Blocking window sunlight?

[fladiver]

I have a rectangular tank that’s between two windows with plantation shutters. I’m wondering if there is an easy DIY (and hopefully visually appealing) solution to try and minimize the light at least directly entering the aquarium to try and avoid future algae issues.

I’m wondering if something like the clear window film you see put on exterior windows that minimizes or completely blocks sunlight could do the trick? I would really be looking to put it only on the sides of the tank that are closest to each window. I assume I could just put some kind of cardboard or construction paper on the sides, but I’m wondering if there is an alternative that gets the job done without taking away from the aesthetics of the aquarium.

Would love to hear how others have dealt with this issue. Thanks.

 

[Subsea]

It’s not an issue for me.
Actually, I enjoy the shimmering effects of direct sunlight. It’s the heat gain I don’t like, which is why I installed 70% shade cloth on 20’ by 40’ greenhouse used for mariculture.

“avoid future algae issues.”

Removing red, green & yellow spectrum from sunlight does not assure you of being nuisance algae free. In fact, I prefer running white light between 6500 & 10K Kevin color spectrum.

I’m wondering if something like the clear window film you see put on exterior windows that minimizes or completely blocks sunlight could do the trick? I would really be looking to put it only on the sides of the tank that are closest to each window. I assume I could just put some kind of cardboard or construction paper on the sides, but I’m wondering if there is an alternative that gets the job done without taking away from the aesthetics of the aquarium.

Would love to hear how others have dealt with this issue. Thanks.

 

[56longroof]

I'm with @Subsea . I enjoy the natural lighting. A good clean up crew will take care of any algea issues that pop up.