How DefenseLite’s Venting Systems Reduce Solar Heat Gain & Condensation in Windows
DefenseLite is One of the Best Ways to Reduce Solar Heat Gain and Condensation Buildup
Condensation in windows can cause major issues for property-owners. Engineered venting is a necessity if you are considering a retrofit overglaze system for building comfort or enhanced safety from forced entry and ballistic attack.
DefenseLite, a retrofit polycarbonate security glazing system, can help with its patented venting system. This custom system properly climatizes the newly created airspace and drastically reduces the chance for condensation buildup on windows. Read on to learn how DefenseLite’s system leverages the scientific principles of Boyle’s Law, then dive into the specific ways our system reduces condensation and solar heat gain.
- Inside DefenseLite’s Patented Venting System
- How DefenseLite Reduces Condensation on Windows
- How DefenseLite Reduces Solar Heat Gain in Windows
Inside DefenseLite’s Patented Venting System
DefenseLite is a retrofit clear security glazing system, designed for durable glass window & door security. The system is 250 times stronger than glass, nearly invisible once installed and an affordable solution that works to mitigate criminal attacks. When installed, the DefenseLite Forced Entry Prevention System creates an “over-glaze” condition wherein a new air cavity to the glazing structure is created. This condition will exist if DefenseLite is installed on the interior or exterior of any structure.
Without proper venting, this “sealed” air space would be under relentless attack from solar heat gain and temperature variations. Excited trapped air condenses to a vaporous form, leading pressure-caused condensation to form on the interior side of unvented overglaze systems.
While ordinary glass can conduct an electrical charge, none remains after removal of the charge. DefenseLite’s proprietary polycarbonate-based shield maintains a very slight static charge inherent to its composition — inadvertently acting as attractant to water molecules. Given enough static charge, vapor can condense to actual water without proper ventilation. In turn, DefenseLite utilizes a patented venting system to reduce condensation —using the principles of Boyle’s Law.
Applying Boyle’s Law
First discovered by Robert A. Boyle in 1662, Boyle’s Law states that the pressure and volume of a given mass of gas has an inverse relationship. In simple terms, this means gas will shrink to fit into a space, but the smaller it shrinks the more pressure it applies.
Utilizing Boyle’s law, DefenseLite offsets compression of normal air by implementing air release mechanisms. These mechanisms allow for the flow of conditioned (dry) air from inside the controlled structure through the dead air space back into the conditioned area. This cycle allows dry air to enter the air space negating condensation preventing molecular activity. Additionally, this balanced pressure greatly reduces solar heat gain therefore reducing thermal activity.
How DefenseLite Reduces Condensation on Windows
For “air” to convert to vapor under typical atmospheric pressure conditions, water vapor is continuously generated by evaporation and removed by condensation. Vapor is less dense than most other constituents of air, triggering convection currents that can lead to clouds.
This simplified means that when we apply an “escape mechanism” for air under Boyle’s Law, then no condensation can or will occur.
The amount of water vapor in the air of the DefenseLite captured space determines how frequently molecules will excite under solar heat gain or not. When a net evaporation occurs, the body of water will undergo a net cooling directly related. Balancing both air pressure and air movement are critical benefits offered with DefenseLite’s patented venting system.
Use DefenseLite to Reduce Condensation on Windows in Winter
Condensation can be a particularly potent issue for windows in the winter. As interiors are heated in cold months, windows tend to be the coldest areas of the building. When hot air from central heating comes in contact with cold glass, the air produces moisture, leading to increased levels of condensation compared to other seasons.
DefenseLite’s patented venting system is built to handle these conditions. From summer through winter, DefenseLite’s patented venting system minimizes condensation and keeps your windows clear. Our solution is effective year-round, meant for permanent installation over glass windows and doors. Additionally, DefenseLite Energy eliminates air infiltration through existing windows, resulting in over 30% energy savings in cold climates.
How DefenseLite Reduces Solar Heat Gain in Windows
Solar heat gain is a major cause of condensation in windows; in turn, reducing solar heat gain also reduces levels of condensation in window glass. Alongside venting, DefenseLite also bolsters high properties of heat reduction, making DefenseLite one of the best ways to both reduce solar heat gain in a building and minimize condensation.
DefenseLite Energy is made from heat reflective polycarbonate, preventing heat build-up by reflecting UV and infrared rays. Plus, unlike other solutions for solar heat reduction, DefenseLite still allows most visible light through — minimizing heat without sacrificing interior views and natural lighting.
Install DefenseLite for Minimized Condensation and Powerful Impact Resistance
Designed for protection and improved energy efficiency, DefenseLite is a versatile solution for commercial window glass and glazing, including curtainwall systems. With a seamless installation process, our expert team will install DefenseLite over existing glass without compromising existing aesthetics — only providing long-term energy and security benefits. Contact us today and protect your property from the risks of condensation.
