Winter UV Protection with Window Tinting: Year-Round Fade Defense


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Winter UV Protection with Window Tinting

Even during Nebraska winters, UV rays are present and can cause fading, while winter sun brings glare and temperature swings too, but commercial and residential window tinting can combat all of these.

Are UV Rays Still a Concern in the Winter?

Yes. Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays - the ones that cause sunburns - are stronger in the summer but don't disappear completely in the winter, while Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays - the ones that cause tanning, aging, and wrinkles - stay consistent year-round (The Skin Cancer Foundation).

Why Does Snow Increase UV Exposure?

Snow and ice can reflect up to 80% of the sun's UV rays – that's more than the UV reflected off of beach sand in the summer (Thunder Bay District Health Unit).

Though it's tempting to let your guard down in the colder months when you don't feel the heat from the sun, it's important to protect your spaces (and the people in those spaces) from those hidden rays.

Two photos of the same living room windows with a clear view of a Tint Revolution van parked outside
Do Windows Already Block UV Rays?

While most standard windows do a fair job at filtering out UVB rays, the longer wavelengths of the UVA rays are still able to pass through (The Skin Cancer Foundation).

However, window tint installed on standard windows can help block that inevitable winter UV - without the cost of full window replacement or dimming the natural light with drapes.

How Does Window Tint Protect Against Winter UV Rays?

3M Sun Control window films decrease UV rays entering through the window by reflecting and absorbing up to 99.9% of UV rays (3M). 3M Sun Control window films can also offer up to 97% solar heat rejection.

How Does Winter UV Damage Floors, Furniture, and Artwork?

Residential

We often install window films for clients who have noticed fading in rooms throughout their house. UV rays entering through windows cause floors, furniture, and belongings in your home to fade over time.

You may not notice until you go to move that living room rug, but it's quietly happening in the background. 3M window films are a great cost-effective solution to protect your sentimental items and investments from UV damage year-round.

How Can You Protect Retail Displays, Offices, and Showrooms from Winter Sun?

Commercial

It's understandable that most businesses put their best-selling products and most important marketing in their windows front and center – but unprotected windows allow the UV rays to quickly turn those displays from vibrant to dull.

UV rays entering through standard untreated windows can break down chemical bonds in displays, office furniture, and showroom items causing the colors to fade over time (The Library of Congress).

Replacing every window in your space is not only costly, but requires extended downtime for the space, and may not even be an option for a leased space. But window films can still give you protection without breaking the bank or slowing down your daily operations.

Will UV-Blocking Tint Make My Windows Too Dark?

No – there are many transparent window films that effectively block UV rays without darkening the room. You don't have to sacrifice natural lighting to reap the benefits of UV-blocking window films.

Commercial storefront entrance with glass doors and windows on a bright, clear winter day
Can Window Film Be Installed in the Winter?

Yes, with some caveats. It's not recommended to install window film when the temperature outside is below 40°F - doing so can lead to poor adhesion and failure (3M), which is why many Nebraska installs are scheduled for milder days.

The windows will need to be clear of any condensation, snow, and ice prior to installing window film (that means no installations during those midwestern blizzards).

Tint Revolution installer applying window film to a large residential window on a clear winter day
Protect Your Spaces from Winter UV Rays Today!

Whether it's your home or your business, window film can provide year-round protection against UV rays.

At Tint Revolution, we serve homes and businesses across Nebraska and start every project with a conversation – learn about your space and how you use it. From there, we can show you samples and walk you through the best options for your needs and budget.

Request a quote through our website – let's start that conversation today and prevent UV damage to your space tomorrow.

FAQs
  • Does window tint block UV on cloudy days?
    Yes, 3M window films can block up to 99.9% of UV rays, including the ones that pass through cloud cover.
  • Does window tint help with solar glare?
    Yes, many lines of 3M window films redirect and reflect intense visible light rays, reducing solar glare.
  • How long does window film installation take?
    Installation time can vary depending on the size of windows, type of window film, and the environment. While many projects can be completed within a day, larger projects may take longer - our team will go over installation time for your specific project during the quoting process.
  • Will window film lose UV protection over time?
    While it's possible for the film to degrade slightly over time, 3M Sun Control window films can still offer up to 95% UV blocking throughout their lifespan (3M).
  • How long does window film last?
    3M Sun Control window films can last 10-20 years (3M).

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