Here in Florida, some of the not so “fun in the sun” dangers of overexposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays are back in the forefronts of our minds. If we haven’t gotten ahead of them, Pollen and dust are ruining some perfect summer days for some. Fortunately, true Floridians know how to adjust to just about anything our weather springs on us. Staying in good health no matter what is going on outside is just a matter of adjusting to our environment.

While some sun exposure is beneficial to your health by providing a natural source of Vitamin D to the body (which aids in absorbing calcium and phosphorus - essential for healthy bones), overexposure to the sun is nothing to ignore.

One of the greatest benefits of living in Florida is the luxury of having nearby beaches. But, the last thing we want is for the beach to become dangerous to our health and appearance, rather than the refreshing, soul replenishing place it should be.

Dangers of overexposure to the sun (or Excessive Sun Exposure) include:

• Deterioration of the skin, including premature ageing and loss of elasticity. We don’t do wrinkles in Florida!
• Rashes, itchiness, and dryness. Salt air should result in soft skin and beachy hair, not misery.
• Damage to the eyes.
• Sunburn.
• Skin cancer.
• Misery.

While an annoyance in general, pollen and dust also come with their own dangers to our respiratory health. At the very least, our allergies are irritated, and where’s the fun in that?

While we don’t spend all of our time outside, exposed to direct beach sun or pollen, when we’re home, without good window protection, these elements still pose a health risk, even if we don’t fully realize it. Good thing protection is just a matter of knowing the secret of perfect Florida windows.

Wouldn’t it be great to feel the Florida air, be protected from pollen and UV rays, and still have a great view of the natural beauty just outside our windows? Well, here’s a little secret to enjoying the best of both worlds: retractable solar screens. Depending on the direction the sun is hitting your home at any given time of day, whether your windows are opened or closed, solar screens can be pulled down to block the harmful rays and pollen when needed, then neatly and automatically rolled back up when not in use.

Beyond protecting your body from UV rays, pollen, and dust, retractable screens also significantly lower your power bill and protect your furniture and flooring from fading. So, just like anything else in Florida, to get the best our piece of paradise has to offer, knowing the secret of perfect Florida windows is right up there with knowing how to avoid tourist traps!