PROBLEM
The Province of British Columbia needed a state of the art building to facilitate the growth of Victoria’s thriving technology sector (VITP). The former Glendale Lodge Facility was a prime location, but had been largely vacant in years and in need of a major renovation. There were obvious economic and environmental benefits for developing the former Glendale Lodge facility. The use of existing windows saved on virgin material costs as well as diverted a large percentage of materials from landfills.

The existing windows in the centre wing as well as the bays of the north and south wings were all single pane glass. The expansive glass area allowed excessive solar heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. Total glass area was approximately 10,000 square feet. Architect Christopher Rowe (now with Cannon Design) needed to address the issues of heat gain and heat loss while maintaining the magnificent views and permitting natural lighting.

SOLUTION
After extensive product research, the architects called the experts at Titan Window Films of Victoria - an authorized 3M window film dealer for 3M Canada with over 25 years of experience. Doug Ritch of Titan recommended 3M All Season window films. “This Low E film reduces solar heat transmission by up to 69% while diffusing direct beam sunlight for daylight­ing applications. The film will also reduce heat loss in the winter months by up to 30%” commented Doug Ritch of Titan.

“By using 3M All Season films, we were able to achieve our building envelope energy targets and reuse many of the existing windows, which saved on new building materials and diverted landfill. We were able to incorporate 3M film into our whole building design strategy, helping us achieve our CGBC LEED™ GOLD certification (Canadian Green Building Council - LEEDS Accreditation)” commented Rowe.

Not only have the windows generated a significant reduction in materials and cost, it has also provided benefits to individuals working within the facility. “The all season window films have drastically reduced the glare on monitor screens, which has in return allowed our industry to work efficiently within their office space,” commented Greg Sikora, Senior Manager, Real Estate of VITP.

THE 3M DIFFERENCE
While the performance attributes of the 3M film were the main selling points, Rowe says he was also impressed with the support that came from 3M’s dealer: “3M provided excellent technical assistance. This project was a milestone of sustainable development in Canada, and they wanted to be sure we had all of the information we needed,” commented Rowe.