Materials and finishes for soft glass laminates

At the base of every soft laminate is a thin plastic film , usually made of high-quality polyester or PVC, coupled with an adhesive and a protective layer. This structure allows the laminate to be applied directly to the glass surface, from the inside or outside depending on the product, creating a new "skin" without modifying the window frame.

The first large family is that of decorative and privacy laminates. This category includes frosted/etched films that transform transparent glass into opaque yet luminous surfaces, ideal for bathrooms, walk-in closets, office windows, and interior doors. The effect is that of etched or sandblasted glass, with the advantage of being removable or replaceable in the future. Alongside these are striped and geometric laminates with subtle patterns that partially block the view while allowing light to pass through.

Another important family is solar control laminates . These films are designed to reduce incoming heat, filter some IR and UV rays, and improve comfort in environments exposed to the sun. There are more or less reflective versions (mirror-like during the day, more neutral, slightly smoky) and virtually invisible products that target UV radiation rather than visual perception.

The primary function of safety/shatterproof laminates is to retain fragments in the event of glass breakage. They essentially transform plain glass into something more similar to laminated glass, improving protection against accidental impacts and reducing the risk of glass shattering into dangerous shards. In settings such as schools, public spaces, and shop windows facing the outside, these products add a level of safety often required by regulations or best practices.

There's no shortage of specific anti-UV laminates, designed to protect furniture, wooden floors, fabrics, and window displays from yellowing and discoloration. In many cases, this function is also integrated into decorative or solar control films, but there are particularly high-performance versions where UV protection is a priority.

Aesthetically, in addition to the classic satin and neutral finishes, soft laminates include solid colors, gradients, mirrored effects, fabric or metallic finishes , and even custom printed solutions. This allows glass to be used as a true design surface, not just a simple transparent element.

The choice of laminate depends on what you want to achieve: more privacy? Less glare? Impact protection? Internal temperature control? Decoration? Often, the best solution is a combination of needs: for example, a satin film that provides privacy while simultaneously attenuating some of the sun's rays, or a slightly smoked safety film that also improves lighting comfort.