Opaque Materials & UV Resistance: Advice for Buying Curtains

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Opaque materials are not inherently UV resistant; their protection depends on the specific material and additives used. Normal glass windows allow UV-A to pass while blocking UV-B and UV-C. Many opaque polymers and pigments can degrade under UV exposure, with red items being particularly prone to fading. Brighter and paler colors, as well as white, are more susceptible to sun damage, although all dyes eventually fade. When purchasing curtains, consider materials like polyester with UV protectors for better durability, and be aware that higher-quality options generally offer improved performance.
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is anything that looks opaque already resistant to uv immediately? or does it depend on material or addictive? I am buying curtain. Please give me some advice.
 
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If you have normal glass windows then UV-A will pass but UV-B and UV-C will be blocked.
Many opaque polymers and pigments are damaged by UV.
Metal films can be reflective and so can protect the curtains.
 
Also note that items colored Red are particularly sensitive to fading.
 
kenny1999 said:
is anything that looks opaque already resistant to uv immediately?
No.
 
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Tom.G said:
Also note that items colored Red are particularly sensitive to fading.
Depends on the colour.

Rule of thumb is brighter and paler (or both) colours and white are subject to fading but all dyes are affected by the sun eventually.

Polyester are dyed with disperse dyes and there are ranges that perform very well, some are used in the automotive on interior upholstery.
UV protectors can be added to the dye bath for extra protection.
Reactive dyes for cotton.
Retailers have requirements for performance for curtains but you do get what you pay for.
 
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