The Problem-Solving Power of Window Film

Did you know that one billion birds are killed in collisions with glass each year? In New York City alone, between 90,000 and 230,000 birds are killed each year due to collisions with buildings. These numbers may seem staggering, but the good news is that there are ways we can help protect our feathered friends. At Layr, we specialize in bird-safety film that can be applied to windows and glass to prevent collisions and keep birds safe. In this post, we’ll delve into what bird film is, how it works, and how it can help you comply with NYC laws while keeping the skies safe for our avian neighbors.... READ MORE

Smart film or switchable film is gaining popularity across the world as it provides instant privacy and impressive aesthetics. This technology works through electricity and has a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) film that turns opaque or transparent by sending electrical signals through glass. The film’s controllers are responsible for turning the film on or off and controlling the number of windows, size, and custom functions of the smart film. Smart film is highly customizable and retrofittable, making it perfect for industries such as hospitals, schools, hotels, and homes. Smart film also comes with a manufacturer’s warranty that falls between 2 to 5 years. This post explores six reasons for installing smart film, including impressive technology, value vs. cost, aesthetics, and functionality across various industries.... READ MORE

Distraction markers are an essential part of building codes in New York and New Jersey, and they are becoming increasingly important for other states as well. Distraction markers are visual cues to help people avoid glass walls and doors in modern offices where sheetrock and drywall have been replaced by glass for a more open look. Window film markings can be simple, ornate, or custom-designed, adding aesthetics and visual interest to plain glass, contributing to branding and advertising, creating or enhancing privacy, and avoiding lawsuits and liability from injured employees. In this post, we will cover the basics of distraction markers and explore different styles, from simple and classic designs to private bands, full coverage film, gradient film, and dichroic film. While building codes mandate certain sizes and shapes for distraction markers, window film offers the most cost-effective and visually striking way to create them for any price point.... READ MORE

Hotels are taking the guest experience to the next level with smart film, also known as switch film. This innovative technology offers a quick and easy way to change the transparency of windows, providing guests with an unobstructed view of the city while maintaining privacy. Plus, it’s cost-effective and easy to maintain. Smart film can also be used in other areas of a hotel, including conference rooms, spas, gyms, and more.... READ MORE

Upgrading your windows to energy-efficient ones or installing window film can be an excellent way to save money on utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint. However, with so many different metrics and technical jargon to consider, it can be challenging to know where to start. This blog post aims to demystify the process by explaining five critical terms you need to know when choosing energy-efficient windows or window film. These include visible light transmission (VLT), reflectivity, solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), and U-value. Understanding these metrics can help you make informed decisions and choose the right windows or film for your building’s specific needs. Whether you’re looking to limit sun damage to your furniture or keep your building warm in the winter and cool in the summer, this blog post has got you covered.... READ MORE

If you’re a building owner or real estate professional, you’re probably aware of Local Law 97, which requires large buildings in New York City to reduce carbon emissions by 40% by 2030 and 80% by 2050. Achieving these ambitious goals will require innovative solutions that go beyond traditional energy conservation measures. In this podcast episode, Manny Hondroulis of Energy Products Distribution and William Pulman of Layr discuss how window film can be a practical and effective solution for reducing carbon emissions in large buildings. They explore how window films can improve the insulation and reduce solar heat gain of building envelopes without sacrificing aesthetics or incurring logistical challenges. The conversation covers various aspects of window film technology, from its pricing and performance to its longevity and environmental impact. If you’re curious about how window film can help you achieve your energy conservation goals, don’t miss this informative and engaging discussion!... READ MORE

The heatwave of 2021 has affected everyone, making energy costs skyrocket, and buildings increasingly uncomfortable. So what can property owners and managers do to reduce their energy usage and improve comfort? One solution that has been getting a lot of attention is window film. According to the Department of Energy, window film can reduce solar heat gain, interior temperatures, and HVAC usage, making buildings much more comfortable while saving money. In a recent case study of a large Class A skyscraper in New York City, Layr installed 3M Thinsulate 75 window film, which reduced solar heat gain and improved winter insulation while maintaining a clear aesthetic profile. Installing the film was an instant improvement that could be felt immediately. To gather more objective data, Layr installed USB temperature loggers on the filmed and un-filmed floors to measure the temperature differences. They found that during the hottest parts of the day, the filmed floors were 10-15 degrees cooler, providing a considerable benefit to reduce carbon demand, prolong HVAC equipment usage, and improve tenant comfort.... READ MORE

Layr Window Film after 365 days of Covid-19. New procedures, jobs at Westchester School District and Monynihan Train Hall, and awarded 3M’s 2020 Northeastern Dealer of the Year.... READ MORE

Layr simplifies the selection process for new windows and window film to five metrics and offers a case study for these measures in the real world.... READ MORE

Decorative window film offers a practical and cost-effective solution to privacy concerns, energy efficiency, and upgrading your office’s look and style. With 3M Decorative Window Film, your office space can maintain its privacy and safety without sacrificing space or visibility. Additionally, it provides UV protection, improves aesthetics, and allows for customization. Learn more about why people are choosing decorative window film and how it can benefit your commercial property.... READ MORE

In this blog article, we explore the benefits of practicing mindfulness in our daily lives. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving focus and overall well-being, mindfulness is a simple yet powerful tool that can help us navigate the challenges of modern life. We’ll also provide some tips and techniques for incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine, so you can start experiencing its positive effects for yourself.... READ MORE

This post presents a case study that showcases the effectiveness of energy-efficient window films in reducing heat and glare, improving insulation, and enhancing tenant comfort in high-rise buildings. Property owners and managers are often hesitant to invest in window films, which can cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars, without being sure about their efficacy. The post offers evidence-based proof of the benefits of window films, using the example of a skyscraper in Midtown East, New York City. The study shows that 3M “Prestige 40,” a high-performance, non-reflective energy efficiency window film, significantly decreased peak temperatures and reduced glare by over 55%. The post includes graphs and temperature loggers to demonstrate the effect of the film. The post also explains how different buildings and glazing types require a tailored approach to managing solar glass efficiency.... READ MORE