For every building owner, the safety of their tenants is fundamental; in fact, the International Building Code, or the IBC for short, makes it clear that specific requirements need to be met to protect occupants.
One potential hazard every building has are windows and other glass surfaces, such as glass doors and partitions. Therefore, it’s imperative that all glass surfaces in buildings need to meet safety glazing requirements.
Replacing a building’s glass surfaces with those that meet building code requirements can be both expensive and time-consuming. That’s why safety glazing window film could be a more cost-effective alternative.
Not only is safety glazing window film cheaper to install, but it can also add an extra level of protection to the building’s glass surfaces while meeting building codes.
The window film glazing will still need international building code requirements, however, so here is a guide on what you need to know about using glazing window film to meet the international building codes.
Why use safety glazing window film for meeting building codes?
Here’s why you should consider using safety glazing film to meet building codes:
Ease of installation
Replacing an entire pane of glass isn’t just expensive, it’ll also take too much time. This is where safety gazing film shines.
Safety glazing film installation is simple; it only needs to be applied to your home’s existing window glass, albeit with some precision. Also, these window film comes with the added benefit of reinforcing the glass and filtering harsh sunlight and eliminating glare.
Installing window film requires a lot of skill, so it’s best to call a professional window film installer to take on the job.
Return on investment
Building owners can expect a good return on investment, sometimes in as little as three years. This isn’t just because installation is cheap, but also because window film can help maintain indoor temperatures.
By helping to keep a building’s interior cool, building occupants will be less reliant on using climate control systems, and this can help drive down electricity costs and, even maintenance costs for cooling systems.
No wastage
Replacing window glass just to meet building codes can be very wasteful, and it can have a negative impact on the environment. By installing window film, you can continue using the building’s existing glass while still meeting the codes.
Little to no aesthetic impact
Naturally, aesthetics are important for building owners, and windows are a big part of what makes a building look appealing. But building owners can choose safety glazing film with tints that complement their space, or even enhance its overall appearance.
Alternatively, you can choose a very lightly tinted film that is very subtle and still makes your windows appear transparent.
Where is safety glazing required?
These are parts of a building that will require safety glazing:
- Doors
- Glass adjacent to doors
- Glass in windows
- Glass on railings and guards
- Glass in areas with water
- Glass adjacent to ramps and stairways
- Glass at the bottom of a stairway landing
Installing safety glazing film in these parts of a building can ensure maximum safety for its occupants.
Work with window film experts
Not only is installing safety glazing window film an easy way to meet building codes,
This type of window film is a simple way to meet building codes without spending a large amount of money on installing entire glass panes. However, installing the window film yourself, precisely according to the code may be difficult to do—this is where the professionals come in.
Professional window film installers have extensive knowledge of building codes and will know exactly where the film will need to be installed to ensure your building complies with these codes.
Speak with a professional window film installer today and make your building safer and compliant with building codes.
