Flat Stanley Visits Solar Vision

Flat Stanley visited Solar Vision this week from Lafayette, Tennessee.  Flat Stanley is an elementary school project.  An avatar of a student visits different places around the country. Pictures are taken of him. The students find out what life is like in that part of the country.  Flat Stanley visited Denver and one day he job shadowed the guys at Solar Vision.  He found that when they arrive they check the job board, gather the materials they need, and organize them in the truck.  Then they are off to the jobs.  Sometimes they have one big job and sometimes they go to different locations.  This particular day they applied film to a home, a small business, and a hospital.  

3M Window Film Saves Art Studio

3M Window Film saves art studio located on an Iowa historical farm.  When straight line winds hit the farm house, the windows in the art studio located in the southeast corner of the home cracked.  The windows, however, held together because of the window film.  If the rain had gotten in the house, precious art work which could not be replaced and expensive art supplies would have been lost.  The window also stayed in place for a period of time until the window could be replaced.  Injury and damage due to flying shards of glass was eliminated. The owner is an artist and interior decorator.  She knew that her antiques, furnishings and artwork was being protected everyday from the harmful effects of UV Rays by the window film applied to all windows of the house.  The film also reduced glare and provided privacy.  The windows did not have to be covered with drapes.  The beautiful landscape of this home was not diminished by blinds or other window coverings.  She was also able to use less energy in cooling her home. The window film provides extra insulation to the windows. For example, if you have single-paned window, the film would make the window perform like a double-paned window.

The owner is so thankful she had the window film applied to her windows.  The loss due the weather event would have been great.  Insurance can't replace property with sentimental value or creative property.

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.

Solar Vision Shop

Most of our installations are done on site, but some are done in the Solar Vision Shop.  The shop is immaculately clean and organized to handle almost any job. This particular job was set up for an Architectural Concepts project. (www.archconceptsllc.com)  Architectural Concepts is a innovation solutions company.  They take whatever idea a designer, architect, developer, owner etc. has and makes it happen.  They are a manufacturers, distributors, and installers.  They complete the big part of the project down to the smallest detail.

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 Comfort and Window Film

School classrooms that are  comfortable are more conducive to learning.  The first consideration for window film is school safety. (See previous article)  Window film can be used in a number of ways to improve school comfort, make learning easier, and save energy as well. Comfort and Energy Savings

During my 34 years of teaching, I have been in a number of buildings.  All of those buildings have had hot spots.  There are rooms where the sunlight coming into the room is unbearable during certain parts of the day. It is distracting to be in a classroom that is overly hot. To keep those rooms at a temperature that is somewhat comfortable, the air conditioning has to be turned up. Many of the rooms in the school are then too cold and students need their sweaters or just shiver.  A hot room does not help students concentrate on their studies nor does a cold one. More schools are going to a year round schedule, so they have to deal with even more summer heat.  Solar Control Window film applied to classroom windows reduce the heat entering the room.  Not having to lower the thermostat, saves energy.  In winter, the film acts as an extra insulator on the window.  Savings is realized in the winter also.  The US Department of Energy says a third of a building's cooling comes from solar gain through the windows.  Window film will make the windows more efficient.  (http://solutions.3m.com/)

Window film also eliminates glare on whiteboards.  The film protects occupants from harmful UV rays which can cause skin cancer.  Some rooms may require a combination of window film and blinds.  When the blinds do not have to be closed, natural light enters the classroom.  Students learn better in natural light. Eyes get less tired.

We know that students learn better in natural light.  Attendance and behavior is also improved. (http://www.healthyschools.org/Daylight.pdf) Window film still allows natural light.  A new 3M Window Film is 3M Daylight Redirecting Film.  If you have just the right space, the film brings in more light at the top of the window and redirects it to the room.  This lessens the need for artificial light.

Mirrors or Perforated Graphics

I worked in some areas where we took data on the behavior of students.  Graphics or mirrors can be put on  the window to observe students undetected.  The graphics are made with tiny dots. On one side you see a picture.  On the other side you can see through.  A mirrored film can be put on a window and from the other side observations can be made.  This could work well when the dean's office has a window to the cafeteria.  The possibilities are endless in the school.

