December 2023
Welcome to the December 2023 issue of Window Film News.
This Summer is set to be another steamer. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) warns of a ‘unusually warm Summer’ in Australia, with an increased chance of high temperatures possibly in the top 20% of records for this time of year for most of the continent. In New Zealand, the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) predicts temperatures are most likely to be above average in the east of both islands and about equally likely to be near average or above average in all other regions.
With solar control still the main driver of film sales, media stories portending another hot season has injected energy into both markets. In this newsletter we’ll update you on developments and news impacting your business, and the 2023 WFAANZ activities designed to support your business this Summer.
To know film is to love it
Anyone in our industry could talk for hours about the benefits of window film. But what about other trades, do they have an understanding of where, when and why it can be used to best effect? Unfortunately, there’s still a lack of knowledge in the broader construction industry about window film. A situation WFAANZ is rectifying by building relationships with other, like-minded associations…
Building Designers Association of Australia (BDAA) Festival of Design and CPD workshop
BDAA has two member categories, building designers and energy assessors, both of whom heavily influence green renovation decisions.
That’s why WFAANZ partnered with the BDAA, sponsoring the BDAA Festival of Design in Sydney in October, and delivering a live webinar CPD training session titled Window Film: A retrofit efficiency solution on November 11 to 231 BDAA members across the country.
Thanks to Adam Adair, Rob Hamilton, Eoin Geaney, Nathan Gilbert, Shayne Adam and Cameron Wallace who each played a role in the success of these events.
Facility Manager’s Association (FMA) National Summit
On June 8 in Melbourne and June 15 in Sydney WFAANZ committee member Adam Adair presented at the Facility Managers Association of Australia’s (FMA) 2023 National Summit: Exploring Net Zero
The two full-day summits attracted close to 100 facility managers. In his presentation, Adam explored the efficacy of window film through the lens of energy consumption, HVAC optimisation, space management and productivity.
Adam also sat on the “What is a Sustainable Transition to Net Zero” panel discussion along with Carlos Flores from NABERS.
Glass identification
Achieving your customers’ performance requirements isn’t the only factor that comes into play when matching film to glass – finding a film that poses the least risk of thermal stress is just as, if not more, crucial.
As government mandated energy requirements are getting more stringent, different glazing systems have become more prolific in Australia and New Zealand. Low E coated, double glazing unit (DGU), toughened or heat treated glass, air filled DGU with heat treated glass, gas filled DGU with Low E coated toughened glass, and the list goes on, with each combination having a bearing on film choice.
Wayne Anstis, WFAANZ NZ, says, “We’re seeing more and more Low E coatings and Argon gas filled DGU’s being specified in New Zealand since the government implemented the new H1 building regulations for new builds and retrofit glazing. NZ tinters need to know the glass type before they recommend, order, cut and apply film, because if they get it wrong, the replacement cost of some of this glazing is eye-wateringly expensive and public liability insurance doesn’t cover it.
“The advice from WFAANZ,” Wayne continues, “is that if you’re unsure of whether a certain film works on a particular window unit, consult with your film supplier first who can conduct a film to glass analysis check. In some instances, external window films may be the safest option.”
There are a variety of ways to identify glass, from comparing the hue of the glass, tap tests, tactile tests, or by using glass analysis tools. Training and guidance can be found in the WFAANZ Architectural Window Film workshop (webinar). For further information, please contact WFAANZ.
The Glass + Film series
A Glass + Film series of technical bulletins is being produced for WFAANZ members. Designed to help facilitate discussions with your customers, they outline things to keep in mind when having film installed on certain glass types.
The first is Toughened Glass + Film, available now for all WFAANZ members.
Released in 2024:
- Low E glass + Film
- Laminated Glass + Film
- Double Glazed Units + Film
Members – keep an eye out in your inbox for the toughened glass PDF, arriving soon.
Even DGUs need a boost
While care must be taken when matching film to DGUs, Low E windows and toughened glass, it is rare that a safe film solution cannot be found in these scenarios.
