Large glass areas often cause two problems in public buildings: too much glare and glass that is easy to break. The main lobby of a San Jose courthouse faced both issues. To make the space more comfortable and secure, ClimatePro installed two types of 3M window film to address both of these issues.
The Challenge: Managing Glare While Enhancing Security
The lobby has tall glass walls that let in a lot of natural light. While this looks impressive, it also causes strong glare from the upper windows. The bright sunlight made some areas uncomfortable for visitors and staff, especially during the brightest parts of the day.
The lower lobby windows and entry doors also needed extra protection from breakage and forced entry. Since security is important in public buildings, adding security window film was a practical choice.
An additional challenge involved existing lobby graphics. Another challenge was the lobby graphics. After installing the darker security film, the interior “Courthouse Hours” sign would be invisible, so a new sign had to be placed outside to ensure visitors could still see it. Systems throughout the lobby.
3M Night Vision for Upper Lobby Windows
To address glare and solar heat gain, we supplied and installed 3M Night Vision Window Film on 69 upper lobby window panes. 3M Night Vision helps reduce harsh sunlight and glare while still letting people see outside. Its darker look makes the inside more comfortable by lowering brightness and blocking some of the sun’s heat.
For a lobby with lots of glass, this brings several benefits:
- Reduced daytime glare
- Improved visual comfort for occupants
- Lower solar heat gain
- Better visibility of digital displays and interior spaces
- Preservation of natural daylight without the need for window replacement
This makes the lobby more comfortable all day long. The ClimatePro team has installed this film in a number of businesses in the Bay Area and it continues to impress with its ability to create comfort without compromising on style.
Security, Comfort & Peace of Mind
Security Upgrades With 3M Ultra Window Film
For the lower lobby windows and entry doors, ClimatePro installed 3M Ultra Security Window Film combined with the 3M Impact Protection Attachment (IPA) System across 26 panes.
3M Security Window Film is different from regular solar film. Instead of stopping the glass from breaking, it holds the broken pieces together after an impact. This lowers the risk of flying glass and makes it harder for someone to break in quickly.
Adding the 3M IPA attachment system is an important part of the setup. It anchors the filmed glass to the window frame, helping it stay in place during impacts and improving the security film’s performance.
Benefits of this security upgrade include:
- Increased resistance to forced-entry attempts
- Enhanced protection from broken glass hazards
- Improved safety for building occupants
- Added protection against vandalism and accidental impacts
- Better security without changing how the building looks
A Comprehensive Window Film Solution
This San Jose courthouse project demonstrates how various window film products can address multiple building problems at once. Using 3M Night Vision for glare and 3M Ultra Security Window Film with the IPA system for security, the courthouse got a more comfortable lobby and stronger glass without needing new windows.
With 95 window panes upgraded and new signs installed, the project made the building more comfortable, secure, and easier to use while keeping its modern look.
Looking for window film for a government building or public facility? ClimatePro offers solar-control, security, decorative, and specialty window films throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. If your building needs glare reduction, heat control, better security, or a mix of these, our team can create a solution that fits your needs. For a free estimate, give ClimatePro a call at 707.755.7337 or get started online here. We are the best reviewed window film installation team in the entire San Francisco Bay Area.
