Co., better known today as 3M, took the first few bold steps. 3M’s labs developed the first metallic solar control film — a product that kickstarted the industry by more effectively reducing heat, glare, and UV light. 

Just three years later, in 1969, 3M pioneered yet another innovation: a thicker, stronger film designed to hold glass together. The first clear security film was born, and the industry would never be the same.

Demand & Innovation: 1970s – 2000s

Throughout the 1970s, security window film went global. In response to terrorist attacks across Europe, the British government began to apply security film on windows in crucial buildings, all the while developing the technology toward superior blast resistance. 

Throughout the 80s and 90s, one technological advancement after another created more sophisticated security window films, often in response to public demand for better safety measures. Manufacturers began to experiment with more advanced adhesives and multi-layer polyester constructions — a trend that would continue into the modern day.

After the tragic events of September 11, 2001, virtually all corners of American industry saw a skyrocket in demand for security, and the realm of window treatment was no exception. This timeframe saw a surge in applications of security film on windows of government facilities, embassies, and public offices — and with it, an explosion of innovation to meet the demands of new governmental security standards.

Modern Advancements: 2010s – Present

Today, security window films are a worldwide phenomenon, protecting government buildings, schools, and even homes on multiple continents. Modern technology has made security window film a powerful front line against explosions, extreme weather, burglary, terrorism, and so much more. 

Even after more than half a century, 3M still leads the charge in the innovation of new security window film technology. In 2024, the brand released the new 3M Scotchshield Security Window Film S2400 series — the first film of its kind to boast an unprecedented 24-mil thickness. As manufacturers and installers continue to forge new technology and techniques, the future of security window film looks brighter than ever.

U.S. Film Crew: Your Resource for Advanced Security Films

When we consider the full scope of our history, it’s clear to see that the industry’s journey into security window film has only just begun. Even today, leading manufacturers are producing new and imaginative ways to bolster our security with cutting-edge technology. Here at U.S. Film Crew, we’re proud to supply you with every innovation our industry has to offer.

We’ve installed dependable security window film across high-profile buildings and government compounds all across the United States, helping to secure the facilities of the FBI, CIA, and even major corporations like Google. When you need a team you trust to secure your windows, you’ll find it in U.S. Film Crew.

Invest in modern security. Contact U.S. Film Crew today.