Smart or Switchable Film

A smart film can be turned on and off.  When it is on the film is frosted.  When it is off the window is clear.  Think of the many uses for offices like the principal's office. He/She can see what is going on when it is off and can have privacy when he needs it for conferences with parents, teachers, students, etc.

Sports Viewing Rooms

Black out film can be used in athletic viewing rooms to eliminate screen glare.  Solar Vision has installed this at a number of colleges and universities.

Anti-Bacterial

A film that is not a window film, but is an architectural film is Di-Noc.  Some Di-Noc contains silver which cuts down on the growth of bacteria.  In areas, such as the nurses office and preschool classrooms, the film applied to smooth walls may help reduce the spread of germs.

Solar Vision can do a study of how window film can save energy and help you plan ways to use window and architectural films in your school.  If you would like a study done, give us a call at 303-862-6376 or e-mail us at info@coloradosolarvision.com.

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.

Hallmark Stores Remodel Using Di-Noc

Hallmark stores remodel with Di-Noc.  Hallmark stores are a national account held by Solar Vision. Before remodeling the look was dark.  After it is light and updated.

Di-Noc is an architectural finish that has many uses.  It takes the place of natural  and hi-tech finishes.  It  is considered to be a "Designer's Dream."  There are now over 700 different finishes.  Di-Noc reproduces wood, metal, marble, leather, stone, stucco and more.  If another surface is desired, it can be specially ordered.

The properties of Di-Noc include:

• resistance to water, dirt, impacts, wear, abrasion and mold
• no mess application-no dust, fumes, etc. resulting in no down time for workers
• applied to flat and curved surfaces
• easily cleaned
• can be computer cut
• flame retardant
• some have antibacterial properties
• architectural freedom and design

Di-Noc helps create green buildings by using materials that already exist and reuse them. ( http://multimedia.3m.com) Walls, desks, etc. can be reused creating less land fill and saving company resources.  It  is less expensive than replacing the covered areas. If Di-Noc is applied during off hours, the workers or customers leave and return to a place where the space with the Di-Noc has been transformed.  There is no dust to clean up and there are no fumes.  Di-Noc can be used in the interior or the exterior of a building.  This architectural finish is primarily used for commercial applications.  It also can be used by residential customers. Some Di-Noc is specified for use outdoor.  Some is specified for use in wet areas such as bathrooms.

Solar Vision does installations for clients with multiple buildings spread across the United States. The Hallmark stores are one of those clients. Doing business with us makes it easy to get the film you need installed and to have it be consistent throughout the US. Procuring through one company means: ⦁ Consistent quality and workmanship ⦁ Best pricing available ⦁ The same look can be achieved for each of your sites. ⦁ Communicate with one person ⦁ Time saving Solar Vision has a proven track record completing projects for Hallmark and Sports Authority stores throughout the states.

National Accounts

National Accounts across the United States have given our installers opportunities to see many things. In Philadelphia, they got to see the place that the movie "Rocky" made famous. They've been to Washington D.C. and drove down the Oregon coast from one job to the next. On a lonely road in Savannah, they came upon a crossroad with hundreds of cats. The cats were in trees and on the street everywhere. They have listened to the blues and country music in Virginia and Louisville. The song "I've Been Everywhere" by Geoff Mack and made popular by Johnny Cash seems appropriate to their experience. (They did travel by plane though.)

I've Been Everywhere by Geoff Mack I was totin' my pack along the dusty Winnemucca road, When along came a semi with a high an' canvas-covered load. "If you're goin' to Winnemucca, Mack, with me you can ride." And so I climbed into the cab and then I settled down inside. He asked me if I'd seen a road with so much dust and sand. And I said, "Listen, I've traveled every road in this here land!"

[Chorus:] I've been everywhere, man. I've been everywhere, man. Crossed the desert's bare, man. I've breathed the mountain air, man. Of travel I've had my share, man. I've been everywhere.