This was evident in Bowral this year, where an external film was installed on DGUs by TintFX – Glass Film Solutions, for extra heat reduction.
The UV factor
UV rays that reach the Earth have two categories – UVA and UVB (thankfully for humans, UVC is stopped by the ozone layer). While car window glass blocks UVB, which is considered the main cause of sunburn and skin cancers, it doesn’t offer the same protection against UVA.
UVA causes skin cells to age, is linked to long-term skin damage like wrinkles, and has recently also been found to play a role in the development of skin cancers. Understanding UV better enables a film installer to explain why ‘typically blocking 99% of all UV from entering the window’ is such a massive incentive to apply film AND sets up the answer for the commonly asked question “don’t my car windows already block UV rays?”.
Gateway to window film energy rating data
If you’ve searched the WERS data tables looking for energy rating data about a particular film, you’ll like this news. Search functionality has been added so you can now find films that match your criteria with a few clicks – rather than trawling though multiple pages.
Search by one or more of the following:
- U value
- SHGC
- Window ID
- Frame description
- Minimum visible light transmittance
- Manufacturer
Thanks to AGWA for overseeing this review, and in doing so making it much easier for WERS For Film accredited installers, building designers, certifiers, etc. to find films that match their needs.
Visit the WERS data tables here.
Safety film and AS/NZS 2208 – what you need to know
The current status of AS/NZS 2208 is ‘pending revision’ as changes to the standard put forward by the revision committee are processed. With his seat on the revision committee, WFAANZ Vice President Rob Hamilton has protected the place of safety film throughout the revision process.
If the changes are adopted, the revisions impacting film installers include changes to the safety label itself; and new wording regarding the glazing surface that film can be applied to. Again, these changes have not been officially adopted at this time. WFAANZ will alert members when the revised standard is released, and will also schedule a AS/NZS 2008 training session (webinar) for our members at that time.
Click here for the technical bulletin on an installer’s current obligations when installing safety film to meet AS/NZS 2208.
Window film and the NSW Energy Savings Scheme
This year WFAANZ submitted a proposal to the NSW government making a case for the inclusion of window film as an approved energy saving product under the NSW Energy Savings Scheme (ESS). If WFAANZ is successful it could result in the NSW government assisting households with the cost of installing window film on their homes to improve energy efficiency.
Please note that to differentiate from the ‘pink batts’ scheme of many years ago, under this new initiative only film installers who are WERS For Film accredited will be able to be involved.
In November, WFAANZ sent NSW window film installers a survey asking: would you get accredited if a requirement of the ESS was that a WERS For Film accredited installer had to install the film? Knowing industry uptake will help strengthen our case, and to all those who completed the survey, we appreciate your input.
If you are a flat glass window film installer in NSW, and you have not yet completed the survey, greatly appreciated if you could please follow this link.
Contact ally.cronan@optusnet.com.au if you’re keen to learn more.
A win for the New Zealand automotive film industry
In a positive step forward for NZ auto tinters, the government has passed an amendment into law which provides for a five percentage point tolerance when testing the 35% legal limit of aftermarket window film on MA (passenger class) vehicles. Wayne Anstis, long serving WFAANZ committee member, said, “Since the Glazing Rule came into effect in 1999 there have been no tolerances allowed in most instances, so this announcement is extremely well received by the NZ window film industry.”
Visit the Vehicle Inspection Portal on the Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency website for verification.
A visit to Propest Control in Papua New Guinea
Earlier this year WFAANZ treasurer Andrew Booth visited our one and only WFAANZ member in Papua New Guinea, Propest Window Tinting in Port Moresby.
Like many businesses in PNG, Propest is a multi faceted business that includes automotive, architectural and safety films, pest control, soil treatments and sanitary services. Pictured right is Andrew with Titan Geno, Propest Manager of Operations.
