>You are at about GlassGard
>Go to questions about window film

●What is GlassGard?
Often confused with what our product does, GlassGard is the name of our company, a Melbourne, Florida based 3M Authorized/Dealer Applicator.

●How long have you been operating in Brevard County?
GlassGard has been serving Brevard County homes and businesses since 1993. We are the oldest and original Brevard County 3M Dealer. Our dealer number is 3557 and was issued in 1993.

● Is GlassGard a franchise?
No, we are an independent dealership. We proudly represent 3M products. GlassGard follows 3M's strict installation protocol, attends regional and national dealer meetings and continuing education seminars. GlassGard is the cornerstone dealership in Brevard County.

● What do you mean when you refer to ‘Cornerstone Dealership’?
Donna Baker was awarded the original 3M Dealership here in Brevard County in 1993. At that time, with only 8 dealers in the entire state, 3M had no representation in Brevard County. Presently there are about 50 dealers statewide. Our ground breaking dealership, innovative advertising and community awareness campaigns educated Brevardians and, years later, opened the doors for other dealers.

● What experience does GlassGard base their expertise on?
GlassGard’s technicians have been installing film in Brevard County since 1986 and have over 30 years combined installation experience. GlassGard has thousands of residential applications in subdivisions throughout Brevard County. We also have numerous applications throughout Disney Properties, local military, airport and commercial facilities.  GlassGard has also worked closely with 3M on field testing new products and systems.

● What separates GlassGard from all others?
Honesty, integrity, long term local stability and our uncompromising commitment to customer satisfaction.

● What particular accomplishments or recognition have you received from 3M?
The only Premier Dealer Award ever issued for Brevard County was issued to GlassGard in 2001. We have also received the only Ultra Award and 100% Customer Satisfaction Awards. GlassGard was the only dealer in Brevard County selected to participate in the Ultraflex testing program -- only two dealers were selected nationwide!

● As a consumer, how can I check on GlassGard’s reputation?
We are members of the International Window Film Association, Melbourne-Palm Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, Better Business Council, Home Builders and Contractors Association, American Society of Interior Designers and a participating FPL Contractor. We will be happy to supply references from some of your neighbors, contacts for commercial accounts or contacts for 3M Corporate or the Florida 3M distributor.

● Where are you located?
Our corporate offices are located in historic downtown Melbourne at 713 E. Lincoln Avenue. Feel free to stop by our 3M Product Gallery, or call for an on site appointment or to schedule a group seminar.

● Do you use subcontractors? 
No. Our technical director and installation personnel are employees of GlassGard. No leasing agency or subcontract installers are used by GlassGard.  And we have no commissioned employees or piecework pay rates.

●  Are you insured?
Yes. GlassGard carries mandatory Workers Compensation insurance and General Liability. Certificates will be issued directly to you from our carriers upon request.

● Can you give me some examples of your work?
For specific information on residential, military or commercial projects please contact us for references.

About Window Film
● Does the film go on the inside or outside of the glass?
Film is applied to the interior surface of the existing glass. In some cases where the inside surface is textured, an exterior application is necessary,

● How do you attach the film to my window?
The film is carefully installed directly to the glass. The first step is to thoroughly clean the glass and frames. The film has an adhesive already applied at the factory, protected by a liner, which we remove prior to contact with the glass. There are no chemicals used. Towels and tarps are used to protect the surroundings. Drapes and window treatments are not affected and usually can remain in place. Upon completion, the area is restored to its original condition.

● Can I put film on double paned windows?
Yes. Independent tests confirm that the use of film is harmless to double pane glass. If the windows are new and have a manufacturers warranty, GlassGard can provide 3M warranty coverage on the Seal Failure portion of the warranty, as well as on the glass itself.

● What kind of warranty do you give?
We are fortunate to offer 3M products that come with a residential Lifetime Quality Promise, direct from 3M. This warranty assures that you will be completely satisfied with our products for the entire time you live in your home. If the product needs to replaced under the warranty there is absolutely no charge to you. All labor and materials are covered. Commercial warranties are limited to ten years.

● How long will film last?
Today's films from 3M can last as long as twenty years. Realistically, window in
high traffic areas, such as sliding doors, or kitchen windows may be replaced sooner. It is not unusual, however, that even these filmed windows will not be
replaced for at least ten years.

● How do I clean the windows after the film is installed?
3M films can be cleaned with any common window cleaning solution, including ammonia based products, such as Windex or GlassPlus. Use of a soft cloth or squeegee is recommended. The film surface is treated with an acrylic "hard coat" to protect the film and allows easy cleaning, without fear of scratching.

● How long will it take to finish my house?
We always try to finish your home in one day. If you have many French panes, or an unusually large installation, we may take slightly longer. Every effort is made to complete the job in one day and maintain our strict quality standards. Extremely large homes and commercial projects may require a longer installation time and would be scheduled for your convenience.

● Is there an energy credit for retrofitting a commercial building with film?
Yes, FPL provides an energy saving rebate for the application of 3M window film. The proven benefit of window film in reducing the air conditioning load on a building makes it possible to save on the energy usage. GlassGard will submit the necessary forms for you to obtain your rebate.

● Does the window film overlap the frame?
No, the film does not overlap the window or door frame. The film is installed right to the edge of the frame.

● What is the Ultraflex testing program you mention?
The testing program was completed in 1999. Only two dealers nationwide were selected to work side by side with 3M lab technicians to develop a special anchoring system for film to frame application.  Click for more information on Ultraflex.

● Is the film ever anchored to the window or door frame? 
Yes, in 1999 a 3M anchoring system was approved by Factory Mutual. This system is called the 3M Ultraflex Window System. Also, in some commercial applications a batten bar system is used.

● Are there any other approved 3M anchoring systems? 
No. Don't be misled, so called anchoring tape systems serve no purpose. There is no testing or performance data to support stretch tape as a viable alternative to Ultraflex. In addition, there are no super glues, gels or advanced systems approved by 3M for film anchoring. Use of a non approved system may void your warranty.

● How do I know which 3M film is right for my situation?
3M has a large selection of specific and multi purpose films. For the best possible solution, contact GlassGard for support and detailed specification of each film's performance levels.

<<< go to the top of this page

GlassGard would be honored to assist you with an analysis of your needs!  
If you would like more information on 3M's Scotchshield films, call GlassGard today!

For technical data and more detailed product information, please call (321) 726-6272, 
e-mail: fgi6272@aol.com, or visit our 3M PRODUCT GALLERY
at 713 E. Lincoln Avenue in Historic Downtown Melbourne!