Keeping Antiques Safe From Harm With Vertical Blinds And Window Coverings

A home seems warm and welcoming with sun shining in, especially in the cool of winter, but that sunlight may destroy antiques. Antique furniture should be protected from the affects of ultraviolet light just as much as your skin. Blocking out direct sunlight using vertical blinds and other window coverings can protect the fragile wood and textiles of antiques. It is always wiser to prevent damage than trying to repair it.

Most people who own antiques value them for monetary as well as personal reasons. Sometimes antiques are heirlooms passed down through generations, collections of old photographs of family members now gone, or diamonds in the rough, bought for small change and painstakingly restored to reveal their true value. No matter how they were found, antiques need to be cared for. One of the enemies of old wood and fabric is sunlight, especially in summer. Sunshine has the power to deteriorate the woods and textiles, as well as pigments used in antique furniture and art.

When deciding on where to place their pieces in their homes, antique owners should make a conscious effort to minimize any possible damage which may occur. Direct sunlight damages wood, no matter what age it may be, but the paints and varnishes used on antique dining room pieces, linen presses and the like are even more susceptible to sun damage. A little thought and planning can keep antique furniture in the best condition.

The ultraviolet light form the sun on both bright and overcast days can bleach wood. Those who own antiques and wish to maintain their health and appearance should block out the sun, or keeping their pieces out of direct sunlight. Antiques should also be kept away from other heat sources such as radiators and central heating ducts.

Many of the textiles used to upholster antique furnishings were dyed with pigments that were not as resistant to wear and tear as modern fabrics. Owners of antique furnishings that still have their original upholstery must protect the fabric or leather from direct sunlight. Sun damage can not only discolor upholstery but also cause permanent and irreversible damage to leather and the threads of fabrics.

The art which many have hanging on their walls is not immune to sun damage. Old photographs, watercolors and oil paintings can all fade, and just as upholstery can be weakened by the affects of ultraviolet light so can the canvas and paper of treasured artworks. When considering where to hang pictures and paintings, sunlight should be a factor in your choice. Pictures and paintings should not be placed in positions where they will receive direct sun, or sunlight should be prevented from shining on them.

Either modern or original wooden floorboards are a beautiful feature in many homes but they must be cared for. Harsh or bright sunlight can discolor wood flooring, leaving it looking patchy. If the sun falls on certain parts of the floor, curtains, blinds or shutters should be used to screen the it in order to protect floorboards.

Sunshine can create a bright and cozy home. Collectors of antiques and those who have the good fortune of original wood floorboards as a feature in their home need to protect their investments from the more damaging aspects of sunshine. Vertical blinds, shutters and shades can all help keep antiques, oil paintings and parquet from being faded and damaged by the sun. It is always better to prevent damage, rather than try and fix it.

Those who are looking to find the best deal on window blinds, should visit blindsfactorydirect.com to find the best prices and service on vertical blinds for you.