There is an interesting scene in the latest box office success from Christopher Nolan, Oppenheimer, (based on the Manhattan Project). While waiting to witness the first atomic bomb test, one of the scientists climbs into his vehicle to watch the demonstration. While other scientists are diligently putting on safety glasses and sunblock, this scientist waves off their reproaches to put some on, tapping the glass of the car windshield and saying that “the glass stops the radiation.” His dismissive colleague then wryly answers, “What stops the glass?”
This slightly humorous exchange during an extremely tense moment in the movie, before an atomic bomb is set off for the first time, may not seem that important. However, it highlights a common misconception many people have about windows. Glass windows are pretty good at limiting our exposure to radiation from sunlight. Even though the light comes through the window, almost all commercial and automobile glass ends up blocking UVB rays, which are the kind we need to boost vitamin D levels. In the window cleaning world, it’s a common phrase to hear that clean windows will boost your vitamin D exposure because it’s easier for the light to come through, but that’s false. You can’t get better UVB exposure through the light that comes through your windows, whether they are clean or not.
In the dead of winter, when our exposure to sunlight dips, vitamin D deficiency is common. But now we know that sitting in front of a window wouldn’t help boost your vitamin D levels. Instead, it’s recommended that you still spend time outside during the day or use a supplement. With this in mind, what is the benefit of having cleaning windows in the winter for your health? Here are some real health benefits you can get from cleaning your windows:
- Reduced mold and mildew exposure. The condensation on your windows during the winter months can cause mold and mildew to form in the gaps in the window. Regularly cleaning your windows can help stop this from happening. You can also add a water-repellent solution to your cleaning process to prevent condensation from developing after cleaning.
- Reduced dust exposure. Dirt and dust build-up on windows can also slip in through cracks or tiny gaps in your windows. The build-up also reduces the light exposure and makes your view more cloudy.
- Natural sunlight helps reduce seasonal depression. Sitting in front of a sunny view in the winter doesn’t help your body produce more vitamin D. However, this can still help you feel better! Exposure to natural light, even through a window, is good for our mental health, especially during the dark winter months when seasonal depression is more common.
Cleaning your windows in the winter is a hassle. But it can help you stay healthy and reduce your exposure to dust and germs. Plus, it makes it easier to enjoy the sunlight when it’s cold outside. So, if you want clean windows in your home or business this winter, let us help. We offer window cleaning services for businesses and homes year-round!
