Two popular window films are anti-glare film and safety window film. Both provide useful benefits, but which one is the better choice for your needs? This comprehensive guide examines the key differences between anti-glare and safety window films to help you decide.

We'll compare the purposes, costs, durability, appearance, installation, and performance of each type of window tint. By the end, you'll know to select the right window film for your home or business.

Anti-Glare Window Film Overview

What is an Anti-Glare Window Film?

Anti-glare window film, also called anti-reflective film, reduces light reflection and glare on glass surfaces. Its matte finish scatters and absorbs light rather than reflecting it back.

This type of window tint is ideal for reducing eye strain and glare problems during daytime hours. It blocks UV rays and keeps interior spaces comfortable without heavily tinting or darkening windows.

Benefits of Anti-Glare Film

  • Reduces glare from sunlight, bright skies, and artificial lights
  • Minimizes eyestrain headaches and fatigue
  • Makes computer and TV screens easier to view
  • Provides moderate heat reduction
  • Available in various tint levels from light to darker shades
  • It can be applied to existing glass without needing replacement

Drawbacks of Anti-Glare Film

  • Does not improve privacy or security
  • Less effective at blocking heat and UV rays than darker films
  • Can produce visible tint and coloration on glass
  • Not designed for safety/security purposes

Durability of Anti-Glare Film

Quality anti-glare window films last 5 to 15 years before needing replacement. Durability depends on the quality of materials and proper installation.

Lower-end films may bubble, peel, crack, or fade faster, especially with sun exposure. High temperatures can accelerate deterioration. Proper care and maintenance is required.

Safety Window Film Overview

What is a Safety Window Film?

Safety window films are thicker, stronger films designed to hold glass fragments together in the event of breakage. The durable polyester layers keep shattered glass attached to the film, preventing dangerous shards from falling and causing injury.

These films also provide security benefits by delaying entry, resisting forced entry attempts, and helping deter smash-and-grab crimes. They filter UV rays and can strengthen windows against storm debris impacts.

Benefits of Safety Window Films

  • Holds broken glass together to prevent injuries
  • Enhances security by deterring forced entry
  • Keeps out UV rays that damage interiors
  • Makes windows more impact-resistant
  • Delays access for intruders trying to enter
  • Available in a range of thicknesses for desired security level

Drawbacks of Safety Films

  • More expensive than basic tints
  • Must be professionally installed for safety properties to work
  • Can alter visibility and views through glass
  • Darker films are more noticeable from exterior and interior

Durability of Safety Window Films

Properly installed safety window films last 10 to 20 years or more. Their durability comes from thick polyester layers bonded by a strong acrylic adhesive. Quality films resist bubbling, cracking, and peeling and hold up well to the sun, weather, and daily use.

Key Differences Between Anti-Glare and Safety Films

Now that we've reviewed the basics of each type let's compare them across some key factors:

Glare Reduction

Anti-glare film is specifically designed to reduce annoying glare. It uses light scattering technology for significantly less reflectivity than untreated glass or darker tints.

Safety film blocks some glare through tinting, but its primary focus is glass retention and security rather than eliminating reflections. An anti-glare product would be better for noticeable glare reduction.

Sun Protection

Anti-glare films moderately filter UV rays that damage interiors. Lighter versions block 20-50% of UV rays, while darker ones filter over 90%.

Safety tints are more effective at blocking UV rays, filtering 99% or higher. Their thicker construction and darker shades keep out more of the sun's damaging ultraviolet radiation.

Privacy and Security

Anti-glare films do not enhance privacy or security. Light diffusion may slightly obstruct views in/out but does not prevent window breakage.

Safety films greatly improve security and privacy. Thicker films make it harder for intruders to break windows and enter while reducing visibility. When professionally installed, most qualify for safety ratings.

Appearance

Anti-glare film maintains the clearest view and barely alters the look of windows. Available in tint levels from nearly clear to light smoke, it produces minimal exterior color change.

Safety tint ranges from light to quite dark. It more noticeably tints windows and creates an exterior mirror-like look. Darker shades obstruct views noticeably. Internal appearance changes are moderate to significant.

Impact Resistance

Because the anti-glare film is so thin, it does not strengthen glass or make it more impact-resistant. Windows remain prone to breakage.

Safety film protects against breakage by absorbing shocks and impacts. Thicker films meet standards for impact resistance from debris, storms, blunt force, and sometimes even bullets.

Glass Fragmentation

Anti-glare film does nothing to hold broken glass in place. Upon breaking, shards still pose a major laceration and injury risk.

Safety film contains glass fragments when the window breaks due to strong interlayer bonding. This prevents most shards from falling out and causing harm.

Installation and Replacement

Anti-glare film is easier and cheaper to apply DIY. However, for best performance, professional installation is recommended. Replacement is needed every 5-15 years.

Safety film absolutely requires professional installation to provide security and safety benefits as advertised. Expect a long service life of 10-20 years or more before replacement is needed.

Performance Standards

Anti-glare film does not have any official certification or safety/security standards. Performance varies based on product quality and proper application.

Safety film must meet strict industry standards to achieve safety ratings for glass retention, impact resistance, forced entry delay, etc. Look for films tested to meet ANSI, SGCC, ASTM, or UL standards.

Name: Tinting Express Limited

Address: Unit 17, Taw Mill Business Park, Howard Avenue, Barnstaple, Devon, UK

Phone No: 1271 320181