Dan's Papers - June 22, 2007 - The Art of Conservation

Conservation, preservation and protection can take many forms but one methodology, essential to any fine collection, is the application of ultraviolet-inhibiting window coatings.

The most severe damage to fine art collections, antiquities and furnishings alike is caused by ultraviolet radiation, specifically UVA radiation that passes through ordinary window glass. The same invisible carcinogen responsible for skin cancer is also responsible for 40% of all fading. "Ultraviolet induced damage can be quite severe because it is always present in natural daylight, regardless of exposure," says Pierre Blanc, CEO of Sunshield Energy Control Systems, LLC in New York., one of the industry's most renowned specialty firms. Most people believe that bright, sunny days are the only time U.V. damage occurs, but that could not be further from the truth. If daylight is present, then dangerous ultra-violet radiation is present as well. Even dreary, rainy, cloudy or snowy days contain enough UV to cause damage over time.

Additionally, most common window treatments do not provide significant protection against this type of radiation. The longer UVA wavelengths pass right through most drapery fabrics and can lead to premature deterioration of not only the drapes themselves, but what is behind them as well. Unless complete blackout draperies are utilized and are kept closed during all daylight hours, traditional window treatments are relatively useless within the realm of fade protection. Most homeowners like to enjoy the beauty of their view and living in the darkness of tightly shut curtains and draperies is simply not a realistic solution.

Protective coatings for windows came into general use about 40 years ago as collectors and curators noted with alarm that the sun's rays could damage and even destroy all types of organic material, bleaching the finish on furniture and destroying fabrics, carpeting, paintings, photographs and prints as well. Scientists searched for a method of protection that would not greatly alter the aesthetics of the glass but one which would help to minimize damage. Now, with advancements in technology, an educated consumer can obtain a professional installation of a sunshield product eliminating nearly 100% of all the damaging ultraviolet rays, which are the leading cause of fading.

In addition to UV radiation, heat (infra-red radiation) and glare (visible light) equally play a role in the fade equation. Visible light and heat are responsible for 25% of overall fading and each can be significantly minimized with the application of a window coating. "By selectively inhibiting the infiltration of ultraviolet, infra-red and visible light, our coatings provide the greatest degree of solar protection and energy management that current technology permits", says Blanc of his product offerings. These state-of-the-art coatings that Blanc speaks of offer superior heat, glare and fade protection while maintaining the beauty and clarity of the original view. In other words, invisible protection can be achieved while providing for optical clarity and accuracy both inside and outside of the home. Panoramas through the glass are preserved and the views left undisturbed.

The key to maintaining the clarity of the original view, besides the advanced product used, is in the type of application technique employed. According to Sunshield, who developed a proprietary method of application 21 years ago, their procedure is "quite unique and unparalleled within the industry, it requires the highest level of craftsmanship, expertise and skill. Thus it is unable to be duplicated". In fact, Sunshield Energy Control Systems has protected some of the finest residences as well as historical and landmark properties all over the world. Our impeccable reputation for excellence has allowed the company to provide service to clients in nearly every part of the globe, explains Mr. Blanc.

Not all of these window coatings, however, or the companies that offer their installation are created equal. It is imperative to select the best of both that the industry has to offer. Once accomplished correctly, this type of protection is an indiscernible preservation tool essential to the future preservation of any fine collection of artwork and interior furnishings. While nothing exists that can completely eliminate fading, heat loss or heat infiltration, sunshield coatings offer the greatest amount of protection currently available within the marketplace.

Protective, ultra-violet window coatings have become the standard in protecting fine furnishings and art collections from sunlight damage. They are also extremely effective at deflecting the sun's summertime heat as well as containing precious heat during the winter months. The process of diffusion of interior heat through the glass is greatly slowed by the sunshield coating thus, rooms stay noticeably warmer during the colder weather. With both electric costs and oil at historic highs, energy efficient window coatings can offer tremendous savings on utility costs.

For additional information on the subject or to speak with an expert in the industry, call Sunshield Energy Control Systems, LLC at (914) 633-5853 or visit www.sunshieldusa.com.