Outdoor furniture is often quite expensive so the last thing you want is to have your new throw pillows or cushions show signs of sun fading or exposure to the elements after only a few months. While the PNW might not have long harsh summers, it doesn’t take long for UV rays to penetrate fabric, leaving the once bright colors looking dull and worn. While our eyes are often drawn to the brightest colors available or you’re trying to update your space with trendy colors, sticking to colors that tend to show less signs of sun fading is key in the longevity of your outdoor furniture.
What Colors Show the Least Amount of Sun Fading?
Neutral Tones
Neutral colors like beige, taupe, and gray are renowned for their resistance to sun fading. Their subtle hues possess a timeless elegance and blend seamlessly with various outdoor settings. Moreover, neutral tones tend to reflect rather than absorb sunlight, reducing the risk of color distortion and fading.
Earthy Shades
Inspired by nature’s palette, earthy shades such as terracotta, olive green, and rust exhibit remarkable resilience against sun fading. These colors harmonize effortlessly with outdoor surroundings, evoking a sense of tranquility and warmth. Additionally, earthy tones possess inherent UV resistance, making them an ideal choice for outdoor furniture upholstery and finishes.
Deep Blues and Greens
Rich, deep shades of blue and green exude sophistication while offering excellent protection against sun fading. Indigo, navy, forest green, and teal are particularly resilient colors that retain their intensity even in prolonged sunlight exposure. Their depth and complexity add depth to outdoor spaces, creating an inviting ambiance that withstands the test of time.
Darker Hues
Dark colors such as charcoal, espresso, and deep burgundy are inherently less susceptible to sun fading compared to lighter shades. Their dense pigmentation absorbs minimal UV radiation, preserving their vividness and allure over extended periods. Dark hues also lend a touch of opulence and refinement to outdoor furniture arrangements, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.
Just like some colors tend to show the least amount of sun fading, it’s also important to remember that there are colors that show the most sun fading, one in particular is red, especially deep or bright reds. This is true in all aspects, red cars for example fade faster than other colors. Another common color that shows sun fading is pink or neon/brightly pigmented colors. While selecting colors that hold up to UV rays is the easiest way to prevent premature fading, other ways to help prolong your furniture’s vibrancy is by applying UV protectant or keeping your cushions and furniture in shaded areas such as under pergolas or awnings.
Once you’ve hired a full-service landscaping company to help you create the outdoor space of your dreams, the last thing you want is to have premature sun faded furniture. Try sticking to some of the above mentioned colors, or, if time and storage allows, simply bring your cushions or pillows indoors when not in use to help prolong their life and keep them vibrant.