Did You Know? : Modern Architectural Glass and UV Protection Limitations
1. Limited UV Blocking in Standard Low-E Glass
Did You Know? Standard low-E glass blocks only around 75% of UVB rays, but it is much less effective at blocking UVA rays, which can still penetrate the glass and cause long-term damage?
While Low-E glass is marketed as an energy-efficient solution, it’s primarily designed to reflect infrared (heat) radiation, not UV radiation. The thin metallic coating on Low-E glass does block some UVB rays, but UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and fading, can still pass through. This means that in spaces with Low-E glazing, UV radiation continues to penetrate, potentially leading to:
● Fading of furnishings, artwork, and flooring
● Skin damage for light-sensitive individuals
● Triggering of symptoms in people with photosensitive conditions
Many building owners assume their modern windows provide complete UV protection, but this isn’t the case. UV protective film can fill this gap by blocking up to 99.9% of harmful UV radiation.
2. Directional UV Exposure Variations
Did You Know? South-facing glass curtain walls can receive up to three times more UV radiation than north-facing windows in the Northern Hemisphere, especially during peak sunlight hours?
Building orientation plays a key role in UV exposure. In the Northern Hemisphere:
● South-facing glass: Receives the most direct sunlight and highest UV levels throughout the year.
● East-facing glass: Experiences intense morning UV exposure.
● West-facing glass: Faces strong afternoon and evening UV radiation.
● North-facing glass: Receives the least direct UV radiation but still allows diffuse UV penetration.
This directional variation means occupants in different parts of the same building experience different UV exposure levels. UV protection film installation can prioritize areas most exposed to UV rays, ensuring comprehensive protection across the building.
3. Large Glass Panes and Infrared Radiation
Did You Know? Larger glass panes are more likely to transmit both heat-generating infrared radiation and UV rays, even if they have some UV protection?
Modern architectural designs often feature massive glass surfaces for aesthetic appeal. But larger panes present challenges:
● The bigger the surface, the more radiation can penetrate.
● Thinner glass (required for structural reasons) offers less protection.
● Infrared radiation increases heat buildup in large glass areas.
Many modern UV protection films address both UV and infrared radiation, helping to:
● Block harmful UV rays
● Reduce infrared radiation that causes heat
● Improve energy efficiency and comfort
4. Energy Efficiency vs. UV Protection
Did You Know? Modern energy-efficient windows focus on thermal insulation but don’t provide sufficient UV protection?
While energy-efficient windows reduce heat gain, they don’t always block UV rays. Window ratings like U-factor, SHGC, and VT measure thermal performance but do not account for UV transmission. Even the most energy-efficient windows can still allow significant UV radiation to enter. UV protection films offer a solution without compromising on thermal performance.
5. Corner Office UV Hotspots
Did You Know? Corner offices with large windows can create UV 'hotspots' due to multiple light paths converging, intensifying UV radiation exposure at different times of the day?
Corner offices offer stunning views, but the unique geometry of these spaces can cause:
● Converging light paths that intensify UV intensity.
● Reflective surfaces from neighboring buildings amplifying exposure.
● Curved or angled glass focusing UV rays, similar to a magnifying effect.
UV protection films help mitigate these challenges, ensuring that even highly exposed spaces remain comfortable and usable for those sensitive to UV radiation.
6. Indoor UV Symptoms
Did You Know? Many people unknowingly experience symptoms of UV exposure indoors, especially through windows without sufficient UV protection?
Common symptoms triggered by indoor UV exposure include:
● Headaches and migraines
● Skin redness or rashes on exposed areas
● Eye strain
● Worsening photosensitive conditions
Indoor UV exposure is often misattributed to artificial lighting or screens, but the true source could be windows letting in harmful UV radiation. UV protection films can provide relief by blocking these rays.
7. Glass Thickness Misconceptions
Did You Know? Glass thickness has little impact on UV protection unless it's specifically coated or treated to block UV rays?
A common misconception is that thicker glass offers better UV protection. In reality:
● Thicker glass blocks UVB rays but doesn’t impact UVA radiation.
● UVA rays, responsible for skin aging and photosensitivity, penetrate glass regardless of thickness.
Even historical buildings with thick glass still suffer from UV-related damage, demonstrating the importance of UV protective film for comprehensive protection.
8. Cumulative Indoor UV Exposure
Did You Know? UV exposure through windows is cumulative. An 8-hour workday near large windows can result in UV exposure equivalent to several hours outdoors?
While indoor UV levels are lower than outdoor exposure, the duration adds up:
● 8-hour workday near windows = approximately 4 hours of outdoor exposure.
● Office workers can receive up to 50% of their annual UV dose indoors.
For buildings where people spend extended hours—offices, schools, hospitals—addressing indoor UV exposure is crucial. UV protection films reduce cumulative exposure without requiring occupants to take extra precautions.
Conclusion
Understanding the limitations of modern glass and the risks of UV exposure is essential for creating safer, more comfortable indoor environments. UV protection films offer a simple yet effective solution, blocking up to 99.9% of harmful rays without compromising on aesthetics or energy efficiency. By incorporating UV protection films, property owners and managers can protect occupants from the dangers of UV radiation, prevent fading, and create healthier, more comfortable spaces.
Contact Us today If you're concerned about UV exposure in your building, reach out to us to learn how UV protection film can make a significant difference. Let’s work together to ensure your environment is safe and comfortable for everyone!