A Smart Solution with Window Film
At Lustalux we have for many tears been at hand to solve a host of problems for our customers. A very unusual issue we took on last year was a project at Wythenshawe College, near Manchester, where vandalism on a large scale was causing significant disruption and expense.
Ball Bearings and Catapults = Broken Windows
The college was undergoing frequent attacks from youths armed with catapults, firing ball bearings at windows. More than just a nuisance, this posed serious safety risks to visitors, students and staff, while also leading to expensive repairs and continual disruptions to the daily operation of the college. Before our intervention the college was spending an estimated £60,000 to £70,000 per year on replacing broken windows. Shattered glass was regularly falling onto the walkway leading to the college entrance, creating a chaotic and unsafe environment.
Faced with this serious issue, our client—a renowned architectural glazing and façade contractor—needed a cost effective, long-term solution. That’s when they turned to Lustalux.
The Outcome: Peace of Mind and Lasting Protection
Since the film installation, the college has reported a significant decrease in breakages. In fact, there have
been no further cases requiring glass replacement. The effect of the film, combined with the fact that windows no longer shatter and granulate on impact, has rendered the structure a far less attractive target. Not only saving the college thousands of pounds in glazing replacement but also contributing to a safer and more secure learning environment.
The Surprising Bit
Before installation, we had no idea whether our solution would actually work so rigorous testing was carried out to ensure the film’s capabilities. In one test, 10mm stainless steel ball bearings were fired from a catapult at glazed panels with the film applied.
A total of 16 shots were taken, ranging from distances of 50m down to just 5m. The results were extremely pleasing and impressive: with even at the shortest distance of 5m, the film prevented glass from breaking. A video demonstration captured this impact, demonstrating the effectiveness of our solution in real time.
The Solution: Advanced Window Film Protection
After assessing the situation, we recommended a high-performance 200-micron safety film designed to mitigate the impact of such attacks. Our solution involved:
- High-Strength Safety Film – A durable, shatter-resistant film applied to the existing glazing, significantly reducing the likelihood of glass breaking upon impact.
- Anti-Shatter Properties – Even if a window was struck with force, the film held the glass together, preventing dangerous shards from scattering and reducing the risk of injury.
- Optical Clarity – The 200-micron safety film is totally clear and optically perfect, ensuring zero distortion of vision either in or out of the glazing system.
- No Impact on Thermal Properties – This film does not affect the thermal performance of the installed glazed units.
- Industry-Leading Protection – This product is the current Home Office base standard for Blast Protection for UK Government and Defence installations worldwide.
- Long-Term Durability – The film carries a full manufacturer’s global warranty of seven years, with a usable life well beyond ten years in our part of the world.
- Easy Maintenance – The scratch-resistant coating allows for normal cleaning, including modern brush and pole cleaning systems.
Why Choose Window Film for Security?
Safety and Security window films are an excellent choice for commercial and public commercial buildings looking to improve safety without the need to undertake costly structural changes.
They provide:
- Protection from vandalism, break-ins and internal damage.
- Increased security without compromising natural light levels
- A cost-effective alternative to other security and safety solutions.
At Lustalux, we specialise in providing tailored solutions that protect and enhance any building. Whether it’s safety, security, privacy, or energy efficiency, our thirty plus years of experience ensures the right fit for each and every project. If your premises face similar risks, please get in touch—we’d be pleased to help.
Need a safety, security, privacy or solar control upgrade for your building? Contact us today to discuss your options!
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