The Science Behind High Altitude Sun Glare: It’s Not Just In Your Head

If you have lived in the Great Salt Lake City area for just a few days or all your life, you are likely aware that this city is all about breathtaking views and outdoor adventures!  However, what many people who move here or have lived here their entire life are all too aware of is–there are a whole range of problems unique to living at such a high altitude.  One of the most frequent complaints regarding living at over a mile high that we get at  Salt Lake Window Tinting is homeowners frustrated with the incredibly bright Utah Sun.   That’s right, the excessive glare here is not just a figment of your imagination.   The fact is,  UV/UVB radiation is higher here because, at higher altitudes, a thinner atmosphere filters less UV radiation.  As a rule of thumb, for roughly every 3,200 ft increase in altitude, UV levels increase by 10% to 12%.  You can do the math then and see just how much stronger the sun is here.   Although you probably know from experience as well; westward facing rooms are for all intents and purposes unusable for at least 3 hours a day.  This is because, when the already intense sun hits the glass of your windows, it causes refraction and light displacement.    All of these factors equate to decreased comfort, unviewable screens, loss of view out the window.  Since you live in arguably one of the most beautiful places in the US, glare on your windows is definitely something to curtail.  Don’t let glare ruin the view–install window film on your Salt Lake City home and revel in a home life free from curtains, blinds, and most importantly,  glare!

 

Window Tinting Greatly Reduces Sun Glare In Your Salt Lake City Home

 

Controlling glare is basically about reducing your window’s Visible Light Transmission (VLT). Look at window film as sunglasses for your windows.  Much like the shades you wear over your eyes, the darker the film (lens) the more sunlight that is blocked and the less glare you will see.  We know you may be concerned about overly dark windows impeding your views or making your home windows look dark and unsightly but don’t worry–Salt Lake Window Tinting offers a variety of glare reducing films in many different of tint levels. Actually,  many of our films are barely even noticeable from the inside and out.  In fact, our most popular films offer a softer tint that will still reduce light transmission by 50%.  You get privacy, beauty and glare control all from one film!  

Contact us at Salt Lake Window Tinting to schedule a free, on-site consultation and start enjoying mountain living to the fullest!

Mike Kinsey is the head of operations for Salt Lake Window Tinting, one of the largest and most highly regarded window film companies in Utah. For the past decade, Mike has been using his extensive product knowledge, construction experience, and project management abilities to recommend window film solutions that help property owners achieve their architectural goals. From helping customers fight climbing energy costs to implementing effective security and branding solutions, Mike does it all. He oversees every project from start to finish and is the main point of contact for customers. Mike is certified by 3M, EnerLogic, and AIA for continuing education and is well-versed in the nuances of both commercial and residential installs.