Wood is an organic way to make a house feel like a home. Its warmth and natural design are unrivaled by other materials. Wood is a beautiful, natural material that can change over time when exposed to light. The process called photosensitivity is normal and doesn’t indicate that your wood furniture is necessarily damaged.
Some individuals relish the changes that take place as wood ages since it often gives the material a more interesting appearance. However, if you don’t like the way your wood flooring is fading, there are a few things you can try to prevent or delay the change.
What does photosensitivity mean?
The degree to which wood changes colour when exposed to light is known as photosensitivity. The faster a wood changes colour when exposed to light, the more photosensitive it is. “Photochemical reaction” is the term used to describe what happens when light energy causes chemical changes.
A well-known result of overexposure to the sun is a tan. The process by which wood is photochemically altered is not fully understood and happens at a much slower pace. However, it is widely accepted that certain chemicals in wood are responsible for its photosensitivity.
The typical change is that the wood will darken in colour. Depending on the type of wood, finish, and amount of sunlight exposure, the colour change will be different.
Is it true that certain woods change colour more quickly?
The speed at which wood changes colour varies depending on the type of wood.
For example, light-coloured woods like birch and maple will alter colour more quickly than dark woods like walnut and mahogany. Lighter woods are more transparent, so the wood grain is visible and it reacts to sunlight and other environmental elements.
On the contrary, darker woods don’t let sunlight through as much and therefore aren’t impacted by it to the same degree. Their natural colour is usually more vibrant and lasts longer.
Exotic wood species like Jatoba or Cumaru are well known for their ability to change colors considerably. Over time, they may transform into an entirely different colour.
Before you choose your wood floor, seek expert advice on how your wood floor will change over time. Don’t be discouraged when the wood floor you just installed doesn’t match the color of the sample in the store.
How can I keep my wood floor from fading?
The main problem that causes colour changes in wood floors is exposure to UV light. The truth is, there’s not much you can do to prevent it entirely.
However, you may take measures to ensure that your floor changes color evenly and without isolated locations that are considerably darker or brighter than the rest.
Windows should be covered or shuttered with blinds or curtains.
To prevent fading, you may try using window coverings to block the light. Curtains or blinds can help reduce UV radiation that causes wood deterioration.
Furniture and rugs should be rearranged regularly.
To ensure that your hardwood floor does not discolor due to UV radiation, reposition your furniture on a regular basis. This helps to evenly distribute the light and prevents any location from receiving too much sunlight.
To keep your wood floors from changing color unevenly, periodically rearrange any rugs you have. As we’ve seen, the sun will naturally alter areas of your floor that it reaches more directly, so by shifting your carpets about, you may help keep the colour consistent.
Refinish your wood flooring.
If you’re still not sure about the colour of your floor, why not get professional help to refinish it? This will provide you with a fresh start as well as guarantee that your floor is in good condition.
