The solar spectrum explained.

Let’s talk about how top-performing sun protection works and why it makes a difference to your building. To understand this, it helps to know what solar energy is. Sunlight that reaches the Earth consists of three types of energy:

* Ultraviolet (UV) rays are invisible to the eye. These rays fade materials and can pose a serious risk to skin health. They're only about 2% of the solar energy.

* Visible light is the only solar energy we can see, and solar panels convert it into electricity. This is about half of the solar energy. This is why we install skylights and windows in our buildings.

* Infrared (IR) rays are invisible heat energy, the main contributor to rising indoor temperatures. Over 50% of the total solar energy is.

The best sun protection is spectrally selective, meaning it treats these three energy types differently to deliver optimal comfort and protection.

Effective sun protection should:

• Block UV rays completely to protect interiors from fading and occupants from harmful exposure.

• Control visible light to allow bright, natural light where it’s wanted; reduce glare where it’s not; or create a soft, pleasant glow that keeps spaces naturally lit while maintaining a sense of the outdoors.

• Reflect the infrared heat rather than absorbing it, keeping buildings cooler and preventing panels from overheating or cracking.

Our solar control coating solutions for any type of skylight are:

The 4EVERblue coating blocks as much UV and IR radiation as possible while allowing pleasant light to enter. This provides the optimal amount of sunlight for the next eight years and longer.

The 4EVERdark coating, which blocks UV and IR radiation while minimising light transmission, provides the ultimate protection for skylights and rooflights.

Want to find out more about skylight sun protection? Send us your questions, and we’ll respond promptly with tailored advice for your building.