Replies

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Jun 11, 2008 11:58pm | #1

   Low e, double hung windows block about 85% of UV light.  If you really want to eliminate UV choose laminated windows, such as used for hurricane impact resistance.  They block 99% of the UV. 

   Shellac is relatively UV resistant, it's draw back for windows is when they get liquid water condensation. 

   I think you can avoid spar varnish, which is relatively soft but still use a window finish that is resistant to UV in some degree.  This would be a tung oil/phenolic varnish, such as Waterlox  That resin and oil combination is relatively good with UV and also with respect to water resistance.  A somewhat dark varnish, it would look good on mahogany I'd think. 

    

1. 
   troys | Jun 12, 2008 03:19am | #2

   Thanks for your reply, I live in the San Francisco bay area and I don't get any condensation on my newer wood double glazed windows but the old steel framed single glazed widows do get condensation if the the shades are down. Take care and thanks again.Troy

1. 
   saschafer | Jun 12, 2008 04:43am | #3

   Where in the Bay Area are you? There's a big difference in the moisture situation between, say, Pacifica and Castro Valley.

   -Steve

    

1. 
   troys | Jun 12, 2008 05:52am | #4

   Alameda, not as foggy as Pacifica but cooler than Castro Valley.Troy

1. 
   saschafer | Jun 12, 2008 06:09am | #5

   I grew up in Richmond and didn't realize until we moved away that there were places where it wasn't overcast every morning....

   I think moisture will be somewhat of a concern where you are, so I'd stay away from unprotected shellac, but I don't think you need to worry about UV. Any good quality indoor varnish should be fine.

   -Steve

    

2. 
   troys | Jun 12, 2008 07:58pm | #7

   Thanks, Troy

2. 
   WillGeorge | Jun 12, 2008 03:35pm | #6

   I would say ASK your window supplier.. They will/may use to pre-finish as to what you want! May cost a bit but perfect in the long run if they will do in the factory..

   You get what you want and if problems they come out and NOT YOU!

1. 
   troys | Jun 12, 2008 08:00pm | #8

   If they are available pre-finished I will most certainly go that way, painting or varnishing window mullions and frames are not high on my list of fun,Troy