Sunlight reaches any surface it can touch. The UV rays start to break down the material’s structure. Over time, this process can result in fading colors.
But what items are the most at risk of enduring sun damage? Continue reading to find out which items are the most susceptible and how to prevent them from fading.
Your outdoor furniture
Outdoor furniture sits on the patio all year long and endures the constant presence of the sun. Natural materials are the most susceptible to fading from sun damage. Items made of wool or cotton are more likely to lose their vibrancy rapidly. Perhaps your outdoor furniture has plastic components, or you store your child’s plastic toys outside. Although plastic seems indestructible, prolonged sunlight exposure can break some types down.
Solution
Many synthetic materials cause less of a worry. Outdoor furniture composed of polyester, nylon, or acrylic are tougher, so UV rays don’t greatly impact them.
Your car’s paint job
When the UV rays reach your car, they penetrate the surface. The outer-coating dissolves, and the paint color is the next element affected. The paint is now at risk of rusting, fading, and enduring splotches across the exterior.
Solution
One of the best ways to protect your car from the sun is to park in a shaded area. This will give the paint job the protection it needs and reduce rapid fading.
Your car’s interior
The paint job is the only feature to worry about. Cars that spend ample time in the sunlight can have fading interiors too.The seats and dashboard are the most vulnerable components. UV rays radiate through the windows and affect the surfaces. As time goes on, you’ll see the dashboard and seats lose their luster.
Solution
A sun shield for the windshield will reduce the amount of sunlight penetrating the vehicle’s interior. Another option is to install car seat covers to protect the car’s original seats.
Your asphalt roof
One of the things that bears the bulk of UV rays is an asphalt roof. Continuous exposure reduces the shingles’ original shade. Any debris will only expedite deterioration.
Solution
Roofs aren’t as easy to protect as other items listed above. The best thing you can do is maintain the quality of the shingles to avoid expediting fading. Remove leaves and branches and any signs of mold and mildew. Keep the gutters clean too.Another method is to choose a lighter shingle color. Dark hues absorb more sunlight and show signs of fading sooner. When it’s time to install a new roof, a lighter-colored roof is the best option.
