Understanding the many dangers of UV light is vital in keeping your family safe. UV rays can also cause significant damage to household products by causing your interior items to fade. Constant exposure to the sun’s rays can even cause floors to warp.
Finding ways to protect yourself from UV rays is a top priority for homeowners – no matter the location. Here are a few of the most useful tips for keeping both your family and household items safe from the damaging effects of the sun.
#1) Invest in a Window Coverings
One of the most straightforward ways to protect your home from UV rays is to invest in window coverings. These curtains are available in a wide range of styles to complement any room’s decor and are an inexpensive solution to protect your home’s interior.
Be sure only to purchase coverings with a blackout or drapery lining. Both are the most crucial components of a solution for successful sun blocking. The main drawback of purchasing window coverings is due to the lesser amount of light in the room. However, window coverings are an effective strategy for reducing UV damage.
#2) Install Impact Windows
One of the most effective ways to keep your home well-protected against UV rays is to install impact windows throughout your house. These windows can significantly reduce UV rays infiltration by as much as 99%. Impact windows also offer a multitude of ancillary benefits, including protection from severe weather, improved energy efficiency, and less outside noise.
#3) Tint Your Windows
Choosing to tint your windows is another way to protect yourself against UV rays. Tinted windows will limit sunlight exposure, but discoloration to your fabrics will still occur at a slower rate. You can also reduce your energy bill during the summer months with the help of tinted windows. However, installing impact windows is much more effective and a better long-term investment for homeowners.
#4) Purchase Impact Doors
UV light penetration isn’t just restricted to windows. Doors with glass windows provide an avenue, as well. Give your home the ultimate protection against UV rays by installing impact doors. These doors are also an excellent way to improve curb appeal and increase the value of your home. These doors are available in a wide range of styles and will give you the best protection against hurricane-force winds.
#5) Replace Window Screens
Any barriers a home can put in front of sunlight is beneficial. Don’t underestimate the impact of window screens as a part of that strategy. While it’s typical fare to look at screens only for keeping bugs out, modern materials now allow for these products to aid in UV blocking. Replacing window screens with a high-quality UV shielding mesh can help block 50-90% of UV rays from entering windows before they even get to the glass panes.
Plan Your UV Protection Plan Room by Room
As a rule of thumb, remember – the more light blocked, the darker the room. UV filtering doesn’t need to be uniform across an entire property, so take time to shop around and consider the items in each room you’re building a protection plan for. Rooms requiring lots of light to create a specific ambiance may benefit from lighter screens, while rooms with expensive items or more natural materials would benefit from a higher level of UV filtering. No matter the choice, go for the solution that works best for both your budget and long-term home protection plan.
Author Bio (article by Luis Alvarez): Luis Alvarez is the founder and owner of Alco Windows and Doors. Coming from a family with more than 15 years of experience in the glass and glazing industry, Luis used his background knowledge to found a company dedicated to providing quality service and support for those looking to protect their loved ones from severe weather. A retired veteran who served in the Marine Corps, Luis uses his military experience to effectively run Alco. His attention to timeliness guarantees efficient installations focused on meeting planned deadlines. His background in preparation and organization ensures flawless window and door projects, no matter the job size. His leadership experience promises a “job well done” mindset from every member of the Alco team – from salespeople to installation professionals. A graduate of Florida International University with a degree in Mathematics, Luis takes time to give back to the community by serving as an adjunct professor at Miami Dade College. He believes homes are built around people supporting one another, and his dedication to his home in South Florida ensures Alco Windows and Doors will always put the customer’s safety and satisfaction first.
