Most of us realize the importance of wearing sunscreen before going outside to protect our skin from the dangers of the sun. However, we often forget that we are still exposed to ultraviolet radiation to some degree when indoors. Although windows provide some protection from UV rays, they don’t block them out completely. Not only does ultraviolet radiation cause premature aging, but it also can lead to dangerous skin cancers such as melanoma. While wearing sunscreen indoors is one option to protect yourself, it’s not very practical. However, a much more convenient alternative is UV protection window film.
Benefits of UV Protection Window Film
UV protection window film offers several benefits for both residential and commercial applications:
- Blocks UV Radiation
- Fights Fading
- Saves Energy
- Improves Comfort
- Retains Natural Light
Blocks UV Radiation
Ultraviolet radiation causes 80% of visible signs of aging and 90% of all skin cancers. Window film blocks 99% of damaging UV rays, providing almost complete protection from the sun. Along with safeguarding occupants, UV protection film also helps prevent fading, as UV rays contribute to 40% of fading. In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends window film in residential and commercial buildings as well as vehicles for its UV-blocking properties.
Fights Fading
Along with ultraviolet radiation, solar heat and visible light are two of the main contributors to fading, together making up 50% of the fading process. UV window film doesn’t just fight against fading by blocking nearly all UV rays, but it also filters visible light and reflects up to 78% of solar heat. Flooring, furniture, artwork, and other valuables are all prone to fading, reducing their longevity and diminishing their appearance over time. With UV protection window film, you can protect your valuables and extend the life of your furnishings by mitigating the top three causes of fading.
Saves Energy
By reducing solar heat, UV window film helps save energy. Not to mention, it makes it easier to maintain comfortable temperatures. This means less fiddling with the thermostat, reduced strain on your HVAC system, and lower energy bills. Some window tints, such as Low-E film, can also help provide insulation along with solar heat rejection.
Improves Comfort
Window film doesn’t just provide occupant protection, but it also improves comfort. Along with keeping spaces at a comfortable temperature, darker tinted UV film minimizes glare. Glare isn’t just annoying, but it can lead to eyestrain and headaches. Although it’s useful in reducing glare at home, UV film with a darker tint is especially beneficial in office buildings where the sun casts glare across computer screens while employees are trying to work.
Retains Natural Light & Outdoor Views
One of the best things about UV film is that it offers protection from the sun while retaining outdoor views and a portion of natural light. Curtains and blinds might be able to block out UV rays but at the cost of natural light and exterior visibility. UV window film offers a defense against harmful UV rays without completely eliminating your view or blocking the light.
Invest in UV Protection Window Film for Your Space
There’s a reason the Skin Cancer Foundation suggests window film as a protective measure for residential and commercial buildings. To learn more about how you can protect your home or commercial space, talk to our window film experts today! We’re happy to walk you through the process and provide you with a free quote.
ESP Window Tinting & Graphics has been Louisville’s premier window tinting and custom graphics provider since 1974. We serve both the residential and commercial markets, providing customized solutions with the goal of delighting our clients. Our window film and graphics products offer enhanced aesthetics and improved functionality to your spaces. Contact us today for a free consultation and quote.