Protecting Delicate Fabrics and Brilliant Colors

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 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's always present in natural daylight, regardless of exposure," said Pierre Blanc, CEO of Sunshield Energy Control Systems, LLC in New York.. Most people believe that bright, sunny days are the only time UV damage occurs, but that couldn't 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. Longer UV wavelengths pass right through most drapery fabrics and can lead to premature deterioration of not only the drapes themselves, but what's in front of them as well. Unless complete blackout draperies are utilized and 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 wouldn't greatly alter the aesthetics of the glass but 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 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," said Blanc. These state-of-the-art coatings 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 are left undisturbed.

This type of protection is an undiscernible preservation tool essential to the future preservation of any fine collection of artwork or interior furnishings.

Protective, ultra-violet window coatings have become the standard in protecting fine furnishings and art collections from sunlight damage. They're 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. "It is very cost-effective insurance that can preserve yesterday's treasures for future generations," said. Blanc.

Sunshield Energy Control Systems, LLC developed a proprietary method of application for protective window coatings 21 years ago and has helped protect residences as well as historical and landmark properties around the world. For additional information on the subject or to speak with an expert in the industry, call Sunshield at (914) 633-5853.

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