Although residents in many parts of Alaska experience extended hours of uninterrupted daylight in summer, the sun is also intense during winter months. Because it hangs low in the sky, ultraviolet rays can peer into interiors all day, discoloring and fading wooden and upholstered home furniture in the process. Taking the pre-emptive measures below will help protect your investments from the damaging effect of winter sunlight. 

3 Ways to Prevent Winter Sun Damage to Home Furniture

1. Place Window Film on Glass 

Installing protective solar film on window glass will allow you to bathe interiors in the warm glow of visible sunlight while keeping out harmful UV and infrared light. Because the membranes are clear, they won’t impact the aesthetic of rooms or obstruct views to the outside. Apart from stopping furniture in direct sunlight from fading, the film will also prevent heat transfer and air loss to keep energy costs low. 

2. Invest in Window Treatments

Placing drapes and curtains over windows will help extend the life expectancy of home furniture. To ensure the installations can effectively block out the sun, choose treatments that cover the entire length and width of windows. Blackout fabrics have foam backing to keep out light that would otherwise filter through thinner materials when shades and curtains are closed. The extra layer of protection will also help keep interiors insulated. 

3. Rearrange Furniture 

To eliminate the threat of ultraviolet damage, move home furniture out of the direct path of sunlight. Otherwise, tables, couches, and additional objects close to windows will fade rapidly. Darker fabrics and wooden fixtures will show signs of discoloration faster than lighter materials, so place these items as far away from windows as possible. Rearranging the layout once every few months will ensure areas aren’t exposed to sunlight for too long, preventing blotchy patches. Rugs should also be moved periodically to avoid unsightly outlines on flooring.

If ultraviolet light has caused premature wear to your solid wood or leather furniture, find beautiful replacements at Furniture Classics in Anchorage, AK. For over 25 years, the staff has helped area residents find high-quality products by Vanguard®, Hickory White®, Cresent®, and more top brands. They will also share interior design advice to help you showcase your personal style. To inquire about specific home furniture available at the Anchorage location, call (907) 278-6844. Visit the furniture store online for an extensive list of their manufacturers, and keep in touch on Facebook to see product photos from their showroom.