3M Low E

Product overview

Stop solar energy at the
outside surface.

3M Prestige Exterior Series brings multilayer optical film technology to the outside surface of suitable residential and commercial glazing.

More than 200 microscopic layers selectively manage solar energy while allowing visible light through. The non-metalised construction provides solar performance without corrosion, signal interference or a harsh mirrored appearance.

Best for Complex glazing, selected double-glazed and Low-E systems, inaccessible interiors, coastal properties and buildings where natural appearance and clear views are priorities.

Why choose Prestige Exterior?

Exterior performance without
metallic-film compromises.

The range combines strong solar control, high visible light transmission and low reflectivity in an exterior-grade film.

HEAT
Exterior solar control

Manages solar energy at the outside surface before it enters the occupied space.

LIGHT
Preserves natural light

High-transmission options maintain bright interiors and clear views while delivering useful solar control.

SIGNAL
No signal interference

Non-metalised construction will not interfere with mobile phone, Wi-Fi, GPS or 5G signals.

COAST
Resists corrosion

With no metal layers to corrode, Prestige Exterior is well suited to demanding environments, including coastal properties.

The Prestige Exterior range

Four levels of light
and solar control.

Lower-numbered films provide stronger solar and glare control. Higher-numbered films preserve more daylight and create less visible change.

MAXIMUM CONTROL
PR20X

The strongest solar and glare control for heavily exposed glazing.

  • 66% solar energy rejected on clear glass
  • 21% visible light transmitted
  • 77% glare reduction
BALANCED CONTROL
PR40X

A balanced solution for meaningful heat reduction and moderate daylight.

  • 61% solar energy rejected on clear glass
  • 42% visible light transmitted
  • 53% glare reduction
HIGH DAYLIGHT
PR70X

Strong visible light transmission with useful solar performance and low reflection.

  • 52% solar energy rejected on clear glass
  • 71% visible light transmitted
  • 20% glare reduction
MAXIMUM LIGHT
PR90X

The clearest option for projects prioritising daylight, views and minimal visual change.

  • 36% solar energy rejected on clear glass
  • 88% visible light transmitted
  • 1% glare reduction
Product performance

Performance across modern
glazing types.

The figures below are based on the supplied 3M product data for nominal 1/4 inch glass configurations.

PR20X on double tinted glass
80%
Solar energy rejected normally
PR20X on double tinted glass
84%
Solar energy rejected at 60 degrees
PR90X on clear glass
88%
Visible light transmitted
All listed configurations
99.9%
UV light rejected
Glass typeFilmVisible light transmittedSolar energy rejectedRejected at 60°Solar heat reductionUV rejectedGlare reduction
ClearPR20X21%66%72%58%99.9%77%
ClearPR40X42%61%68%53%99.9%53%
ClearPR70X71%52%61%41%99.9%20%
ClearPR90X88%36%45%21%99.9%1%
TintedPR20X13%69%75%52%99.9%77%
TintedPR40X25%67%71%47%99.9%53%
TintedPR70X42%61%67%39%99.9%20%
TintedPR90X53%50%56%21%99.9%1%
Double clearPR20X18%76%82%66%99.9%77%
Double clearPR40X37%71%78%59%99.9%53%
Double clearPR70X63%61%70%45%99.9%20%
Double clearPR90X78%45%54%21%99.9%1%
Double tintedPR20X11%80%84%61%99.9%77%
Double tintedPR40X22%77%82%55%99.9%53%
Double tintedPR70X38%71%75%43%99.9%21%
Double tintedPR90X47%60%64%20%99.9%1%
Performance values are based on the supplied 3M technical data. Final results depend on the existing glass, coatings, building orientation and installation conditions.
Complex glazing applications

An exterior option for glass that needs careful film selection.

Double glazing, laminated glass and Low-E coatings can change the way solar energy and heat move through a window. An exterior film may be appropriate where an interior product could create an unsuitable thermal load or cannot be accessed.

Prestige Exterior should still be selected as part of the complete glazing system. Total Tint Solutions will review the glass construction, Low-E coating location, frame, seals, edge condition and exposure before recommending a product.

1
Identify the glass
Confirm whether it is clear, tinted, laminated, double glazed or Low-E coated.
2
Assess exposure
Review orientation, shading, wind, moisture and access to the exterior surface.
3
Specify the film
Select the compatible product and installation detail for the complete glazing system.
Where it works

Exterior performance for homes and commercial buildings.

Professional specification matches the product to the glazing, building conditions and required balance of heat control and natural light.

1
Double-glazed facades
Consider exterior solar control for compatible insulated glass units and complex modern glazing.
2
Low-E glazing
Provide an exterior option for suitable systems with Low-E coatings, subject to compatibility assessment.
3
Coastal properties
Use non-metalised film where corrosion resistance and lasting appearance are important.
4
Inaccessible interiors
Complete installation from outside where internal access would be disruptive or impractical.
5
Architectural homes
Reduce solar load while preserving daylight, clear views and a natural exterior appearance.
6
Commercial buildings
Improve comfort and solar control across offices, retail, hospitality and public buildings.
Installation detail

Exterior durability depends on
correct installation.

  • Confirm glass and coating compatibility
  • Prepare the exterior surface correctly
  • Assess edges, seals and water exposure
  • Follow current 3M installation guidance
Technology advantage

Why multilayer optical
film matters.

Prestige Exterior selectively manages solar energy without relying on the metal layers used in many conventional reflective films.

1
More than 200 layers
Microscopic optical layers target selected wavelengths while allowing useful visible light to pass through.
2
Low reflectivity
Maintains a natural exterior and reduces the strong daytime mirror effect associated with silver films.
3
Angle-responsive performance
The listed solar-energy rejection increases as the sun strikes the glazing at a higher angle.
Talk to a film specialist

Is Prestige Exterior right
for your glazing?

Speak with Total Tint Solutions about your glass, Low-E coatings, solar exposure and access requirements.

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            FAQ

            Frequently Asked Questions

            Exterior installation allows the film to manage solar energy at the outside surface of the glazing. It is particularly useful where an interior installation is unsuitable or inaccessible.

            The supplied 3M data includes clear, tinted, double clear and double tinted configurations. Every installation still requires a compatibility check covering the exact glass, coatings, frame, seals and exposure.

            Prestige Exterior can be considered for suitable glazing with Low-E coatings, including projects where the coating or glass construction makes an interior film less appropriate. The complete glazing system must be assessed before selection.

            The Prestige Exterior Series uses non-metalised multilayer optical film technology, so it does not create the signal interference associated with some metallic films.

            The 3M brochure states that edge sealing is not generally required, except where water can pool at the edge of the film. Installation details must follow current 3M guidance and site conditions.

            PR90X provides the highest visible light transmission. On the clear glass configuration listed by 3M, it transmits 88% of visible light while rejecting 36% of total solar energy at normal incidence.