The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can seriously damage anything exposed to sunlight. From objects to surfaces and even human skin, anything exposed to this harmful radiation degrades over time (some faster than others). This is why UV protection is important, especially in offices where so many employees work for hours regularly.
Today, with global radiation levels rising, UV protection film for office windows has become a necessity that you can no longer overlook. High-quality UV window film protects office furniture, surfaces, and employees from harmful radiation as well as reduces glare. The protection that this particular type of window film offers has become the main reason so many offices in the UK are choosing professional UV window film installation over blinds, curtains or tinted glass alone.
Ordinary window glass does provide minimal or basic protection from harmful UVB radiation. However, it is not sufficient to deal with UVA radiation. When harmful UVA radiation enters through glass, it causes serious damage such as:
- Fading of wall colours
- Damage to flooring
- Harmful effects on human skin
- General glare and discomfort
In this blog, we’ll first look at what UV radiation is, then move on to understanding how it enters indoors and explore various types of UV-blocking films. Once we are through with the basics, we’ll look into the benefits it offers, especially for office occupants. Let’s get started!
What Is UV Radiation, and How Does It Enter Indoors
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of energy the sunlight produces. There are two kinds of UV rays that enter the office interior (or any interior) through the window glass: UVA and UVB. These UV rays can be harmful to both people and office interiors.
UVA radiation is responsible for causing permanent skin damage and premature ageing. On the other hand, UVB radiation can cause sunburn and can damage the outer layers of skin. Both types of UV radiation are responsible for causing damage to the interior of the entire office, such as fading and deterioration of furniture, flooring, and other interior materials over time.
Standard window glass offers basic protection against UVB rays, but that does not mean that it stops the radiation completely. As for UVA rays, standard glass is not well equipped to deal with them. This means the entire office interior is exposed to both kinds of UV rays. You can see the effects of the radiation gradually on the flooring, furniture, office equipment, and even the employees.
How UV Blocking Window Films Work: Explained
Before we get into how UV protection film for office windows works, let’s briefly understand what these films actually are. UV protection films for office windows are actually thin and transparent layers that are put on office windows (or, in general, any window pane) to enable them to filter out both the UVA and UVB radiations.
The best part of using these UV protection window films is that they don’t stop the natural sunlight from coming indoors. This means that the office space does not get dim. This type of window film simply filters the UV rays without making the office interior darker. By doing so, these films protect furniture, flooring, and skin from the damaging effects of sunlight.
Now let’s look at how these films actually pull off the trick…
Unlike tinted films, UV protection films are transparent. However, they contain special coatings or embedded particles that absorb or reflect UV radiation before it can pass through the glass. In other words, this means that the harmful UVA and UVB radiation are filtered out even before they can get in and do any damage to the office interiors.
Different Types of Sun Protection Film Especially for Office Windows
For office spaces, the most important factor is natural lighting. You won’t want to reduce the amount of natural light entering the office during the day. The various kinds of sun protection window films provide benefits such as managing glare, reducing heat, and improving indoor comfort. Here are the different options available:
1. Spectrally Selective Films
These window films allow natural light to enter the indoor office space as well as filter out the harmful UV rays. They offer added benefits such as glare reduction and reduced eye strain without darkening the workspace.
2. IR Rejection Film
IR rejection films are most effective for those who sit near the window because this film helps maintain clear visibility. These films also actively improve thermal comfort and reduce visual fatigue.
3. Dual Reflective Film
This is the best choice for offices with sun-facing windows. Dual reflective films have special features. They have a reflective exterior. This means they can reduce intense sunlight and glare.
4. High Performance Film
High-performance films combine various features such as advanced heat rejection, glare control, and UV protection. High-performance films also help maintain brightness in the interior of the office during daytime.
Different Types of UV-Blocking Window Films For General Use
There are four primary categories or types of UV protection window films available. They are:
1. Residential Films
These anti-UV window films are used particularly for homes. They protect the furniture, flooring, and skin from damage. These films are best suited for large living rooms, bedrooms, and conservatories.
2. Commercial Films
As the name suggests, these films are best for retail stores, museums, and other business spaces. These films not only reduce UV exposure but also help maintain the brightness inside the office.
3. Tinted or Reflective Films
Tinted UV-blocking films are slightly darkened on purpose. Owing to their darker appearance, these window films can offer added benefits such as glare reduction, reducing heat, and even increasing the level of privacy. The only downside is that the office interior might appear a bit darker. Tinted or reflective films are best suited for office partitions where privacy is important.
4. Clear UV Blocking Films
These are the ordinary UV protection window films. They are thin and transparent. These films are best if you want maximum light without compromising the room’s natural brightness. Clear UV blocking films can effectively filter out the harmful UV rays without making the room darker.
Benefits of Using UV Protection Film for Office Windows
Apart from the benefits mentioned already, such as glare reduction, improving privacy, and protecting the furniture and office appliances, there are several other benefits of UV protection films. They offer:
- Improved screen visibility
- Clearer displays during presentations and video calls
- Balanced lighting while also reducing reflections
- Reduced reflections and protection against harsh sun rays
- More consistent lighting levels across the workspace
- A great alternative to relying on blinds and curtains all the time
- Reduced chances of headaches, eye fatigue, and visual discomfort
Some films also help reduce solar heat gain and improve indoor comfort, particularly during the summer.
Get a Quote for UV Protection Film for Office Windows in the UK
Solar X specialises in installing UV protection film for office windows nationwide across the UK, helping protect office interiors and promote a more comfortable workspace. We begin each installation with an understanding of your existing glazing and your requirements, whether you need UV filtering, glare reduction, or added privacy. We then suggest the best option for your needs and budget.
Get in touch with us today for a free quote or arrange professional window film installation for your office.
The Final Word
UV protection film for office windows helps filter UVA and UVB rays without making the room appear dim. It protects furniture and flooring from fading and reduces glare on screens and offers many more useful benefits. The right film depends on your windows, how much daylight you want to keep, and whether you also need privacy or heat reduction. These films are applied to your existing glazing, so the windows themselves do not have to be replaced.
FAQs
1. What does UV protection film for office windows do?
A: It filters UVA and UVB rays coming through the glass while letting natural light into the room. This helps protect furniture, flooring and the people who work near windows from the damaging effects of the sunlight.
2. Does standard office glass block UV rays?
A: Standard glass gives basic protection against UVB rays but is not well equipped to deal with UVA rays.
3. Will UV protection window film make my office darker?
A: Not necessarily. Clear UV films are transparent and filter UV rays without darkening the room. Tinted or reflective films are darker, which adds glare reduction and privacy.
4. Can UV protection film also reduce glare?
A: Yes, some films reduce glare and heat as well as filter out UV rays. The effect depends on the film selected.
5. Can window film be installed on existing office windows?
A: Yes, where the glazing is suitable. The film is applied to the existing glass, and Solar X can advise on the right film for your windows.
