Fading is characterised as the gradual loss of colour of paint pigment, which results in the lightening of the surface. This is a common painting problem on dark-coloured walls, as these tend to absorb more heat than lighter tones. As a result, there are more susceptible to paint deterioration. The problem may also be due to your location. If you’re living in a coastal area, for instance, the sea salt and atmospheric moisture create a corrosive environment that causes your paint to fade rapidly.
In this guide, we explore the causes of fading and some ways you can counter them. Let’s start!
What causes fading?
1 – Your walls may be subjected to prolonged exposure to sunlight
As mentioned above, walls constantly exposed to sunlight fades faster than the expected duration. High levels of ultraviolet (UV) rays are mostly the culprit, making your walls vulnerable to several more painting issues, and not just fading.
2 – There may be sudden changes in the thermal difference
Are your walls subject to sudden changes in temperature levels? This also contributes to fading. Remember: the greater the temperature extremes, the greater the damage and stress on the painted walls. Spiking thermal differences causes the process of deterioration to hasten, ultimately leading to fading.
3 – You may have over-tinted
Heat and temperature remain to be the main culprits, but fading can happen due to painting mistakes, too. Adding unnecessary amounts of colourants, for instance, can trigger sudden and rapid fading.
4 – Or you may have over-thinned
Any painting job, DIY or otherwise, requires a proper application. Over-thinning your paint, for instance, helps UV rays penetrate the coating easier, ultimately leading to quick fading.
Possible ways to counter fading
1 – Use window curtains or shades
Installing curtains or shades helps prevent sun damage, especially if you use them all the time. If you’re fine with missing out on views or natural lighting, then this solution is for you. As you choose window curtains or shades, make sure that they’re the right type and size to maximise their benefits. A thermal curtain, for example, can help you save on energy costs. They also cancel out noise, making them a versatile choice for your home!
2 – Use a window film tint
If you’re one to enjoy views and healthy doses of natural light, a home window tint may be the perfect solution for you. They can help reduce 90 per cent of sun damage, particularly UV rays that cause fading. Window film tints also reduce glare, so you will be able to enjoy outdoor views even at the sun’s brightest hours during summer. Tints can also be maintained and washed just like a regular window!
Conclusion
From everything discussed, it’s safe to surmise that fading is primarily caused by natural elements. Fighting off Mother Nature can be difficult, especially if you’re one to enjoy the sunshine. There are ways to counter the harmful effects, though, so keep our tips in mind!
If you’re looking for services in home window tinting in Sydney, our team at Premier Tint is the best one around. We’ll protect your home for you—contact our team now for more information!