UV filter

I have read somewhere on LT (but I can not trace it where - maybe it was in this group) about UV filters to be used for the glass sections off a book closet. That would prevent books from discoloring. If that is correct, does anybody know where I can buy these (preferably online)?

Ultraviolet light, or most any light really, is not good for books. I've seen considerable fading on items that were only exposed to fluorescent lights. At home, I had my library windows tinted with UV-blocking film, and keep blinds and curtains closed as much as possible. For a glass-front bookcase at my office, I bought a roll of UV blocking window film at a local building supply store (Lowes or Home Depot--they both have websites, so the film should be available online). It was simple to install, and I hope it helps slow the fading.

If anyone else has tips to combat light damage, I'd also be glad to learn about those.

This is a great suggestion. My best beloved just constructed some beautiful built in shelving that unfortunately catches the full blaze of the afternoon sun. I haven't had the heart to tell him.

>3 varielle:
Just tell him his next project is to add glass-front doors with UV-filter/film on the glass. I'm sure he needs a new project now that he's finished the shelving. :-)

Os.

Glass and Lexan (OP-3) plastic blocks shortwave UV light. This is used by fluorescent mineral collectors to protect viewers' eyes from the UV-C. In this case the shortwave UV activates certain fluorescent minerals and the filter allows only the visible portion through the viewing window.

However, it is possible that the fading damage could be from longwave UV (UV-A) and in that case other filters may be needed.

Fluorescent tubes (and other light sources) inside of a case can be a significant source of fading. I have seen some sources offer filter plastic tubes which can be wrapped around the fluorescent tubes.

James Keeline

I would love to know where you could buy adhesive UVA, UVB etc. film here in Europe to place on my windows in my apartment.

I don't know in Europe, but in the states we have huge home improvement and warehouse stores that sell it by the sheet so it can be cut to fit. You need a friend to help you though, as it's tough to do by yourself without getting it all stuck together.

God bless America!

>6 ironjaw:
I'm about to try out something from this company:

http://www.luxasolar.eu/index.htm

based in Belgium, Netherlands and France.

They sell a kind of plastic foil that would block most of the UV. It is intended for shop windows and the like, but since there are also sources of UV inside the house (such as fluorescent tubes) I am thinking about applying it directly to the glass panes of my bookcase instead.

>2 TrippB: Sorry to revive an old thread, but I am curious as to how your books are faring with the protection of the window film. Did it work to prevent fading?

This is great. I have been thinking about this for some time

>10 ReadTree:
I can't provide great insight to the effectiveness, as I've moved the library a couple of times since then. I also had UV-blocking film applied to the windows of a later home, and it seemed to provide protection from fading (and lowered my air conditioning costs, too). Anecdotal reports from friends support the conclusion that window film cuts down fading on furniture and artwork, so I won't hesitate to use it again. Better windows have the protection built in.

Be careful of putting privacy film on big windows, though. I had mirror-like film put on one large window. It was great for daytime privacy, but a few birds flew right into it and that was the end for a couple them. That never happened before the film, so I won't use privacy film again.

>12 TrippB: Thanks for the update, and feedback! My idea is to apply clear window solar film (not the reflective type) directly to the glass doors of bookcases being installed in a living space with windows. The books would not be in the path of direct sunlight, but would be exposed to the natural light in the room.

--- Puts on museum curator hat ---
Yes! UV film should help your books, but can also help lower your energy consumption in the summertime!

I recently moved into a new house which has UV film pre-installed with the windows.... needless to say I'm pretty thrilled to no longer have to worry about UV damage to my library.

>15 mortalalliance: All of the windows in my house are double pane with inert gas between them and have UV coatings. That said, direct sunlight can still fade your spines and damage your books. Please keep all of your fine books out of direct sunlight.

Does anyone have experience with this company's clear UV blocking film?
https://www.gordonglassusa.com/search.aspx?search=uv&type=3