Is The Window Place USA an authorized vendor for government window film procurement?

Yes. The Window Place USA is a SAM.gov-registered vendor (CAGE Code: 52MH9, DUNS: 807327700) and an authorized distributor of Saint-Gobain SolarGard architectural window films. We accept GSA SmartPay and P-Cards for federal and municipal procurement of ASTM F1642-compliant Armorcoat blast mitigation films and solar control films.

Which window film is recommended for school safety and delayed intrusion?

For school safety applications, we recommend SolarGard Armorcoat Safety and Security Window Film in 8-Mil or 14-Mil thicknesses. These films are tested to delay forced entry, buying critical time for law enforcement response, and hold shattered glass together to minimize injury during impact events. Both the 8-Mil and 14-Mil products are certified to ASTM F1642 blast mitigation standards.

Does SolarGard Ecolux 70 Low-E qualify for the Federal Energy Tax Credit?

SolarGard Ecolux 70 Low-E window film may qualify for the 30% Federal Energy Efficiency Tax Credit (Section 25C, IRS Form 5695) under the Inflation Reduction Act for qualifying residential installations through December 31, 2032, subject to an annual cap of $1,200. Consult your tax advisor to confirm eligibility for your specific installation.

Does The Window Place USA ship window film to all 50 states?

Yes. The Window Place USA ships factory-sealed SolarGard master rolls via FedEx Ground and Freight to all 50 states. Orders placed before 2:00 PM EST are eligible for same-day dispatch. We do not offer overnight or expedited shipping options.

Understanding the Difference Between UVA and UVB Rays Indoors: A Key to Skin Cancer Prevention

Posted by The Window Place USA on May 2nd 2026

Understanding the Difference Between UVA and UVB Rays Indoors: A Key to Skin Cancer Prevention

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with over 5 million cases diagnosed annually. Preventing skin cancer involves minimizing exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is a major risk factor for all types of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. While most people associate UV exposure with outdoor sunlight, it is important to understand that UV rays can penetrate indoors through windows, posing a hidden risk. This article explains the differences between UVA and UVB rays indoors and how understanding these differences can help you better protect your skin and reduce the risk of skin cancer.

The Nature of UVA and UVB Rays

Ultraviolet radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. It is divided into three types based on wavelength: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC rays are largely absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere and do not reach the surface. Therefore, UVA and UVB are the primary concerns for skin health.

UVA rays have a longer wavelength (320-400 nm) and make up approximately 95% of the UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface. They penetrate deeper into the skin layers, affecting the dermis and contributing to premature skin aging and indirect DNA damage, which can promote skin cancer development.
UVB rays have a shorter wavelength (280-320 nm) and are more energetic but make up only about 5% of the UV radiation reaching the surface. UVB primarily affects the outer skin layers (epidermis) and is the main cause of sunburn and direct DNA damage leading to mutations that can cause skin cancer.

How UVA and UVB Rays Behave Indoors

When it comes to indoor environments, understanding how UVA and UVB rays penetrate windows is crucial.

UVA Rays Indoors

UVA rays have the ability to penetrate glass. Standard window glass blocks most UVB rays but allows nearly all UVA rays to pass through. This means that even indoors, especially near windows or in sunrooms, your skin is exposed to UVA radiation. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), typical glass blocks about 97% of UVB but only about 37% of UVA rays[1]. This partial UVA transmission means that prolonged exposure to sunlight through windows can contribute to skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer over time.

UVB Rays Indoors

UVB rays are mostly absorbed by window glass and do not penetrate indoors to any significant degree. The protective glass used in residential and commercial windows is designed to block nearly all UVB radiation. This means the risk of sunburn and direct UVB-induced DNA damage indoors is minimal under typical conditions.

Implications for Skin Cancer Prevention

Since UVA rays penetrate indoors through windows, it is a misconception that you are completely safe from UV exposure inside buildings or vehicles. Prolonged UVA exposure indoors can lead to cumulative skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation emphasizes that UVA rays contribute to the development of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers by causing oxidative stress and DNA mutations[2].

Protective Measures Indoors

Window Films: Installing high-quality window films that block UVA rays is one of the most effective ways to reduce indoor UV exposure. SolarGard window films, for example, can block up to 99% of UVA and UVB rays while maintaining natural light and visibility.
Sunscreen: Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin indoors near windows can offer additional protection against UVA rays.
UV-Protective Window Glass: Consider upgrading to glass with built-in UV protection, which can significantly reduce UVA transmission.
Limit Sun Exposure Near Windows: Position workspaces or seating areas away from direct sunlight through windows during peak sun hours.

Summary

While UVB rays are effectively blocked by typical window glass, UVA rays penetrate indoors and contribute to skin aging and skin cancer risk. Recognizing the difference between UVA and UVB rays indoors is essential for comprehensive skin cancer prevention. Utilizing UV-blocking window films, applying sunscreen indoors near windows, and limiting direct sun exposure can help mitigate these risks.

For those looking for effective UV protection solutions, The Window Place USA offers supply-only rolls of premium SolarGard window films that block harmful UVA and UVB rays, helping you protect your skin and enhance indoor comfort.

References

[1] U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Sun Safety: UV Radiation. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/sunsafety/uv-radiation

[2] The Skin Cancer Foundation. (n.d.). UVA Rays: What You Should Know. Retrieved from https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/uva-rays/

[3] National Cancer Institute. (2022). Skin Cancer Prevention (PDQ®)–Patient Version. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/patient/skin-prevention-pdq

For premium window film solutions that effectively block harmful UVA and UVB rays, contact The Window Place USA today. Whether you need supply-only rolls or professional guidance, reach out at inquiries@thewindowplaceusa.com or call (866) 274-2769 to protect your indoor environment and your skin.