Re: UV Protection From Housing Materials and Colors

Hello Matthew!  I'm sorry to hear about your struggle with cancer.  

UV rays cannot penetrate your roof.  It has shingles, wood, then probably 
an attic, another roof etc.  We are not dealing with gamma radiation or x-
radiation here.  So, if you have a roof without holes, you are all set.  

Inside your home, you need to take a look at your windows, because this 
is how the sunlight and the UV is going to get in. 

If your windows are made from plain glass, they will probably transmit 
almost 100% of the UV part of the light spectrum.
[note added by MadSci Admin:  There are three regions of the UV spectrum.
Glass transmits the UVA fairly well, but not UVB and UVC.  Look for
previous answers in our archives by searching on "UVA glass".]
If you have a new 
home, some new windows are set up to block UV.  The amount of light 
transmission is usually found from the window manufacturer.  They may 
also be able to tell you how much UV filtration is available.  New 
windows can be expensive, so if you are making a decision to replace them 
shop carefully.  UV ray absorbing material may diminish over time, so be 
sure to check with the manufacturer.  

Generally speaking, dark colors will absorb more light than lighter 
colors.  Standing next to a light color material will result in more 
light striking you.  Standing next to dark colors will result in more 
light being absorbed by the material.  Keep in mind you will still be 
struck by some light.  

I have to throw in a caution here.  Be mindful of scams.  If someone 
comes along and offers to paint your house in a "UV absorbing paint" for 
some fee, and does nothing about the windows, it may be a con.  There are 
a lot of people out there that take advantage of people's fears.  

It's important to note that when talking about cancer occurrence, we talk 
about cancer risks.  Sunlight (and UV) doesn't simply cause cancer.  If 
that were the case, everyone that ever went outside would have it.  What 
is found is that the exposures (usually over-exposures) cause an 
increased risk in getting the cancer.  You may be a victim of skin cancer 
simply because of your genetic makeup, not necessarily your sun exposure.

I applaud your care in controlling your unnecessary exposures, though.  
Since you've had at least two instances of cancer, don't forget about the 
sunscreen!