UV + Screens

TokayK · Posted: Fri Apr 20, 2007 10:53 pm Post subject: UV + Screens

Hi everyone,
I was talking to a friend today, and he said that he was told that a study was done showing that a UV light will lose some of its power going through normal screening on the top of an enclosure... Is this true????

I'd hate to think that my poor little beardie is'nt getting all the rays he needs. Please let me know, I'm kinda worried.
Thanks

Furless-Friends · Member Joined: Jan 19, 2007 Posts: 15

Depending on how tight the mesh is then yeah some of the UV will be blocked.

It also depends on the distance between light and the animal

desrptile · Posted: Sun Apr 29, 2007 8:10 am Post subject:

It absolutely is blocking/scattering some of the uvb rays from your light. It doesnt matter if you have a mvb or a tube, either or, the metal is going to disperse (sp?) the projection of your bulb.

worleygurl · Posted: Sun Apr 29, 2007 9:52 am Post subject:

I have a UVB meter and have tested various bulbs over the years. I have also tested behind various screens, glass, trees, etc. (I like my gadgets and like to play LOL)

Anyway, you know those open air reptariums that are sold? You see a lot of people use them for chams...They block over 45% of the UVB. I have 1/4" hardware cloth which obviously blocks a whole lot less UVB. The bigger the hole/spacing, the less UVB that will be blocked.

Please keep in mind that even tho UVB is blocked/disperssed by screen/mesh, you still need to cover your bulb with something to eliminate the dangers of having a completely exposed bulb.
_________________
Kris, Herps they're not just a hobby, they're a way of life!

TokayK · Posted: Sun Apr 29, 2007 3:52 pm Post subject:

Ok. That makes sense... The way it was mentioned to me, it sounded like UV was mostly blocked no matter what size mesh. I have to admit, it sounded like the idea was poorly researched---and wrong. I have good sized mesh for my beardie and my tegu, I just did not want to have to put the lights inside the enclosures.

Thanks!