Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sun-Gard Films?
Sun-Gard Solar Control Window Films are a family of products that are applied to glass either for automotive or architectural purposes. Made from the highest grade polyester, our films are treated with various coating and laminating techniques to produce the desired color and performance characteristics. With a wide range to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect film to help control the sun’s heat, UV rays and glare in your vehicle, home or office.
How do Sun-Gard Films work?
By increasing the amount of solar heat that is reflected or absorbed by the film, Sun-Gard products reduce the amount of heat that is transmitted through the glass. Reducing solar heat offers a more comfortable interior space in a building or vehicle. Utilizing various processes in the construction of our films, allows us to provide a varying degree to which our films reduce solar heat transmission. Some films contain a layer of metal that provides a high amount of solar heat reflection (even though the film itself is not necessarily reflective). Other films contain no metal but still offer a level of heat rejection that will provide significant benefits. Please consult your Sun-Gard professional retailer to find out which film is best for you.
How is Sun-Gard Window Film applied?
Sun-Gard window film is professionally installed by a well-trained Sun-Gard dealer. Most of our films are designed
to be installed on the inside of your windows or glass doors.
For architectural applications: The first step is preparation which includes thoroughly cleaning the windows and
the immediate surrounding work space – this could require moving furniture, removing window treatments and
protecting the flooring below. Then the film is sprayed with a mounting solution to allow it to be properly
positioned on the glass. Using professional tools and techniques, the installing dealer will form the film to the
glass surface being sure to remove any excess water. He’ll then trim the edges of the film for a perfect fit and
complete the process with a final squeegee technique to ensure the film is in place.
For automotive applications: The glass is first thoroughly cleaned. The installing dealer will then wet the film
and apply it to the outside of the window. Using a heat gun, he will form the film to the exact curvature of the
window. After this, the film is carefully removed from the outside of the window and applied with a squeegee to the
inside of the glass. The installing dealer will trim any excess film and will complete the installation by making
sure the film is firmly in place.
Which Sun-Gard Automotive Window Film is right for me?
To select the best Sun-Gard film for your vehicle, you should consult your local Sun-Gard dealer. We offer a wide range of products from an all-metal film to a metal-free, GPS friendly film. Color and performance characteristics vary from film to film. Your Sun-Gard dealer can show you swatches of each film and talk to you about the performance benefits that best meet your needs. To find a Sun-Gard dealer near you, call 888-887-2022 to speak to one of our 5 service centers in the U.S. For international requests, please contact our authorized distributor for your country which can be found here.
Which Sun-Gard Architectural Window Film is right for me?
To select the best Sun-Gard film for your home or commercial property, you should consult your local Sun-Gard dealer. We offer a wide range of products that come in various shades, colors and offer different performance characteristics. Your Sun-Gard dealer can show you swatches of each film and talk to you about the performance benefits that best meet your needs. To find a Sun-Gard dealer near you, call 888-887-2022 to speak to one of our 5 service centers in the U.S. For international requests, please contact our authorized distributor for your country which can be found here.
Do Sun-Gard films offer any security benefits?
Yes, Sun-Gard films offer some basic security benefits including helping to hold broken glass in its frame. Many Sun-Gard films can also offer a level of privacy by making it more difficult to see in windows from the exterior of a property. However, our Glass-Gard Safety/Security Films offer enhanced levels of protection against storm damage, criminal activity and accidents that result in glass related injuries. Glass-Gard films are made from either clear or tinted polyester that is thicker than traditional solar control film. Many Glass-Gard films have passed numerous test standards for bomb blast and strong storm mitigation, including the Miami Dade Small Missile Test. If you are interested in enhancing the level of protection for your property, please contact your local Sun-Gard or Glass-Gard dealer for more information. To locate a dealer in the U.S., please call 888-887-2022. For international requests, please contact our authorized distributor for your country which can be found here.
How do I maintain window film after it is installed?
Wait 30 days and then simply clean windows as you normally would, using standard window cleaning solution and soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials that may scratch or damage the film.
Can I install Sun-Gard film myself on my home or business property?
A trained installer will need to professionally fit window film to the inside of your existing windows. Professional installation will help ensure your satisfaction and provide you with the warranty protection you deserve.
How long does it take for Sun-Gard Window Film to dry?
Depending on weather conditions and the film type, it can take up to 30 sometimes even 45 days for the film to fully dry and cure. During this time, you may notice small water bubbles and/or a hazy appearance. This is normal and will disappear as the film dries. Once completely dry, your Sun-Gard window film will be virtually undetectable and will look great for years to come.
How long will Sun-Gard Solar Control Window Film last?
Made with only the highest grade raw materials, Sun-Gard films are made to last several years. The exact life of the film depends on the film type, the climate and the type of glass in which it is installed. Most automotive applications last in upwards of 10 years. Architectural films can easily last 10 to 15 years, sometimes longer. The important thing to remember is that all of our films are backed by a manufacturer’s warranty. Most automotive and residential applications that comply with all governing laws and our application standards are backed by a lifetime warranty. Most of our commercial applications are covered for a period of 10 years. Speak with your Sun-Gard dealer for warranty details as some restrictions may apply.
Will Sun-Gard Film kill my house plants?
No, Sun-Gard solar control films will not harm your house plants or anything else on the interior of your home. As a matter of fact, Sun-Gard film will help protect your flooring and furnishings from fading caused by exposure to UV rays and solar heat.
Will Sun-Gard Film cause glass to break?
While adding solar control film to glass will increase the glass temperature, properly chosen film will not cause glass to break. There are a number of factors that can contribute to the rare case of glass breakage. These include the amount of external shading, interior shading, glass size and shape, age of the glass, previous glass breakage history, certain film types on certain types of glass, interior versus exterior temperatures and more. With over 35 years of experience, we are able to make proper film-to-glass recommendations thus minimizing the risk of glass breakage. We also offer limited warranty protection against glass breakage and seal failure for properly applied installations. Please consult your Sun-Gard dealer for details and to obtain a copy of our architectural film warranty.
How Much UV Protection Will Sun-Gard Solar Control Film Provide?
All Sun-Gard automotive and architectural window films can block up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays. This can help protect against skin-related issues including melanoma. UV rays also contribute to fading of interior furnishings and flooring. Sun-Gard helps reduce fading by not only blocking UV rays but also blocking up to 78% of harmful solar heat.
What energy savings can I expect from installing solar control film?
Installing Sun-Gard Solar Control Film reduces the amount of solar heat entering your home or property which can result in lower cooling costs in the summer. However, determining exact energy savings can be difficult because many factors contribute to energy use such as the fluctuating cost of fuel, amount of direct sun exposure, type of film installed, type of glass and many others. However, typical payback in energy savings is usually 2 – 5 years, sometimes less. Talk with your local Sun-Gard dealer regarding your particular situation; they can help you analyze and determine potential savings.
Where can I buy Sun-Gard Film?
Our films are sold through a large network of independent dealerships worldwide. In the U.S., you can find a dealership in your area by calling one of our 5 service centers at 1-888-887-2022. They will direct you to the closest dealership. Outside of the U.S., please contact our authorized distributor for your country. For a list of distributors visit here.
Are Sun-Gard Films manufactured in the U.S.?
Yes, all Sun-Gard solar control films are manufactured in our St. Petersburg, Florida production facility and corporate headquarters. We distribute our products through a network of independent distributors to over 70 countries. We also own four distribution centers in the United States. With such an expansive supply channel, we can provide our quality products to you in an efficient and cost-effective manner.