I've been to: Boston, Charleston, Dayton, Louisiana, Washington, Houston, Philadelphia, Portlandia, Louisville, Nashville, Knoxville, Minnesota, Glen Rock, Black Rock, Little Rock, Oskaloosa, Tennessee to Davenport, Spirit Lake, Grand Lake, Devils Lake, Salt Lake, for Pete's sake.

Solar Vision carries national accounts. The team travels all over the United States. Solar Vision does installations for clients with multiple buildings spread across the United States. Doing business with us makes it easy to get the film you need installed and to have it be consistent throughout the US. In situations where union membership is required, Solar Vision acquires local installers for the job. Solar Vision makes all the arrangements and still assures the quality of the work. This past month teams have been in New Hampshire and Daytona Beach, Florida. Procuring through one company means: ⦁ Consistent quality and workmanship ⦁ Best pricing available ⦁ The same look can be achieved for each of your sites. ⦁ Communicate with one person ⦁ Time saving Solar Vision has a proven track record completing projects for Hallmark and Sports Authority stores throughout the states.

Pilates Offered

A pilates class is being offered at Solar Vision for employees and their families on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:00-12:00.  Join us in getting healthier.

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.

3M Fasara Decorative/Privacy Film Application

3M Fasara Decorative/Privacy Film adds privacy to this work space.  It is a good way to reduce distractions in the workplace. The 3M Fasara Film also lets in natural light reducing the need for extra lighthing.  See the difference the film makes to these windows.

Fasara Film comes in 59 different designs.  They take the place of textured, sandblasted, etched, cut or other decorative glass for a fraction of the cost of decorative glass.  The film provides privacy and adds beauty to a room.  It can be customized by adding extra light or design.

Benefits of Using the 3M Fasara Decorative/Privacy Film Include:

• It is relatively inexpensive compared to decorative glass.
• There is a large variety of styles to choose from.
• After 30 days, it can be cleaned just like you would any other window.
• If styles change, it can be removed and left clear or replaced with another style of film.
• If there is an event which causes the window to break, the pieces will hold together. Injuries from flying glass will be prevented.
• The application is durable, fast, and beautiful.
• 3M and Solar Vision stands behind their product with a 5 year warranty for thermal shock damage.

How Can the 3M Fasara Window Film Be Used:

3M Fasara Decorative/Privacy Film can be used in offices, conference rooms, and lobbies. Retail stores, restaurants,and hospitality venues can use the decorative film.  These glass finishes can be used on partitions, showers, verandas and homes.  The film can be customized to give just the right amount of privacy, light, and decorative value.  The film can be computer cut for precision. The Fasara glass finishes are primarily an interior film, but 2 of the films can be used on the exterior. A beautiful  space  gives a favorable impression to workers and clients.  The addition of the light that is allowed into the room instead of a solid partition adds to worker productivity.

Operations Manager-Lucinda Costello

Lucinda Costello is Solar Vision's new operations manager.  Lucinda is our day-to-day organizational, logistical, and operational manager. She keeps Solar Vision Inc. on-time and ensures that we have all the 3M products ready and available to complete our customers' jobs.  When you call Solar Vision, she is most likely the person you will talk to. Prior to her Solar Vision career, Lucinda worked in many facets of warehouse and office management and sales.

Lucinda has lived all over the U.S. including San Francisco, Florida and Wyoming.  Her family settled in Colorado and she attended high school in Denver.  Her favorite vacation trip was to Thailand where she was able to experience a very different culture and beauty.

Aside from working full-time at Solar Vision Inc., Lucinda has a 2 year old to keep her busy.  She enjoys keeping a beautiful home for her husband, son, and step-daughter. Her tastes run on a traditional line and she likes to try new things.  Lucinda would like to try learning upholstery and she has mentioned learning to quilt as well.  She doesn't really enjoy cooking.  When she does it, she does it well.  Lucinda is a big fan of window film and has used and is planning to use the film on several projects in her home to add privacy and beauty as well as for sun and glare control.

Lucinda and her husband, Josh, volunteer working with the youth in their church.  They realize the importance of teens having an adult that they can connect with and for them to have an adult to be a positive influence in their lives.

