The relentless Houston sun can be a real challenge for businesses. Not only does it bring the heat, but it also bathes your space in harmful UV radiation that can fade furnishings and damage merchandise. That’s why choosing the best commercial glass for your Houston storefront or office building is crucial.
Northwest Glass & Mirror, Houston’s leading provider of commercial glass solutions, offers a wide range of UV-protective options to safeguard your interiors and enhance your building’s performance.
Whether you’re looking to create a dazzling storefront or a comfortable and energy-efficient workspace, we have the expertise to help you find the perfect glass for your needs. Contact us today for a free commercial glass quote.
UV Damage Can Cost Your Business
On the Gulf Coast, we can experience high levels of UV radiation. These rays penetrate glass and cause fading and discoloration of fabrics, artwork, and flooring. This damage may seem gradual at first, but over time, it leads to a dull, worn-out appearance that can negatively impact your image and the overall atmosphere of your space.
Think about the cost implications. That expensive leather furniture in your reception area? Prolonged sun exposure can cause it to crack and fade prematurely, forcing you to replace it sooner than expected. The vibrant colors of your custom carpeting? UV rays can bleach them out, leaving your floors looking drab and uninviting. And don’t forget about merchandise displayed near windows, which are particularly vulnerable to fading and discoloration.
These replacements translate to unexpected expenses as you may need to replace these big-ticket items sooner than anticipated. Choosing the right Houston commercial glass can significantly slow down this degradation process, protecting your investment in furnishings and flooring, and ultimately saving you money in the long run.
How to Combat UV Damage in Your Commercial Building
Fortunately, advancements in glass technology offer a variety of options to combat the damaging effects of UV radiation. Here are some of the different types of glass to consider for your Houston business.
Low-E Coatings: Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are microscopically thin, virtually invisible layers applied to glass surfaces. These coatings are designed to reflect solar heat and harmful UV rays while allowing visible light to pass through. This helps keep your interiors cooler and protects your furnishings from fading without compromising natural light.
Tinted Glass: Tinted glass offers a stylish and effective way to reduce UV penetration. The tint absorbs a portion of the UV radiation, minimizing its impact on your interiors. Tinted glass also helps reduce glare and solar heat gain, improving occupant comfort and reducing energy costs.
Laminated Glass: This type of glass consists of two or more layers of glass bonded together with a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer. Some laminated glass products incorporate UV-resistant interlayers that significantly block UV radiation. This option not only provides excellent UV protection but also enhances safety and security.
Insulated Glass Units (IGUs): IGUs consist of two or more glass panes separated by a sealed air space. When combined with Low-E coatings or tinted glass, IGUs provide exceptional energy efficiency and UV protection. They can significantly reduce cooling costs while creating a more comfortable and protected indoor environment.
What Type of Houston Commercial Glass Should I Choose?
Selecting the right UV-protective glass depends on factors like your budget, desired aesthetic, and the level of UV protection required.
For storefronts, high visibility is key. You want to showcase your merchandise while preventing fading caused by sun exposure. Consider Low-E coatings or laminated glass with UV-resistant interlayers. These options offer excellent protection without compromising the clarity and transparency needed to attract customers.
In large-scale office buildings, energy efficiency is a major concern. Look for high-performance IGUs with Low-E coatings and tinted glass to maximize natural light while minimizing solar heat gain and UV penetration. This will help create a comfortable and productive work environment while reducing energy consumption.
Houston’s Top Source for UV-Resistant Commercial Glass
Protecting your business from the harsh Texas sun is a smart investment. By choosing the right type of commercial glass, you can safeguard your valuable assets, create a more comfortable environment for your employees and customers, and even save money on energy costs.
At Northwest Glass & Mirror, our team of experts can help you assess your needs and recommend the ideal glass solutions to keep your Houston business looking its best. Get in touch with us today!
