From painful sunburns to the risk of melanoma, everyone knows the damage too much sun exposure can do to your skin.
But did you know the same ultraviolet radiation that damages your skin may also harm your building facade? UV rays can cause both physical and chemical changes when they come into contact with some building materials. Natural and synthetic materials alike may be affected.
Fortunately, there are things you can do to protect your assets and prolong the service life and aesthetic appearance of your exterior. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is UV Radiation?
According to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), UV light exists outside of the visible light spectrum. This means you can’t actually see it when you look out the window on a sunny day. But just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean it isn’t there, as anyone who has forgotten their sunscreen for a day at the beach can attest.
Just as UV light harms human skin, it can also impact the exterior of our homes and commercial buildings. Some architectural materials can be affected by UV damage after prolonged exposure, which may reduce their service life. This is especially true in geographic regions that receive heavy sunlight.
What Are the Effects of UV Radiation on Building Materials?
Prolonged UV exposure can have many effects on exterior building assets.
Masonry, stucco and concrete are especially vulnerable, as UV rays may damage polymers within the material. Excessive exposure may contribute to cracking, along with spalling radiating from joints or seams. Radiation may also break down pigments, which can lead to fading or discoloration for a dirty, dated appearance.
The type and quality of exterior paint can play a role in the effects of UV rays, with some brands more vulnerable to fading and chipping. Some roofing materials may also become brittle over time from UV exposure. On the flip side, materials such as silicone, acrylic and some types of glass may have greater resistance to UV damage.
Finally, your geographic location determines how much sunlight your building receives throughout the year.
How Can You Restore & Protect Building Materials?
Choosing UV-resistant building materials and protective coatings may reduce the sun’s negative impact and lengthen the lifespan of your building’s exterior.
For masonry and stone, sealants can be selected based on the amount of sunlight your building receives. Choosing a product that increases UV-resistance as well as waterproofing can protect the functional and aesthetic value of the substrate. Sealing and caulking also prevent moisture penetration and other forms of damage. Professional cleaning removes dirt and debris that degrade your building’s appearance. Ongoing maintenance after cleaning and sealing prolongs the life of the finish for longer-lasting results.
If you’re looking to correct the effects of accumulated damage or preserve the appearance of your facade, Mid America Specialty Services offers a range of architectural restoration services to meet your needs.
You can reach us at 800-544-4576 or contact us online.
