Homes that allow lots of natural light into rooms are in demand because most people enjoy a sunny atmosphere. Who doesn’t want the morning sun beaming in during breakfast? Unfortunately, the UV rays in that light can take a toll on home interiors, so protecting furniture from sun discoloration is essential. Light discolors materials and can also, eventually, cause them to fall apart. The sun will fade upholstery and carpets and damage artwork.
While many older houses have shutters, awnings, and wide porches that protect interiors, these features are not standard on most modern homes. But, owners have other options. They can apply protective window film and choose interior window treatments that block light. Sealing wood furnishings can help, and exterior awnings add style and protection.
1. Apply Exterior Window Film
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, window films help block solar heat gain and offer protection against glare and ultraviolet exposure. Films are especially effective in climates with long cooling seasons since they can block the sun’s heat during hot, summer weather. Because solar window film allows the sunny side of homes to be cooler, residents are also more comfortable.
Solar heat is responsible for interior damage, and window films typically reject 99% of the sun’s UV radiation. The film can reject as much as 79% of solar heat and 91% of visible light, depending on the product. Suppliers offer a wide range of window film for house applications, and customers can find materials that provide maximum UV protection.
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2. Seal Wood Furniture
Wood furnishings add beauty and warmth to homes, but some types of wood darken or fade when exposed to the sun. Sealing wood with polyurethane, shellac, varnish, lacquer, wax, or oil finishes shields them. Sealants protect the wood from spills and UV damage and also enhance the beauty of the wood grain. According to Angi.com home upkeep experts, homeowners should choose the best sealant for their furniture’s type of wood.
3. Use Protective Window Treatments
The decorative curtains, shades, and blinds commonly added to windows also offer sun protection. Homeowners can choose from a range of options that complement their decor and shield interiors.
Drapes and curtains can protect spaces, but some are more effective than others, depending on the fabric. Roman shades block sunlight, ensure privacy, and can be rolled up when not in use. Louvered, or Venetian, blinds, can also be raised and lowered and effectively block heat gain from sunlight.
Before the heat of the day builds inside your sweet room, it’s a good idea to close all the blinds to block any sunlight and heat. Drapes and curtains are great for blocking the sun’s rays and keeping hot air out during the summer and warm air in during the winter. They work best with blinds or shades installed.
4. Install Decorative Awnings
Per Architectural Digest, awnings are not only decorative, but they offer both indoor and outdoor sun protection and act as a shield against rain or snow. Awnings may be added to doors and windows and make ideal patio coverings.
Awnings are very effective at blocking the sun’s heat and reducing energy costs.
To block the direct sun’s heat in the period of summer and allow the sun’s rays to filter through during winter, professionals prefer to install properly for each latitude.
UV rays from the sun can fade home interiors and furniture, but there are ways to shield belongings. Adding film to windows’ exteriors offers protection, as do awnings. Interior window treatments can also help. Shades, blinds, curtains, and drapes help to filter the sun’s rays and reduce energy use. Homeowners can also seal wood furnishings as an extra safeguard.
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