The Perils of Sunlight

Sunlight, for many centuries, has proven to be a great constant in everyday living.  The sun has provided more than light to our existence and we continue to discover new information surrounding it's uses as well as it's dangers.  As a culture, we are very aware of the sun's ultraviolet rays and therefore the prevalence of skin cancer, but the sun can also cause damage our most prized possessions at a costly price.

In today's society, there's a high demand for large, open interior spaces that are overflowing with natural light.  This new trend has brought more light in buildings, which does conserve energy but at the same time, interior fabrics, paintings and finishes have become more susceptible to damage.  Currently, due to ozone depletion, higher levels of solar UV now reach the surface of the earth, harming items at a faster rate.  Ultraviolet radiation is invisible to the human eye but is the single largest contributing factor in fading of fabrics, carpets and other furnishings.  Although other factors such as visible light, electric lighting, heating, humidity, age of fabrics, and fabric dyes all play a part in the process, UV radiation is attributed to 40% of the damage.  Even in cold, cloudy climates, UV radiation can damage furnishings (Advanced Solar Guide Control, 2003). 

What is fading?
Fading is a change in color with time.  Fading is measured by evaluating the color of a material at two or more points in time. 

Fading has two main causes.  The first is chemical; where chemical changes in the coloring agents of the material can cause a change in color.  The second cause can be wear or abrasion, or the physical removal of coloring agents from a material's surface.   Fading of upholstery, linens, furniture and wood is not apparent at first but over time, the difference can be astonishing. 

What can be done to prevent fading?
According to the International Window Film Association (IWFA), Scientist have found that blocking all of the ultraviolet radiation portion of the solar spectrum would not eliminate fade damage for most fabrics and wood, but it would slow down the rate of fading by a factor of about three. 

Start taking precautions and protect your paint, furnishings, wood work, art, and loved ones against the harmful ultraviolet damage that the sun can cause.  We carry only the best window tints and window film products in Colorado, such as 3M™ High Performance window film, Huper Optik Select and Ceramic Series window films and Llumar Color Stable window films to ensure you get the best performance.

At All American Window Tinting, our staff is equipped with years of knowledge and expert training to ensure that all your window needs and concerns are met.   All American Window Tinting, Inc., we stand behind our work and promise to deliver only the highest of quality products with a professional installation that is sure to stand the test of time.  Contact us today for questions, to get a free quote or learn more about your window tinting options.