What UV Protective Frames Do for Your Artwork
UV protective frames use specialist glazing to cut down the amount of harmful light that reaches a picture, photograph or artwork. That matters in South Africa where strong sun, bright interiors and long daylight hours can speed up fading, especially near windows in homes, offices and galleries. The glazing does not stop all ageing, but it helps reduce the risk and gives your piece a better chance of holding its colour over time.
These frames are a practical choice for family photos, certificates, watercolours, limited edition prints, children’s artwork and exhibition pieces. They suit clients who want a clean presentation with added protection, without changing the look of the original item too much. For valued pieces, the right frame can make a noticeable difference and helps keep them looking good for longer.
Glazing Options, Sizes and Frame Styles
UV protective glazing is available in different levels of clarity and finish. Depending on the artwork and where it will hang, we can recommend acrylic or glass glazing with UV filtering properties. Some pieces suit a clear, near-invisible finish, while others are better with a low-reflection option for bright rooms, galleries or corporate spaces.
We supply custom sizes as well as selected ready-made frame options. Standard sizes can work well for common photo and print formats, while custom framing is better for unusual dimensions, deep canvases or pieces that need a specific border width. If you are framing more than one artwork, we can help you keep a consistent look across a series.
- Custom sizes for one-off artwork, certificates and exhibition pieces
- Ready-made frame options for common photo and print sizes
- Clear or low-reflection glazing choices
- Wood, aluminium and neutral frame finishes
- Mount board options in white, cream and darker tones
Where UV Protective Frames Work Best
UV protective frames are suited to homes, galleries, schools, studios, offices and hospitality spaces. In Johannesburg and Pretoria, they are often used for pieces that hang in rooms with strong morning or afternoon light. In coastal areas such as Cape Town and Durban, the added protection is useful too, especially where humidity and sunlight can both affect paper-based artwork over time.
They are also a good option for pieces that may move between locations. If you are sending work to a gallery, mounting a print in a reception area, or framing photos for a client presentation, UV glazing gives a cleaner long-term result. For inherited artwork or original pieces with sentimental value, many clients choose it simply for peace of mind.
- Homes with bright living rooms or passages near windows
- Galleries and exhibition spaces with lighting on display walls
- Offices, boardrooms and reception areas
- Schools, churches and community spaces
- Coastal homes where moisture and sunlight can both be factors
Installation, Hanging and What the Frame Needs
UV protective frames need no power and no gas. Once made, they are fitted like a standard frame and can be hung on suitable wall fixings. For larger artworks, heavy frames or gallery walls, we can advise on hanging points, spacing and a suitable installation method. Some pieces benefit from anti-theft fittings or extra support, especially in busy public areas.
Before framing, the wall position should be considered. If the artwork will sit in direct sun, even UV glazing should be paired with sensible placement and limited exposure. We also look at the backing, mounting method and spacing so the paper does not touch the glazing. That matters for long-term condition and helps avoid cockling, sticking or pressure marks.
Care, Cleaning and Servicing Over Time
Care is simple. Use a soft dry cloth on the frame and a clean microfibre cloth for the glazing when needed. Avoid harsh cleaners, soaking the edges or spraying directly onto the frame. In humid conditions, check occasionally for condensation, dust build-up or any movement in the hanging fittings. If a frame has been on the wall for years, it may need a fresh seal, replacement mount or updated glazing.
We also handle frame repairs, reframing and glass replacement where needed. If an older item has yellowed mount board, damaged backing or loose corners, it is often worth refurbishing it before the next season. A quick check now can save the artwork later, and it is often more cost effective than replacing the whole frame.
- Keep away from direct sun where possible
- Dust gently, do not use abrasive cloths
- Check hanging wires, hooks and D-rings yearly
- Inspect for signs of moisture, warping or loose joints
- Ask for a refresh if the artwork has shifted in the frame
What to Check When Ordering UV Protective Frames
When ordering, it helps to bring the actual artwork or at least the exact measurements. We need to know the size of the piece, whether it is paper, canvas, photograph or a mixed medium item, and whether it needs a mount board or a floating style. The frame should suit both the artwork and the room it will hang in, so colour, profile depth and glazing finish all matter.
Please also consider whether the item is an original, a limited print or a replacement print, because that can affect the advice we give on protection and presentation. If you want matching frames for several pieces, we can work to a common style while still adjusting each size. For galleries and offices, we often recommend a small test order before framing a larger run.
- Exact artwork size, including any border that should remain visible
- Type of artwork: photo, print, certificate, drawing or canvas
- Preferred frame colour and finish
- Glazing preference: clear, low-reflection or higher protection level
- Whether the piece needs hanging hardware included
Key facts
| Glazing type | UV protective glass or acrylic options |
|---|---|
| Size range | Standard sizes and custom sizes available |
| Frame styles | Wood, aluminium and selected ready-made styles |
| Mount options | Single, double and float mounting available |
| Use case | Photos, prints, certificates, artwork and gallery pieces |
| Power or gas needed | None |
