I have not had a lot of experience with applied films for glass and glazing, but I do receive questions about them. I’d like to compile links to some resources for these products, and I’m hoping that some of you have insight you can share.
Glazing films may be added to existing glass for many reasons, for example, security, impact-resistance, privacy, or aesthetics. There are also treatments for new glazing but in some facilities there is a preference to keep the existing glass in place, if possible.
One question that comes up frequently is whether there are films that have been tested and listed for use on existing glazing in fire door assemblies.
Do any of you have experience with these products?
What are some considerations for use of these films in school applications?
Are there glazing films that can be used on fire door assemblies?
WWYD?
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Does the manufacture have to be consulted???
No field modifications to the door assembly have been performed that void the label. For fire rated assemblies.
Hi Charles –
The product would have to be listed for use on a fire door assembly, which would typically mean testing it with various types of glazing.
– Lori
We just researched this on a project and the rated door system manufacturer (including the glass) said that there is a limit on the amount of film that can be applied, and the rating of the glazing may have to increase
if any film is used. His explanation is that, in a fire, petroleum-based films would melt and add heat stress to the glazing. Sean Williams at TGP was very helpful and could explain much better than me!
Thanks Dawn!
– Lori
This is based on the time when films were relatively new. We had some solar film cause fracturing of glass
It seemed to be a thermal problem
I also had a hospital contact me, asking if I thought the film could be applied to the windows of an intensive care unit and add an element of safety. I sent them a picture of an automobile half inside our intensive care. The tornado was the May 6th Omaha tornado of 1975.
Wow! What a story, Jerry!
– Lori