At Perfect Fit Window Fashions in Ft. Myers, many of our customers have concerns about harmful Ultraviolet (UV) rays. Normally, people think that means being sure to protect our skin with sunscreen—they don’t necessarily think about protecting our home furnishings with window coverings. However, according to the National Fenestration Rating Council®, damaging UV rays and radiation enter homes through windows, fading the home’s furnishings. If your home has windows that are not covered properly, your belongings will likely experience UV damage.
Some people believe that UV damage occurs only during the summer months. However, during the winter when the sun is lower on the horizon, the harsh glare and the lack of leaves allows the sun to enter farther into the room. Without your even knowing it, this can cause additional damage. So it is important to protect against UV rays, regardless of the season.
How Can I Know if I Have UV Damage in My Home?
There are three distinct parts that make up the sun’s energy, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, visible, and infrared radiation (IR). Of the three, UV radiation is responsible for the greatest amount of fading, approximately 40 to 60 percent. UV damage is permanent and is not limited to fading fabrics, walls, artwork, carpets, and hardwood floors. It can cause fading anywhere the sunlight reaches. Pull back the corner of your throw rug, move the painting on the wall, or turn your couch cushion over to see if fading has occurred. If so, it’s time to take charge.
Stylish Hunter Douglas Window Treatment Solutions
The leader of custom window treatments, Hunter Douglas believes that protecting your precious valuables from UV rays is highly important. Nearly all Hunter Douglas window treatments filter out at least 75 percent of the sun’s damaging UV rays if they are installed over double-glazed glass windows. When the window treatment is fully lowered and with the vanes, slats, or louvers in the closed position, protection can be as high as 99 percent. The rating of protection depends on the fabrics and product features selected and whether the window treatment is raised, lowered, opened, or closed.
You don’t have to totally block your view outside to control UV rays. For example, Vignette® Modern Roman Shades are energy-efficient by trapping air and adding an extra layer of insulation at the window to keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Vignette also protects your furnishings from fading with at least 75 percent protection from damaging UV rays. On the other hand, Silhouette® Shadings sheer fabrics gently filter out UV rays, glare, and brightness – protecting your furnishings and spreading the severe exterior light evenly throughout the room.
Your Home Is Your Biggest Investment
Keep your furnishings looking beautiful for years to come by protecting them from harmful UV rays. To learn more about Hunter Douglas window treatments, contact the professional consultants at Perfect Fit Window Fashions!
Custom Shades & Blinds with UV Protection for Drapery and Furniture in Fort Myers Area
Visit our showroom in Estero, FL, serving the areas of Estero, Bonita Springs, Naples and Ft. Myers. Contact us today for a design consultation – we’re looking forward to serving you!
