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How to Protect Outdoor Furniture From Sun Damage
Homeowners who own patios with furniture might be aware that water and dirt are two ways their patio furniture can be worn down. But another threat to the quality of their furniture is the sun. Sun damage, or photobleaching as it’s sometimes called, is when the color of a material fades away over time due to exposure to light or sunlight. Just like how rays from the sun can damage skin, it can damage material too. You probably know photobleaching best when the colors fade on outdoor furniture or a painting in the sun. The fade on patio furniture is a combination of sunlight and air that affects the materials over time. You might have also heard this process known as yellowing or photodegradation. Patio furniture spends the most time in the sun and is usually not very cheap. So to protect your patio furniture’s quality, here are some tips on how to prevent sun damage.
Use Paint or Material with Water and UV-resistant Color
If you’re painting patio furniture, go with UV-resistant paints such as Krylon, NeverFade®, or Rust-oleum (for metallic spray finishes). If you’re choosing patio furniture, try to pick ones that material are made with these materials that are resistant to harsh exposure.
Plan a Furniture Layout Around the Sun
How does your patio face the sun? You can avoid major fading by placing furniture in strategic spots to minimize sun exposure during the day. A sofa set closer to the house will stay protected from sun bleaching by maximizing the shade of the house.
Buy Non-plastic Patio Furniture
Plastics react a bit more drama to the sun when compared to other materials such as wood, steel, or wrought iron. Not only can plastics suffer from severe sun damage, but they can quickly become brittle if left in the sun.
Buy Collapsible Outdoor Patio Furniture
Folding chairs can also last longer than permanent fixtures because you can stow them away from the sun. Leaving collapsible chairs/tables out will expose them to the sun. Store them in a dark place to increase their lifespan.
Buy Collapsible Outdoor Patio Furniture
Folding chairs can also last longer than permanent fixtures because you can stow them away from the sun. Leaving collapsible chairs/tables out will expose them to the sun. Store them in a dark place to increase their lifespan.
The Best Solution for Preventing Sun Damage to Patio Furniture: Installing Retractable Awnings
It might be funny to think that your outdoor patio furniture can get sunburned, but it can. If you want your outdoor furniture to last for a long time, investing in a quality retractable awning is the best way to go. A retractable awning will block the sun and enhance the life of your patio furniture (along with the patio). It protects from sun damage, wind, rain, and other forms of precipitation. If you want to enjoy the sun on your patio furniture, you can just retract the awning. Many awnings are motorized, allowing for easy retraction. If you’re interested in a retractable awning for your patio, Shading Texas can help. We have quality outdoor awnings that will help your furniture hold up through the hardest of weather conditions. Contact us today to schedule a free on-site estimate!
Matt Pierce has been working in the solar shade industry for over 15 years, providing sun protection in the extremes of Alaska and Texas. His dedicated team at Shading Texas will get your the sun solutions you need to enjoy your patios and homes for years to come by blocking out bugs, sun, wind, and rain!