With its team of three window film installers, Propest is keen to learn more about the technical side of flat glass as they see it as having enormous potential in the future, especially considering the hot climate and the expense and unreliability of electricity in their region.
Slip solution tips
TIP 1: If the site or weather conditions have you stressed about extended drying time for your customer, to decrease the drying time 100% Isopropanol alcohol can be added to your water sprayer. The ratio is approximately 10% Isopropanol Alcohol to 90% water. You can purchase Isopropanol Alcohol from a local chemical supplier (not Bunnings or Officeworks as they won’t have 100% versions).
TIP 2: Don’t use Johnsons Baby Shampoo on security and safety film installation as it reduces the bond strength of the adhesive. WFAANZ advises use the slip solution recommended by the manufacturer – it’s usually cheaper anyway and is recommended for a reason.
SEA LIFE gets filmed
Ever had a turtle inspect your work?
Paragon transformed the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium’s Great Barrier Reef night effect tank when its team of five installers removed old, damaged film that had five vertical seams, and replaced it with two sheets, one 8100x1829mm that spanned the tank (with one horizontal seam at the top). The result – an unobstructed viewing surface for the sea creatures to watch the humans pass by.
Reduce energy, save money
“Around 40 per cent of household energy use in the average Australian home is for heating and cooling. The result is high power bills.” SBS News, 7 Sep 2023.
This is why increasing the thermal performance of existing windows with window film has such a direct and dramatic impact on electricity bills.
FEATURE
A new training framework
As a trade that is classified as unlicensed, having recognised credentials that speak to an installer’s knowledge and ability can be extremely valuable. That’s why in 2023 WFAANZ reshaped its training and certification program. Below, we explain what’s been done and what’s on the slate for next year, so you can decide if these programs are suited to you and your staff.
Architectural Window Film Certification (available now)
This training is for installers interested in consolidating and expanding their knowledge of the technical aspects of flat glass film installation. Also suited to sales and administration staff who would benefit from a solid grounding in all things flat glass film.
Previously called the WFAANZ Flat Glass Exam, the new certification program works like this:
- Participants attend an online workshop, training is presented then Q&A and peer discussion
- Topics include: solar energy, glass and windows, regulations and standards, window film, installation and industry standards
- After the session, participants are sent a PDF of the training deck, and are given logins for the online exam
- Participants qualify for certification once they pass the exam, and can then promote themselves as being certified by WFAANZ in architectural window film
- Open to members and non members of WFAANZ, although members are eligible for a significant reduction in training costs
Having your Architectural Window Film Certification is also a pre requisite of WERS For Film accreditation.
Download an enrolment form here or contact info@wfaanz.org.au for more info.
WERS For Film accreditation (available now)
With our sustainability committee working on initiatives that support and promote accredited installers, the incentives to gain WERS For Film accreditation have never been stronger. Through the revised training module and materials, accreditation is easier, more achievable, and has broader applications than ever before. Here’s a snapshot of the new process:
- Online session trains installers on their roles and responsibilities as a WERS For Film Accredited Individual
- Participants receive a comprehensive grounding in the ways window film can be used to enhance the energy efficiency of a building
- This webinar is the second prerequisite to WERS For Film accreditation (the first being Architectural Window Film Certification described above)
- Topics include: Glass and windows, windows and energy, WERS For Film, and the role of a WERS For Film accredited individual
Download an enrolment form here or contact info@wfaanz.org.au for more info.
Why do I need it?
Even if you’ve been installing film for years, there’s always new information to be uncovered, and there’s something to be said for engaging in discussions with people who have skills and experiences different from your own. Consider too the marketing power of presenting your business and installers as having certification in different fields.
Dan Lazić, Eclipse Tint, who attended both the Architectural Window Film Certification workshop and the WERS For Film webinar this year, commented:
“Even though I’ve been tinting for years, I got a lot out of the WFAANZ training sessions, with info that I could immediately apply to my everyday work. One example is when a customer had a problem with her Low E coated glass. It had those black scratch lines that ran across the glass. The glazier had no idea how to fix it, and said it would cost her thousands to replace the glass. I had recently learnt at the WFAANZ workshop about Hydrochloric Acid being one of the techniques you can use to clear up those scratches on Low E glass, and it worked a treat.”
