The quality of light in a home is not only a selling point, but a quality of life point too. Natural sunlight can make a space feel bright, welcoming, and livable like almost nothing else can. These benefits of a bright and sunny space though have one drawback. Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause permanent damage to a home’s interior. To combat this drawback, many homeowners and designers turn to window UV protection film to cut down on the destructive properties of UV rays. But, how well does it work? Let’s take a look at what window UV protection film can (and can’t) do and whether there’s a better option on the market.
What Kind of Damage Does UV Light Cause?
Before jumping into the ways to mitigate the damage of UV sunlight, let’s take a look at what kind of damage it can cause.
The UV rays in sunlight can cause damage to fabrics, wood, and vinyl materials. In addition, the heat generated from the sunlight can also cause damage. Sun-facing interiors can suffer fading and degradation to furniture, flooring, and walls. Over time, the colors on rugs, upholstery, and art can fade, and wood finishes and leather can yellow and crack. Most damage happens gradually, over months or years and can be difficult to catch until it is too late. Being proactive to combat this type of damage is usually best. Applying window UV protection film is one way to take a proactive step.
What Is a Window UV Protection Film?
There are two types of UV rays that are generated by sunlight, UVA and UVB. Window glass filters most of the UVB rays from penetrating through a window, but UVA rays can still make their way through the glass.
UV window film for interiors is a thin plastic film applied directly to window glass to filter the UVA rays and protect interior spaces of homes and commercial buildings. Its purpose is to filter a percentage of these harmful ultraviolet rays. This film is usually used to protect furniture from sun damage as well as the slow fading of other fabrics and degradation of flooring or wall materials. Applying window UV protection film to interior windows is a common tactic to provide UV protection for homes and offices.
Does UV Film Actually Work?
The effectiveness of window UV protection film depends on the quality, installation, and type of film that is used. On average, dyed films can block about 50 to 60 percent of UVA rays, while metalized films raise that percentage to an average of 80 or 90. More advanced ceramic films can block up to 99 percent of UVA rays. Dyed and metalized films do not offer heat protection, while ceramic films do offer some heat protection. This level of protection may not be enough for your furniture and floors, especially as a long-term solution.
If you are looking for commercial or residential sun protection, window UV film can be useful, but it also has its limitations, including the fact that the film:
- Can bubble or peel over time
- Doesn’t always block infrared heat
- Is not always ideal for historic buildings
- Can damage window glass, especially when removed
In addition, the performance of window UV protection film can depend heavily on several factors, including the quality of the installation, as already stated, as well as the glass type, and the climate where you live.
Longevity of Window UV Protection Film
Protective film can last between 5 to 10 years, depending on the type of film used. Dyed films last about 5 years, if installed properly while metalized films are more durable, lasting up to 10 years while ceramic films can last over 10 years. The lifespan of films also depends on the level of UV exposure they receive. In hot, sunny climates or climates with harsh weather conditions, films can degrade faster.
Of course, maintenance is a factor in the longevity of protective films too. Regular cleaning that refrains from the use of harsh chemicals can help lengthen a film’s lifespan.
With all of these factors to consider about the effectiveness of window UV protection film, is there an alternative that can provide better protection?
An Alternative: Interior Storm Windows with Built-In UV Protection
There are other proactive alternatives besides applying window films that can combat the damage of UVA rays. One of these alternatives is installing interior storm windows that have built-in UV protection. Custom window inserts offer thermal insulation, soundproofing, and UV protection in one system.
The custom thermal window inserts offered by Climate Seal provide window insulation with UV-filter capabilities. The Climate Seal window system blocks up to 99% of UV rays, making these interior storm windows for sun damage mitigation an ideal alternative to UV protection film.
Climate Seal window inserts are installed on the inside of existing window frames. The system is quick and easy to install and remove, which can be done in seconds, making them versatile and cost-effective. Once installed, the window inserts look invisible, making them aesthetically pleasing as well as effective, especially for historic homes and buildings when maintaining architectural integrity is top of mind.
The window inserts also require no adhesives to install, which can damage glass. In addition, the system adds insulation and soundproofing to your interior space, not just the filtering of UV light.
These added benefits can make a difference when looking to not only block UV rays from your interior spaces, but to also add to your properties’ energy efficiency, sound proofing, and architectural integrity.
UV Film vs. Climate Seal Inserts: What’s the Difference?
Comparing window UV protection film to Climate Seal’s custom window inserts can show you the pros and cons of each system in preventing UV damage and any added benefits each can provide.
| Feature | UV Protective Film | Climate Seal Custom Panel Inserts |
| UV Protection | Moderate | Up to 99% |
| Appearance | May tint glass | Crystal clear |
| Installation | Requires adhesives, can cause damage | Removable, no damage |
| Bonus Benefits | None | Acoustic + thermal control |
| Suitable for Historic Windows | Often not | Yes |
Who Should Consider a UV Window Solution?
So, is finding a window UV protection solution right for your home or office? Not all spaces require UV protection, but for some properties finding the right system can be ideal to mitigate the harmful effects of UV rays.
Level of Sun-Exposure
You may want to consider investing in a UV protection system if your home has large, sun-exposure windows or your commercial property has large windows that can sun-soak a lobby, gallery, conference room, or office.
Expensive Investments
It may also be necessary for art collectors, musicians, antique owners or other proprietors who have expensive collections or equipment that require protection.
Type of Property
Rentals
Rental properties can also benefit from a system that is cost-effective, and quick and easy to install and remove, while also improving a building’s energy efficiency.
Historic Buildings
Above all, historic homes and buildings can benefit from a non-invasive UV protection system option, like Climate Seal window inserts. When maintaining the architectural integrity of a property is a priority, finding a system that offers protection without damaging a property’s historical design is a priority too.
Window UV Protection Film: Is It Worth It?
Deciding whether window UV protection film is worth it means weighing several factors. It can help cut down on the damaging effects of UV rays, but its protection is only moderate and can cause possible damage to windows and is often not suitable for historic properties. For long-term protection, insulation, and versatility, Climate Seal’s interior panels are a smarter, more complete solution that can protect your space from fading, glare, and energy loss.
Learn more about Climate Seal’s custom window inserts or request a custom quote.