Solar Vision is so fortunate to have Lucinda be part of their team.

3M Exterior Prestige Window Film

3M Exterior Prestige window film was applied to these windows. The film applied to these windows was Exterior Prestige 40.  Exterior window film is put on glass when the windows inside are not as accessible as the outside.  A wall, bookcases, heavy or immovable furniture or any number of things may may make it difficult to put the film in the inside.  Skylights that are really high may be easier to have film applied to the outside via the roof.  Exterior window film may also reduce the risk of thermal stress on windows with multiple glass panels.  3M Exterior Prestige window film may be applied to both new buildings and retrofit projects. Advantages of 3M Exterior Prestige Window Film include:

• The film is non-reflective-less reflective than glass
• It has heat rejection with excellent visibility
• It comes in Prestige 40, Prestige 70, and Prestige 90.  The 90 lets in 99% of the normal light
• The film blocks 99.9% of UV rays and prevents fading and deterioration cause by UV rays.
• It reduces glare
• People in the inside are not exposed to the UV rays which can cause skin cancer
• It provides heat control so the inside is more comfortable and less air conditioning is used.
• The film does not interfere with cellular or wireless signals.
• The thickness of the film is less than a piece of paper
• After 30 days it can be cleaned, as any other window.

The film is less reflective than glass. Because of the lower reflection, retail displays are more visible and there is less distraction.  In the day or at night, potential customers see a beautiful window and whatever is displayed or lit up in the window. This can draw more people to a business and increase sales.

This window film is used in commercial as well as in residential buildings.  It is back by the 3M lifetime warranty.

Anti-Graffiti Film Protects Windows

Anti-Graffiti Film protects windows from permanent damage.  Urban centers all over the country are having difficulties with graffiti.  City officials, residents, and property owners are continually seeking solutions to the abatement of graffiti in their neighborhoods.  Anti-Graffiti window film have properties to decrease the harmful effects of graffiti.  Anti-Graffiti window film can be a less costly solution over window replacement. Cities, not only in the US but all over the world are having trouble with graffiti vandalism. When graffiti is visible, people are less likely to shop, eat, go to other venues in the area. People are concerned that if graffiti is allowed that other crimes may also be in the area. Gang activity is also a concern.  Residents and visitors do not feel safe.  Graffiti can be in rural or small town areas as well.

City leaders seek ways to combat this growing issue.  One way is to take down graffiti ASAP. Window film can help remove the graffiti quickly.  The tagger or gang member wants to be recognized and if it is not up long, they won't get the attention they seek.  Another way is to give graffiti artist a place to do and show their work.  This can work for the person who is trying to get artist recognition.  Denver recently has added more police presence downtown for reasons other than graffiti, but graffiti is a part of it. Some youth like to show their independence from authority or take their anger out on people through graffiti.  Schools could benefit from window film by putting window film on restroom mirrors and other glass surfaces.  Graffiti is a senseless crime that is very costly. The city of Denver spends over a million dollars a year on graffiti removal.  Larger cities spend even more.  Window film can't solve the graffiti issue, but can be used as one of many tools.

Advantages of  3M Anti Graffiti Window Film Include:

• Scratch resistant
• Protects glass from permanent damage
• Gouge resistant
• Easily removed and replace by professional
• Used indoors or outdoors
• Resists acid or etching tools
• Can be cleaned as any other window surface
• Anti-graffiti film is clear and distortion free
• Has other benefits of window film such as 99% blocking of UV rays
• Comes is two thicknesses for low risk and high risk areas
• Backed by 3M warranties

Window replacement can cost up to twenty times the cost of window film. Window film is one of the many tools businesses and communities are using to combat the costly damage of graffiti.

Glass Finishes Can Turn Door Into White Board

The 3M Fasara Films are applied to glass to give them unique glass finishes.  A glass finish applied to this door turned it into a white board or message board.  Etched, cut, sandblasted, textured or other decorative glass finishes add beauty to any room.  These glass finishes are extremely expensive.  An alternative to these popular glass finishes is the use of decorative window film.  The window film provides privacy and beauty.  It can customize spaces while allowing light to enter a room. Why use 3M Fasara?

