Most of us enjoy a day where there’s not a cloud in the sky and the sun is brightening up the day and our moods. But the sun brings in harmful rays, too, which is why you find UV window film on cars, homes, and commercial buildings. In the UK, a study found that 9 out of 10 cases of melanoma could have been prevented if the patient had practiced sun safety. UV window film acts as a “sunscreen” to block the UV rays that cause certain types of cancer. It also protects your furniture, carpet, artwork, and other items from constant exposure to the sunlight. There are a lot of benefits to UV window film as you can see. But you’re probably wondering how film actually works and what UV rays are. Let’s explore these topics below.
How It Works
UV window film is self-adhesive and made out of polyester film that can be applied to glass surfaces. It can be applied to existing glass that’s on a home, car, etc. Aside from offering sun control, UV window film can also improve the appearance of the existing glass. Window glass primarily acts as a barrier from wind, snow, and other external elements. However, it does not prevent solar energy or sunlight, however, from transmitting almost 90 percent of its energy through the glass. UV window film reflects or absorbs the harmful rays using special metals, dyes, or nano technology that can either reflect or absorb.
Breaks Down Harmful UV Rays
The sun actually emits three different types of light:
- UVC - The ozone absorbs this UV ray which is the shortest of the three UV rays and not considered a skin cancer risk .
- UVB - This is the main cause of sunburn and skin reddening; the intensity depends on the season.
- UVA - This type makes up 95 percent of the UV radiation that comes down to the earth; it can penetrate glass.
The UVA rays are unfriendly light which, although they are only about 10 percent of the sunlight output, are the most powerful and damaging to our health. UVA rays can lead to health problems, and too much exposure can lead to skin cancer. Since they radiate through glass, you are still at risk when you’re in your home or office. Furniture and other items that are exposed is also vulnerable to these rays. Items that are receivingto sunlight through a window every day will fade over time due to these rays. UV window film can block over 90 percent of these harmful rays, reducing exposure to them.
Acts as a Sunscreen
The type of window film you select will determine how much of the heat and light is rejected. Film is specially designed and created using materials such as nichrome, ceramics, and charcoal to help it filter out these rays. Applying it to your windows will provide you with the peace of mind of knowing you're protecting your family, carpet, and furniture from being affected by these harmful UV rays. It’s an investment toward your health and that of your loved ones, in addition to the longevity of your furnishings. After all, it’s not cheap to replace carpets that have faded or furniture that’s been overexposed to the sun.
Regulates Heat & Light
Another benefit of UV window film is that it can help regulate the heat and light that enter a space. By minimizing the amount of heat and light, your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard to keep your home cool. It reduces the amount of wear and tear that is put on these appliances and also saves you money by lowering your energy bill. Upwards of 75 percent of solar heat is rejected with the use of film on windows. A study by Boston College found that applying window film would reduce a building’s energy costs by 5 to 15 percent.
Protect Your Home With Atlantic Sun Control
Installing UV window film should be done by an experienced professional to ensure the best results. Atlantic Sun Control can provide you with the help that you need with your window film project. We serve a 75-mile radius area around the D.C. metro area. We’ve been serving clients since 1991 and are one of the most reputable and largest window film dealers in the country. Our prices are reasonable and competitive to easily fall within your budget. All of our jobs are insured and we’re dedicated to providing you with high-quality solutions that meet your needs. Atlantic Sun Control is a member of a variety of organizations, including the International Window Film Association, American Automobile Association, the Better Business Bureau, and the Property Management Association. Contact us at 703-687-0154 to learn more about our products, receive an estimate or learn more about improving your indoor space with window film.