Light protection

We all want to let the ample Southern California light into our homes, but it can do harm to furniture. We asked experts exactly what causes the damage and how to protect against it while still enjoying the light.

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What causes furniture to fade

Heat and glare together can be more damaging than UV radiation.

Sunlight: UV radiation 40%; Visible light (glare) 25%; Heat 25%; Other (humidity, chemicals, dyes) 10%

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Protection from UV radiation

If you’re trying to protect something that is sitting in direct sunlight, you must also block heat and glare. Some products address all three issues of sunlight: the heat, the glare and UV. These films can filter the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.

Blocking UV with different film grades:

Laminate: 99%

Single pane tint: 49%-64%

Single pane clear: 21%-34%

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Things to remember

If furniture or flooring is warm to the touch, then heat is the bigger problem.

If you’re trying to protect something across the room that is away from direct sunlight, blocking the ultraviolet rays is effective.

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Sources: Pacific Energy Center; Window Solutions; 3MX

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Researched by Lisa Boone Los Angeles Times