John,

You can get plexi that blocks some of the UV and also the clear filtering films as well. They block a significant amount of UV. Make sure to check on how much UV-A and UV-B they block, both contain energy that can degrade collections and furnishings. You will not be blocking the energy from visible light with clear media - most of that will come in - and tints just don't look good in a period house. There are always the period solutions - using blinds or curtains, especially during times of the day when the sun is shining directly into the room.

I'd suggest talking to Robert Self, conservator at Monticello. They've employed a nice UV filtering system that is fit around rather than on the historic window glass.

The UV films do not last forever. It is important to get a baseline UV reading in each room first, then with the film in place to check its efficiency, then at least once or twice a year after that, so you can see when you'll need to replace the films.

Cheers!
Dave

David Harvey
Senior Conservator and Museum Consultant
Los Angeles CA



On Thu, Feb 24, 2011 at 8:33 AM, John Marks <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
Hi,

I've checked the listserv archives, local glass vendors, and plastics websites and haven't found an answer to this question. I want to block both UV and visible light in our 1839 Greek Revival mansion (and have decided to use plexi sheets inside the window frames rather than film) - does anyone make plexiglas that combines both filters? Or do I need to buy one type of sheeting (UF-3, or tinted for visible filtering) and apply another type of film to it, to get the whole protection? If that's the case, which is better - applying UV film to a tinted plexi, or applying tinted film to UV plexi? These filters are for transom and sidelight windows in two large hallways,where it's impractical to hang curtains or otherwise cut down the visible light.

Thanks!
John Marks
Curator
Geneva (NY) Historical Society

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