How to Block UV Rays From Windows

Ultraviolet rays, also known as UV rays, naturally occur in sunlight. Although a small amount of exposure to UV rays is important for good health, prolonged exposure to rays can cause sunburns and other adverse effects to the skin, eyes and immune systems. In addition, UV rays can also cause certain surfaces to deteriorate more quickly resulting in discoloring, fading and cracking and sometimes causing detrimental damage to very fragile or valuable items such as antiques or paintings. Windows provide a certain amount of protection from UV rays, although sometimes it is desirable to further block them.

Things You'll Need

• Window coverings
• Window film

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Instructions

• 1

  Install window coverings such as shades, blinds or curtains. You can find sun-blocking window coverings that are designed especially to filter harmful UV rays. These are typically more expensive than traditional coverings, but they also offer greater protection. However, any window covering will block more UV rays than having none at all.

• 2

  Cover windows with a protective film. These extremely thin films are available in nearly invisible, tinted or metallic styles. You can usually purchase them at most home improvement stores and you can either install them yourself or leave the job to a professional.

• 3

  Consider installing newer UV protecting windows. There are three types of windows: clear glass, which offers little protection; tinted or reflective glass, which blocks about 50 to 75 percent of UV rays; and specially made UV-blocking glass, which offers up to 99 percent protection.