Glass-heavy buildings may look modern and inviting, but they often come with a hidden challenge: heat gain.
When sunlight pours in unchecked, it raises indoor temperatures, forces HVAC systems to work harder, and creates glare that disrupts productivity.
For large institutions, finding an effective solution is about efficiency and long-term savings. That’s why many organizations are turning to commercial window film for heat reduction and energy efficiency.
At Howard University, one of the nation’s most prestigious historically Black universities, this challenge became particularly clear in the Interdisciplinary Research Building (IRB).
The structure’s beautiful glass architecture was causing significant heat and glare problems, making the interior uncomfortable for faculty, staff, and researchers.
To solve the issue, Howard partnered with AP Corp to implement a window film solution that combined performance, aesthetics, and energy benefits.
The Problem: Heat Gain and Glare in a Glass-Heavy Building
Howard University’s IRB was designed with impressive glass panels that allow natural light to stream into the space. While visually striking, the design created several pain points:
- Excessive heat gain – Interior spaces grew uncomfortably warm during peak sun hours.
- Glare issues – The brightness made it difficult for building occupants to work comfortably.
- Energy waste – HVAC systems had to overcompensate to maintain a stable temperature.
- Design constraints – Any solution had to maintain natural light and avoid a “blackout” appearance.
Adding to the complexity, the building featured inset ceilings with glass extending beyond the ceiling level, making access difficult.
To top it off, the installation had to take place on an active construction site, requiring strict safety compliance and precise scheduling.
The Solution: LLumar Vista Ultima V14
After consultations and mock-up testing, AP Corp recommended LLumar Vista Ultima V14, a high-performance film from the exclusive LLumar Select Pro line.
This wasn’t an off-the-shelf choice; it was specifically designed to meet the university’s goals.
Performance highlights:
- Nearly 80% solar energy rejection, dramatically reducing heat gain
- Significant glare reduction without blocking natural light
- Reflective quality for privacy and a sleek architectural look
- Enhanced comfort without compromising visibility
Bill, AP Corp’s CEO, explained it this way:
“A lot of the window films we have are virtually clear, and they can block up to 80% of the heat coming through the glass. That’s exactly what Howard wanted — to filter out the heat while still letting in the light.”
Installation Challenges and Precision Work
Installing film in a university research facility wasn’t as simple as applying material to glass. The project demanded technical expertise and logistical planning:
- Inset ceilings: Specialized equipment was required to reach glass panels extending above the ceiling.
- Large-scale glass surfaces: Seamless application across expansive panes was crucial to maintain aesthetics.
- Active construction site: Crews followed strict PPE requirements and safety protocols.
- Time sensitivity: Work had to align with the renovation timeline to avoid disruption.
As Bill noted:
“It’s not just about putting the film up on the glass… the logistics, figuring out how to execute, how to do it safely, proficiently, and efficiently is really where all those things intersect.”
Why Window Film Was the Best Fit
For a building like Howard University’s IRB, traditional solutions such as blinds or blackout shades would have solved glare but introduced new problems:
- Reduced natural light
- Blocked the exterior views
- Created a dark, less welcoming environment
- Potentially interfered with HVAC and lighting balance
In contrast, window film for heat reduction and energy efficiency addressed every need at once: it lowered heat gain, reduced glare, maintained natural light, and preserved the building’s architectural design.
It also offered privacy through its reflective surface, further enhancing the building’s usability.
Long-Term Benefits for Howard University
The completed installation provided immediate improvements and long-term advantages:
- Energy savings: With nearly 80% solar energy rejection, cooling systems no longer need to run at full tilt.
- Occupant comfort: Students and faculty could work in a cooler, glare-free environment.
- Aesthetic upgrade: The reflective facade added a sleek, professional look.
- Privacy enhancement: The film provided subtle privacy without darkening the glass.
The success of the project reinforced Howard University’s commitment to sustainability and comfort while protecting its investment in modern facilities.
Why AP Corp’s Approach Made the Difference
This wasn’t just a matter of installing film; it was about crafting a tailored solution. We brought several advantages to the project:
- Exclusive access: As a LLumar Select Pro dealer, AP Corp could offer products unavailable to standard installers, including extended warranties.
- Proven experience: With a 20+ year partnership with Eastman (the manufacturer), AP Corp had the technical expertise to handle complex projects.
- Collaborative process: The team worked closely with Howard’s facilities managers, conducted mock-ups, and demonstrated real-world heat reduction before proceeding.
- Quality control: Regular audits, certifications, and adherence to Select Pro program standards ensured the installation met the highest expectations.
This combination of expertise, resources, and partnership ensured the university got exactly what it needed and more!
Conclusion: Smarter Energy Solutions Through Window Film
Howard University’s Interdisciplinary Research Building now stands as an example of how smart building upgrades can improve comfort, efficiency, and aesthetics all at once.
With the right solution, glass-heavy architecture doesn’t have to mean overheated interiors or wasted energy.
If your organization is considering window film for heat reduction and energy efficiency, AP Corp can help you evaluate your building, select the ideal product, and handle every detail of installation.
Like Howard, you’ll end up with a space that feels better, looks better, and performs better for years to come.
Book a consultation with us today!