Guardian Glass introduces the new Bird1st™ UV glass, an advanced addition to its bird-friendly glass portfolio designed to meet new building requirements while helping to preserve views and to reduce IG unit costs. This product offers the least visible option to humans in Guardian’s bird-friendly range and complies with New York City’s Local Law 15 and other U.S. regulations requiring a Threat Factor ≤25.
Bird1st UV emphasises human visual comfort and façade aesthetics by applying a patterned UV-reflective coating on the exterior glass surface. This patented coating reflects up to 75% of UV light, which birds can see but remains nearly invisible to people. A laminated interlayer on the second surface absorbs over 99% of UV light outside patterned areas, enhancing contrast for birds without disrupting clear views for building occupants. The non-directional pattern is available in large sheet sizes – split jumbo (130 x 102 in.), jumbo (130 x 204 in) and super jumbo (130 x 240 in.) – help to improve fabrication yield and to lower glazing costs compared to the first-generation product.
Bird1st UV has been approved by the American Bird Conservancy (ABC) alongside various Guardian SunGuard™ low-E coatings, including SNX 70+, SNX 60+, SNX 62/27, SNX 51/23, SN 68 and Neutral 78/65. Available on both Guardian UltraClear™ low-iron and Clear glass substrates, it offers architects flexibility in energy performance, light transmission and aesthetics. The laminated glass also provides added security and sound control, making it a versatile glazing solution.
Compatibility with multiple European SunGuard coatings means Bird1st UV supports global project teams, enabling consistent performance across North American and international projects subject to local regulations.
Alan Kinder, Guardian Glass Director of Commercial Demand Creation, highlighted the growing demand for bird-friendly glazing driven by increased awareness of collision risks. He noted architects seek solutions that balance performance, design and stewardship, while meeting emerging local building codes.
Suresh Devisetti, Guardian Glass VP of Global Product & Sector Management, explained the technical challenge of developing a glass solution that meets building standards while maintaining transparency and aesthetic appeal. The broad range of coating and substrate options supports energy efficiency, code compliance and architectural intent.