Ultaviolet (UV) Radiation and Fading

The sun has electromagnetic radiation and invisible ultravoilet (UV) radiation represents only about 3% of the energy being transmitted in normal sunlight.  However, these powerful rays are primary cause for fading and deterioration of valuable and expensive interior furnishings.  Exposure to UV rays has been linked to melanoma, a potentially deadly form of skin cancer.  Over-exposure to ultraviolet radiation causes premature aging of the skin, and is a contributory factor to cataracts and other eye disorders.

Fading is a complex issue because each and every material has a different propensity to degrade from exposure to ultraviolet radiation and other contributory factors.  For example, wood is extremely vulnerable to fading, from sunlight (both visible and invisible light affects fading).  Different types of hardwood floors have varying tolerance levels of fading from exposure to sunlight.

It is generally accepted that UV radiation can be responsible for roughly 40% – 60% of all fading.  In addition to ultraviolet radiation, other factors that cause fading include:

1. Normal sunlight and indoor artificial lighting (portions of visible wave length band) also cause fading.

2. Humidity/Moisture

3. Poor dye fastness in the fabric

4. Chemical vapors in the air

Note:  It is impossible to stress that no window film or glazing product will totally prevent or stop fading.

Facts about Fading – What causes fading?  ”As a rule of thumb”

 

• 40% of UV Light

• 25% Heat

• 25% Visible Light

• 10% Misc.

Improved Protection from Shattered Glass:

Both Solar control and safety film (to a much greater extent) provide protection against the effects of glass breakage, helping to prevent glass that has been shattered from flying dangerously through the air causing personal injury or property damage.

Light and Glare Reduction

Solar Film reduces the amount of visible light being transmitted through glass.  This product offers several related consumer benefits:

• Reduced glare

• Increased level of privacy

• Improved comfort and working conditions

• Improved visual appearance for window display merchandise

 

 

Solar Heat Control

Solar control window film reduces the transmittance of light and infrared heat through glass windows and doors thereby reducing heat gain.  This feature provides the following basic consumer benefits:

A. Improves energy cooling efficiencies

B. Reduces energy consumption and utility cost

C. Improves living comfort and working conditions

D. Balances hot and cold spots in the building

Ultra Violet Radiation Control

Solar control films contain ultraviolet absorbers which will reduce the amount of ultraviolet radiation being transmitted through glass doors and windows. Both visible light and ultraviolet radiation are important caused in affecting fading to floors, carpets, draperies, and other furnishings for the home or workplace.  Solar control films can prolong the appearance and life of window display merchandise.