• The film is relatively inexpensive.
• It comes in 59 glass finishes.
• The film is applied by experts in the field.
• The application is durable, fast, and beautiful.
• It is made of a thin, durable polyesters.
• When styles change, it can be removed.
• After 30 days, it can be cleaned like any other window.
• It has a 3M 5 year warranty for thermal shock fractures.

3M Fasara Window Film can be used in offices, conference rooms, and lobbies. Retail stores, restaurants,and hospitality venues can use the decorative film.  These glass finishes can be used on partitions, showers, verandas and homes.  The film can be customized to give just the right amount of privacy, light, and decorative value.  The film can be computer cut for precision. Solar Vision has several people on its team that are very artistic and can free hand projects as well.  They have an eye for getting the installation just right. The Fasara glass finishes are primarily an interior film, but 2 of the films can be used on the exterior. The beautiful  space  gives a favorable impression to workers and clients.  The addition of the light that is allowed into the room instead of a solid partition adds to worker productivity.

The Matte glass finish used on this door is only a small example of what can be done with the film. Please view our other projects.

Di-Noc Art Project

Solar Vision donated Di-Noc samples to an art project for children with disabilities.  The  art project was displayed in an art show in downtown Denver.  At the end of the show, the art piece was given to Solar Vision and is displayed in the Solar Vision office. Di-Noc Use

Di-Noc is an architectural finish that has many uses.  It takes the place of natural  and hi-tech finishes.  It  is considered to be a "Designer's Dream."  There are 500 different finishes.  Di-Noc reproduces wood, metal, marble, leather, stone and stucco.  If another surface is desired, it can be specially ordered.

The properties of Di-Noc include:

• resistance to water, dirt, impacts, wear, abrasion and mold
• no mess application-no dust, fumes, etc. resulting in no down time for workers
• applied to flat and curved surfaces
• easily cleaned
• can be computer cut
• flame retardant
• some have antibacterial properties
• architectural freedom and design

Di-Noc helps create green buildings by using materials that already exist and reuse them.  Walls, desks, etc. can be reused creating less land fill and saving company resources.  It  is less expensive than replacing the covered areas. If Di-Noc is applied during off hours.  The workers or customers leave and return to a place where the space with the Di-Noc has been transformed.  There is no dust to clean up and there are no fumes.  Di-Noc can be used in the interior or the exterior of a building.  This architectural finish is primarily used for commercial applications, but also can be used by residential customers.

Continuous Improvement

At Solar Vision's Annual Meeting, past successes were celebrated and plans  for future growth were made.  Solar Vision exceeded their goals this past year in window film sales.  The 3M Dealer of the Year was received for the Rocky Mountain and Northwest Regions.  Goals for the 2014 were discussed and shared with the Solar Vision team.

Goals for 2014 Include:

• 20% increase in sales
• Increase residential window film sales to 25% of total sales
• Continue to educate the public on the benefits of window film in their energy management plans
• Build efficient systems
• Develop and improve marketing strategies

Continuous Improvement Seminar

In the afternoon, Brent Kube led a seminar on Continuous Improvement.  Brent is a small business consultant and a mechanical engineer for a large machinery manufacturer.  His expertise is in lean manufacturing which means that operations should be cost effective and efficient to make things run smoother and to ultimately be more profitable. This also means that Solar Vision is constantly aware of energy efficiency.

Continuous Improvement is based on making many small changes.  The ideas for improvement come from the workers.  All employees continually seek ways to improve their own performance.  Employees make suggestions on how things can run smoother and more efficiently.  When employees know that their ideas are valued, they take ownership in the company which makes workers highly motivated and satisfied with their job.  The end result is that everyone makes more money.

Brainstorming Session

As a part of the seminar, brainstorming  activities were carried out by Heath and Shelley.  Everyone seemed to have a clear vision of the future and strategies and systems are being put in place to meet our goals.  The Continuous Improvement business strategy is a good fit for Solar Vision because of our clear goals, respect in the workplace, environment management, and progressive view of business operation in the 21st Century.