Does Privacy Glass Stop the Sun?

The primary function of privacy window film is to deliver one-way or two-way privacy for glass, so it shouldn't be assumed that privacy films will also serve to reduce the heat or stop the sun.

However, some privacy window films will deliver multiple benefits, including heat and glare reduction. 

Here's our guide to which privacy films will deliver what benefits.

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The lower part of the window in this bedroom has frosted privacy window film applied, giving a frosted or acid etched look.
Understanding privacy films for glass

Which privacy window films will also stop the sun?

Daytime one-way privacy window films are an effective way of delivering privacy for glass, while also allowing for a daytime view from the inside out.

This is achieved by the reflective external appearance that the window film takes on during the day. Passers by will see a reflection, while those inside will be afforded an uninterrupted view out.

The reflective nature of the film means that as well as daytime privacy, it will also reflect away a percentage of heat before it can pass through the glass and add to the internal temperature. These films will also reduce glare and will protect against UV rays and fading. 
Modern house exterior with large windows that have a mirrored window film applied to reduce heat and glare.
What can and can't be achieved with privacy window film

Which privacy window films will not stop the sun?

Frostbrite is one of the most popular privacy window film solutions. Once applied it gives standard glazing the appearance of frosted glass, blocking the view from both sides of the glass while also delivering a stylish new look. 

This film has not been designed to deliver any heat reducing properties, with the film diffusing the light instead of reflecting or rejecting solar energy.

Other privacy solutions such as solid coloured vinyl will block light and deliver a 24 hour two-way privacy solution, but should not be expected to reduce heat levels.

Our team are on hand to provide you with advice and guidance as to the best window film for your situation. Call us on 01494 794477 or email sales@windowfilm.co.uk. We'll be happy to help. 
Black metal-framed sliding window with frosted glass panels, shown installed on an exterior wall with a light-colored interior floor and wall visible.
  • Get expert advice on the privacy solution best suited to you
  • Combined privacy and solar control solutions available
  • Most privacy films will allow light to pass through glass
  • Professional window film installation service
Privacy and heat reduction window film options

Combining privacy and heat reduction window film

Privacy window films are intended to block the view, either one-way or two-way. Heat reduction films have a different focus, primarily to:

  • Reflect and absorb solar energy to reduce excess heat
  • Stop heat passing through glass
  • Cut down on glare
  • Protect against potentially harmful UV rays.

It is possible to install window films that deliver these benefits as well as privacy. Your options for films that deliver an element of privacy and solar control include:

  1. Reflective or mirrored window films
  2. Tinted window films
  3. Specialist frosted solar control film
A shopfront with four large glass panels, each of which has had tinted glare reduction window film applied, delivering a stylish dark appearance.
Expert advice on the correct window film solution

Speak to a window film expert

If you are interested in a window film that can deliver both privacy and solar control, our expert team will be able to advise you as to the correct film for your situation. 

Get in touch by calling us on 01494 794477, email sales@windowfilm.co.uk or fill out our contact form by tapping the button below. 
Two members of staff working at The Window Film Company headquarters

Get fresh inspiration for your project

Solar Control and Privacy Window Film for Huel in Hertfordshire
Solar Control for The Glasshouse Hotel
Solar Control for London Leisure Centre

Solar Control and Privacy Window Film for Huel in Hertfordshire

Location: Tring, Hertfordshire

Goal: Reduce heat and glare while introducing ground-floor privacy at Huel’s UK headquarters using a tailored commercial window film solution.

Results:

  • Reduced heat build-up and screen glare
  • Improved privacy at ground-floor level
  • Enhanced comfort for staff and visitors

The installation created a more comfortable working environment while improving privacy and maintaining a clean, professional appearance across the glazing.

Learn more

Solar Control for The Glasshouse Hotel

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

Goal: The project aimed to reduce heat build-up caused by extensive glazing. Solar control film was specified to improve comfort without altering the appearance.

Results:

  • Installed solar control film to over 300 panes of glazing.
  • Reduced heat gain, glare, and UV transmission.
  • Completed phased internal installation with minimal disruption.

This project demonstrates how solar control window film can effectively manage heat gain in large glazed spaces. Comfort is improved without compromising views or aesthetics.

Learn more

Solar Control for London Leisure Centre

Location: Dulwich, South East London

Goal: The project addressed rising internal temperatures caused by untreated rooflights. A solar control window film solution was specified to improve comfort without reducing natural light.

Results:

  • Installed solar control window film to rooflight glazing.
  • Reduced heat build-up while maintaining natural light.
  • Completed scaffold-assisted installation to high-level glass.

The installation highlights the benefits of solar control film on large rooflight areas. Heat build-up was significantly reduced without compromising daylight levels. A practical solution for busy leisure environments.

Learn more
Solar Control Film installation for a house in Warwickshire

Solar Control Film installation for a house in Warwickshire

Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire

Goal: Reduce excessive heat build-up within the property by installing a high-performance solar control window film solution that works with complex, shaped glazing.

Results:

  • Significant reduction in solar heat gain
  • Improved internal comfort
  • Effective solution for shaped glazing

The installation provided a noticeable reduction in heat while maintaining outward visibility during the day. The solution worked perfectly with the shape of the windows and avoided the need for impractical shading systems.

Learn more

Window film solutions for every situation

The Window Film Company is proud to offer an extensive range of window films, delivering solutions for issues such as excess heat, glare, fading, privacy, safety and security.

Thanks to our fully equipped print and graphics studio, we can also supply and install custom created graphics for application to glass and other surfaces.

Our fully trained Account Managers and advisors are on hand to ensure you fully understand all that's available and to make sure that you choose the right product for your project.

Give us a call on 01494 794477 or email sales@windowfilm.co.uk.

Window film being fitted by an installer of The Window Film Company, showing a branded van and window graphics.