Transitional vs. Switchable Film: How to Make the Right Selection

Are you trying to renovate your home or office space, but are unsure of whether to choose transitional and switchable window films? Well, you’re not the only one. Many people who are looking to get window film installation face this dilemma. However, there’s no need to worry…U.S. Film Crew is here to help!

In this post, we’ll discuss the differences between transitional and switchable window films and which one’s right for you.Let’s get started by understanding the differences between the two.

Transitional Window Films

Transitional window films, as the name suggests, are the kind of films that change from a clear tint to a dark tint when exposed to the sun’s UV radiation. These films are made with a photochromic interlayer that gives creates a chemical reaction when sunlight comes in contact with it. As a result, it darkens under intense UV exposure and returns to a clear state at night-time to maximize visibility.

These window films typically block 99.9% of the UV radiation, which is responsible for major skin related problems such as:

• 90% of all premature skin aging signs such as dark spots and wrinkles;
• Sunburn and tanning;
• The destruction of vitamin A in the skin cells;
• Damaging the DNA in the skin cells;
• Increased risk of skin cancer.

Not only that, but transitional window films block out 80% of the infrared heat gain and adapt automatically with the amount of sunlight coming through glass windows and/or doors. Therefore, you can enjoy the healthy rays of sun and stay protected – without putting any efforts. Pretty awesome, right?

Switchable Films

Switchable films, also known as “smart films” or “residential privacy window films”, are the films that allow the users to manually change the glass from a transparent to an opaque state. These films use electrochromic technology and are managed through a control board. Switchable films can be applied to interior glass walls, windows, and doors. A major advantage of switchable films is that you can enable them whenever you want to, giving you privacy whenever you need. 

Switchable films are mostly used in large spaces such as commercial office buildings, governmental agencies, and educational facilities. One major disadvantage of these films is their inability to protect against UV radiation and solar heat gain. Not only that, but most of these films are operated by battery, requiring maintenance over time.

Summary: Transitional Window Films vs. Switchable Films

Transitional Window Films	Switchable Films
·    These films change from clear to darker tinted state, when exposed to the sun’s UV radiation.	·     These films are enabled manually, using a switch.
·    Transitional window films protect mainly against UV radiation.	·     Switchable films are mostly used for dynamic privacy.
·    These films work automatically, thanks to chemical reaction it gives with the UV rays.	·    These films work using a battery operated manual switch.
·    As these films work automatically, they require less maintenance.	·     Due to the mechanics involved in these films, they require more maintenance.

Which Film to Choose?

Here’s the ultimate question: which window film should I choose? Well, there’s no right or wrong answer to this question as it totally depends on what you need. Many customers select a combination of the two depending on their individual needs.

If you have a large commercial or public space and privacy is your biggest priority, then switchable window films or heavy duty security film may be best for you. On the other hand, if you need films that give you protection against the dangerous UV radiation but want to enjoy the natural sunlight, then you should consider transitional window film installation or modern decorative window film installation.

Ultimately, it’s not about which one’s better than the other. It’s about which one’s right for you. For more information, contact our commercial window film specialists at 412-961-8468 or visit www.usfilmcrew.com today!