The Invisible Threat
Ultraviolet radiation from the sun doesn’t just affect your skin when you’re outside—it enters through your windows and can damage your home’s interior and your family’s health. Understanding UV protection options helps you make informed window decisions.
Understanding UV Radiation
Types of UV Rays
- UVA: Passes through glass, causes fading and skin aging
- UVB: Mostly blocked by standard glass, causes sunburn
- UVC: Blocked by atmosphere, not a concern
Utah’s High UV Environment
Utah’s elevation means more intense UV exposure:
- 2,000+ ft higher than sea level in most areas
- Up to 25% more UV than coastal cities
- Clear skies mean more direct exposure
- Year-round concern, not just summer
How UV Damages Your Home
Fading
UV radiation fades:
- Hardwood floors
- Carpets and rugs
- Furniture upholstery
- Window treatments
- Artwork and photographs
- Wall paint and finishes
Material Degradation
Beyond color, UV breaks down:
- Wood finishes
- Fabric fibers
- Leather
- Plastics
- Paper and books
Health Considerations
Indoor UV Exposure
Standard windows allow significant UVA:
- Contributes to skin aging
- Can cause skin damage
- Potential cancer risk with extended exposure
- Particular concern for those spending time near windows
At-Risk Situations
Higher concern for:
- Home offices near large windows
- Sunrooms and conservatories
- Rooms with south or west exposure
- Children’s play areas near windows
Window UV Protection Options
Low-E Glass Coatings
Low-E glass provides excellent UV protection:
- Blocks up to 95% of UV radiation
- Invisible coating
- Preserves natural light appearance
- Standard on quality modern windows
Laminated Glass
The plastic interlayer in laminated glass:
- Blocks virtually all UV (up to 99%)
- Provides security benefits
- Reduces noise
- Holds glass together if broken
Tinted Glass
Tinting reduces UV transmission:
- Various tint levels available
- Also reduces visible light
- Affects appearance
- Less common for residential
Window Film
Retrofit option for existing windows:
- Various UV blocking levels
- Can be added to any window
- More affordable than replacement
- May affect appearance
Comparing Protection Levels
| Glass Type | UV Blocked |
|---|---|
| Single clear | 25-30% |
| Standard double | 40-50% |
| Low-E double | 90-95% |
| Low-E laminated | 99%+ |
Choosing the Right Protection
Standard Living Spaces
Low-E double-pane provides:
- Excellent UV protection
- Energy efficiency
- Cost-effective solution
- Most common choice
High-Value Spaces
Consider laminated glass for:
- Art gallery areas
- Rooms with valuable furniture
- Extensive sun exposure
- Additional security needs
Retrofit Solutions
For existing windows:
- Add window film
- Install UV-blocking shades
- Use awnings for exterior shade
- Consider storm windows
Beyond Windows
Complement window protection with:
- UV-filtering window treatments
- Furniture placement away from direct sun
- Rotation of exposed items
- UV-protective coatings on floors
The Bottom Line
Utah’s high-altitude environment makes UV protection particularly important. Modern windows with Low-E glass provide excellent protection for your furnishings, floors, and family. When choosing new windows, always specify quality Low-E coatings.