Combining bird safety with solar performance using patterned films

Though they look great, glass facades and windows cause bird collisions due to reflections and transparency. At the same time, they allow solar heat gain, glare, and UV damage inside buildings.

Fortunately, patterned window films offer a way to address both issues simultaneously. Combining bird safety with solar performance is a key characteristic of patterned films, as they prevent bird strikes by breaking up reflections while also delivering benefits such as UV protection, glare control, and improved energy efficiency.

Regardless if you’re an architect, urban planner, facility manager, or just an environmentally conscious homeowner, patterned films are a great pick for countering this dual issue.

How patterned films work

From the aspect of bird safety, patterned window films do the job by creating visual cues birds can perceive. They disrupt reflections, allowing these flying creatures to actually see the barrier.

As for solar performance, patterned films are built to block UV, cut down on glare, and help save energy.

Being patterned means there are also several types of said patterns, each with different technical efficiency. For instance, dots are among the most widely used patterns for bird-safe films. They work well in both residential and large facade applications since they maintain high visible light transmission while creating enough visual interruption for birds.

Stripes are another pattern design that’s a popular choice. They are often chosen for modern office or commercial aesthetics, offering a sleek design while still delivering anti-collision safety. The pattern can be either horizontal or vertical, while continuous lines can also reduce glare and improve shading, especially with vertical stripes on sun-exposed facades.

Both should follow the 2x4 rule, where the pattern is spaced 2 inches (50 mm) horizontally and 4 inches (100mm) vertically.

Custom designs are also available, which are frequently used in projects where branding or architectural identity is important.

A two-for-one benefit

With patterned window films, you’re getting two things done at once. You’re actually helping with biodiversity, as reduced bird collisions will lead to improved urban biodiversity protection. Plus, this also helps buildings meet green standards and achieve certifications for being biodiversity-friendly.

On the other hand, buildings and occupants get to reap other benefits. For example, anti-collision patterned films can be energy efficient and reduce cooling costs during summer.

Glare control is another one, which improves comfort in offices, classrooms, or airports. Patterned films also help preserve furniture, flooring, and interior decor by granting UV protection.

Comparison to single-purpose solutions

Standard solar control window films are generally very effective at reducing heat gain, blocking UV rays, and lowering energy costs, but they do nothing against the bird strikes. For projects with biodiversity protection requirements, solar-only films often fall short.

Another comparison is against decals and DIY bird deterrents that can prevent bird strikes if applied with the correct density. However, these typically lack durability and offer no solar protection whatsoever. Moreover, they aren't practical or aesthetically acceptable for large-scale facades in professional or commercial contexts.

This is why patterned window films are an amazing choice because they’re combining bird safety with solar performance and offering the best of two worlds.

Use cases and applications

Let’s just say that sustainable window film solutions can be used practically anywhere. Corporate offices could use one of the window films to help the companies be more eco-friendly and make the space a more comfortable place to work.

For universities and schools, it could help protect the campus wildlife while simultaneously improving the learning environments for students.

These films are ideal for large spaces that feature extensive use of glass, like airports, train stations, and other transport hubs, considering they boost both safety and comfort.

Lastly, heritage buildings or eco-certified constructions can find a use in film’s subtle integration that doesn’t compromise a building's aesthetics, making it suitable for historically significant or environmentally certified structures.

Get the most bang for your buck

With all things considered, patterned window films represent a sustainable, multi-functional solution to two major building challenges. By combining bird safety with solar performance, they protect the windows and the little avian beings themselves, in addition to boosting solar protection and energy efficiency.

With extensive expertise in combining wildlife protection with building performance, the Solar Screen team is here to help you make the right pick. As such, we invite you to take a look at the various premium adhesive films in our catalog to find something to your liking. All our customers do!