What’s next?
WFAANZ will roll out another two certification programs using this same format: Automotive Window Film Certification, followed by Safety & Security Film Certification. Other one-off webinar sessions will be organised as required, including an AS/NZS 2208 update when the new standard is released in 2024.
ASK AWAY
We are a preschool in Pennant Hills, and the building is reasonably old. The windows were modified with film years ago and we were told they complied with safety regulations. However, we recently had a local glazier do a quote, and he was certain that they do not comply anymore. Could you let me know what is the best way to proceed to make sure we comply with regulations?
Without knowing what film was applied and when, it is incredibly difficult to gauge if it is compliant safety film that brings the glass up to meet the Grade A Safety Standard. Regardless of the film, however, the fact that each pane of glass does not have a safety label (applied by the installer of the film at the time of installation) means that the windows are not classified as Grade A compliant.
The rules require safety labels, so our recommendation is to have a WFAANZ installer member remove and replace with compliant film, using the labels.
We have heard that the Safety & Security American standard ANSI Z97.1 can now be applied to our Australian standard AS2208/1996. Is this true?
This is not the case. Australia chose to adopt some parts of Z97.1 in AS/NZS 2208, but AS/NZS 2208 is the one referenced in the NCC of Australia. Please note this standard is currently ‘pending revision’.
I’m interested in getting my business accredited in WERS For Film and wanted to know if I needed get all my installers accredited or just me?
You do not need to be the installer of the film to issue a WERS For Film certificate, so WFAANZ suggests that a business need only have one WERS For Film accredited individual. As long as that individual is assured the right film has been installed according to the WERS process, they can issue the WERS certificate at the conclusion of the job.
MEMBERS
Welcome new members
Total Tint Solutions Wangara Total Tint Bendigo One Group Projects Northside Window Tinting Joy Window Tinting Melbourne Car Window Tinting Excel Visual Solutions Tint A Car Canberra Shaws Window Tinting Filmscene Window Tinting
FABWRAPS Isa Glass Tinting Next Level Window Tinting Class One Tinting Creative Blinds Toowoomba Executive Window Tint Apex Window Tinting Only Tints Print Hub
Helen Moss joins WFAANZ
Most of you would have already met (over phone or email) the new WFAANZ Administration and Membership Officer Helen Moss. Helen’s hours are Tuesday – Friday, 9-5pm, and she can be contacted on info@wfaanz.org.au and 02 9160 4736 with all administrative and membership support enquiries.
With over 20 years’ experience as an Executive Assistant, Helen has an impressive background providing critical support for executive management leaders in Australia’s largest media, advertising, and financial institution industries.
Having commenced with WFAANZ in May 2023, Helen draws on her extensive experience, applying her fine-tuned analytical and organisational abilities to deliver exceptional service to our members.
A picture of Low E
There are some tricky concepts to explain when talking about window film with your customers. The impact of Low E film on heat transfer is one of those concepts.
That’s why WFAANZ designed a series of diagrams to visually depict how Low E film helps keep heat inside a room on cold days and at night when it’s colder outside.
Q&A Facebook graphic series
We’ve designed a series of Facebook graphics that answer commonly asked questions about window film, according to Google search. Members: these can be tailored with your logo and contact info, contact me if you’re interested ally.cronan@optusnet.com.au.
Stephen Borton, Saint-Gobain Solar Gard
What you love about the industry: Definitely always something new to learn and advances to be made.
Why you joined the committee: To help stay on top of the rules and regs and also to help customers.
Favourite pastime outside of work: Family time and golf.
