Art isn’t just about beauty—it’s about preservation. Whether you’re an artist, a collector, or someone who just loves their art wall-ready, the frame you choose matters. And no, it’s not just about picking the wood tone that matches your couch. One of the most overlooked but critical decisions in framing? Choosing UV-protection glass in Fine Art Framing in Brooklyn NY.
Let’s explore why this one detail could be the difference between your masterpiece looking brand new for decades—or slowly fading into a ghost of its former self.
Table of Contents
- What is UV-Protection Glass?
- Why Does Artwork Fade Over Time?
- The Real Impact of UV Light on Art
- Who Needs UV-Protection Glass?
- Types of UV-Protection Glass
- How to Tell If Your Art Is Protected
- Conclusion: A Clear Solution
- Bonus Tip: Where to Frame Your Art in Brooklyn
What is UV-Protection Glass?
UV-protection glass is specially designed to block ultraviolet rays—those sneaky, invisible light waves that are great for tanning (sort of) but terrible for your artwork. Standard glass or acrylic might let 40–60% of UV light through. In contrast, UV-protection glass can block up to 99% of harmful rays, acting like sunscreen for your art.
Why Does Artwork Fade Over Time?
Here’s the harsh truth: all art materials degrade over time. But UV light speeds up that process like it’s late for a gallery opening. Whether it’s ink, paint, paper, or even textiles, prolonged exposure to UV rays causes fading, yellowing, and general deterioration. And it’s not just sunlight—yes, even indoor lighting like LEDs and fluorescents emit UV.
So no, moving your framed art away from a sunny window isn’t enough. Sorry.
The Real Impact of UV Light on Art
Let’s get nerdy for a second (but not too nerdy). As experts say, 90% of fading in artworks is due to UV exposure. Museums worldwide have made UV-filtering glass a standard practice to protect priceless works.
Translation: If it’s good enough for Monet, it’s probably good enough for your concert poster or original oil painting.
Who Needs UV-Protection Glass?
Basically… everyone. But especially:
- Artists selling their work (your collectors will thank you).
- Art collectors and curators—even casual ones.
- Home decorators hanging pieces with sentimental or monetary value.
- Art Galleries in Williamsburg Brooklyn NY, where creative energy (and sunlight) is abundant.
If your art means something to you—whether it’s a $10 print or a $10,000 original—UV-protection glass is worth the upgrade.
Types of UV-Protection Glass
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to UV glass. Here are a few options:
- Conservation Clear Glass: Blocks up to 99% UV, affordable, slightly reflective.
- Museum Glass: Also blocks 99% UV, but with anti-reflective coating (super fancy).
- Acrylic (Plexiglass) UV-Filtering Sheets: Lightweight and shatterproof. Great for larger pieces or kids’ rooms (because accidents happen).
Choosing the right one depends on your budget, the artwork’s value, and where it will hang.
How to Tell If Your Art Is Protected
Here’s the kicker: a lot of framing shops say they use protective glass, but not all UV-blocking glass is made equal. If you already have framed art at home, you can:
- Check the receipt or label: It might list the type of glass.
- Hold the glass up to UV light with a blacklight: If nothing fluoresces, it’s doing its job.
- Ask a professional framer to assess it—especially if the piece is aging poorly.
A little detective work now can save a lot of heartache (and money) later.
Conclusion: A Clear Solution
At the end of the day, investing in UV-protection glass is like putting a helmet on your artwork. Sure, it might seem like an extra step (or expense), but when your piece still looks vibrant 10, 20, or even 50 years down the road, you’ll be glad you did.
Because art deserves to be admired—not mourned for its faded glory.
Bonus Tip: Where to Frame Your Art in Brooklyn
If you’re in Brooklyn and want expert help, look no further than Williamsburg Art Framing. They specialize in Fine Art Framing and offer custom solutions with UV-protection options that make your art—and your walls—look phenomenal.
