Window Film and Hurricane Issues
Window Film and Hurricane Issues
Washington, D.C. – June 26, 2026 – The summer heat has arrived in the United States, and with it a collage of severe and extreme weather. Hurricanes beginning to make their way across the Atlantic Ocean, severe thunderstorms striking nearly any region of the country, and prolonged periods of extreme heat all place additional strain on homes, businesses, and vehicles. High winds, heavy rain, and dangerous ultraviolet (UV) exposure become seasonal concerns for millions of Americans.
Window films have become an increasingly popular retrofit solution for addressing some of these challenges. Professionally installed films can help reduce solar heat gain through glazing, improve interior comfort, and lessen the workload placed on air conditioning systems during periods of sustained heat. Many films also block up to 99 percent of UV radiation, helping to protect both the occupants and the interior from these harmful rays. Window films, however, are not a final solution to severe weather hazards. Like all retrofit products, they have limitations in the amount of protection they can provide.
Perhaps the most persistent misconception this time of year is the marketing claim of “hurricane proof” window films. No applied film can make a standard window “hurricane proof.” True hurricane-resistant glazing systems achieve their performance through a combination of specialized glass, framing, anchoring systems, and rigorous testing. While certain safety and security films may contribute to a window system’s overall performance and can reduce the hazard posed by flying glass shards, they do not eliminate the possibility of glass breakage, frame failure, water intrusion, or structural damage during a major storm.
The IWFA has conducted studies which can be found on our website under the “Resources” tab that outlines the dangers of this type of false advertising specific to Florida. The goal of the study then is the same as it is now: to protect the public from erroneous claims of the capabilities of window films.
As an IWFA member, our dealers must agree to by our Advertising Policy that aims to protect the good of the industry. Our members understand the importance of ethical advertising of the true capabilities of window films, and how they can help consumers. The aim of these Guidelines is to provide an even playing field to all offering window film products to the public, no matter their geographic location. If you are looking to have window film installed, visit our Dealer Locator to find an IWFA member near you!
About The International Window Film Association
The International Window Film Association (IWFA) is a nonprofit industry body of window film dealers, distributors, and manufacturers that facilitates the growth of the window film industry through education, research, advocacy and public awareness. When you look for window film, look for the IWFA logo. Follow along for news from the IWFA on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.