Aaron McCarthy, TintFX Group Pty Ltd
What you love about the industry: The results and benefits that window film gives, and the quick transformation window film provides for clients
Why you joined the committee: To share information and knowledge throughout the industry
Favourite pastime outside of work: Boating with friends and family
Wayne Anstis, MEP Films (NZ) Ltd
What you love about the industry: A/.Providing our customers and ultimately consumers with a quality durable beneficial product. B/. The supportive team of small business owners and real Kiwi battlers that I have as customers.
Why you joined the committee: A mandatory position in my role as MEP Films Representative for New Zealand.
Favourite pastime outside of work: Motorcycling, both classic motorcycle racing (3 x NZ Champion in class), and touring rides around NZ with a group of old former competitors and friends.
Chris Wingard, AlpineTint
What you love about the industry: I have an interesting background story in that I’m qualified Computer Systems Engineer and held a few different Senior Executive roles in Melbourne before making the treechange and moving to North East Victoria to start AlpineTint. I’ve never been one to do things in halves so I spent a lot of time understanding the industry to ensure I could do my job as best as I could.
Why you wanted to be part of the WFAANZ committee: In speaking with a few members of the committee, given my background and my passion for the industry it was suggested I accept a nomination. I think the industry can be quite misunderstood so I’m keen to lend my skills to help WFAANZ promote the industry and some of the amazing people and work done in it.
What’s your favourite pastime outside of work: When I’m not working I’m spending time with my wife and daughters, out on the boat or cooking up storm in the smoker – gotta love a low and slow brisket!
Adam Adair, 3M
What you like about the window film industry: Repurposing existing buildings is the most sustainable form of the built environment. The ability to upgrade existing glass facades in the Commercial or Residential setting (rather than replace & sent to landfill!) is crucial in a world with finite resources. Whether this be for Energy Efficiency, Aesthetics, Human Comfort or even Safety & Security we can always improve what we currently have!
Why you joined the committee: 3M was a founding member of WFAANZ. At that time it was created to protect the very Window Film industry with a clear Voice & Education, ensuring clarity and representation at the highest levels. I believe now is its time of greatest importance! The word is: ‘Sustainability’ with increased Energy Efficiency, the drive to Net Zero Carbon emissions and helping reduce the pressures on increased Energy costs. The WFAANZ can help spread this message and make a real difference from the Corporate level down to the individual Home Owners.
Favourite pastime outside of work: I now have two grown daughters, so getting back to Saturday golf is a major pleasure (at times). I also love watching sports whether it be the Waratahs, Roosters, Sixers, F1 etc. the list goes on.
Paul Moore, The Tint Shop
What you love about the industry: I only participate in the Architectural market and this offers scope to work with a range of clients and products in a variety of environments. Whilst there is a challenge in every job, this aspect keeps the interest level up and as it is a visual product, you get to see the results. Client feedback always makes my day and makes it worth getting up the next morning. Really, would you do a job for 25 years if you did not still love it?
Why you joined the committee: Joining WFAANZ was a ‘no brainer’ for us. It supports our industry and communicates issues we need to be aware of, providing resources that we can tap into and was especially important in the early days. We find this as a key point of difference when dealing with clients. Joining the Committee was another ‘no brainer’ as it provides a forum to provide input from an Installer’s perspective. You also get to connect with others in the industry that you would not normally, and also to be better informed regarding issues and directions the industry is heading.
Favourite pastime outside of work: My 14 year old son, who I spend way too little time with, and I have also taken up drawing portraits which I find is a great escape.
To all our members –
Wishing all our members and their families a safe and happy festive season. Best of luck during this, the busiest time of year, as people rush to get their vehicles and homes tinted
in time for Summer and Christmas.
Looking forward to working with you all in 2024, where we set our sights on automotive film certification, advocacy programs and industry engagement all designed to grow the Trans-Tasman window film industries.
The WFAANZ secretariat office closes Friday 22 December
and opens again on Tuesday 9 January, 2024.
Warm regards,
Ally Cronan, WFAANZ President
