Marble and sunlight - How does natural stone behave in summer?
How to protect your natural stone table from UV radiation
Dear reader,
With the arrival of summer, we spend more time outdoors and enjoy the warming rays of the sun. Many of you also appreciate the natural ambience and elegance of natural stone tables in your outdoor area. These fine pieces, be they made of marble, quartzite, travertine or onyx, not only bring a special aesthetic to your surroundings, but also require special attention to preserve their beauty.
In this article we would like to explain to you how UV light can affect natural stone, which types of natural stone are particularly vulnerable and how you can effectively protect your valuable natural stone table.
The effect of UV light on natural stone
Natural stone is a natural and robust material, but ultraviolet radiation (UV light) can change its appearance slightly in the long term.
UV rays, which are part of sunlight, can break the chemical bonds in the stones, causing color changes.
Natural stone can become slightly discolored or faded by sunlight, and this effect is primarily due to the reaction of certain minerals in the stone with UV radiation.
Although sunlight can alter natural stone, these changes are often minimal and help give the material a unique character. Over time, the stone develops a patina that makes it even more authentic and visually appealing. This natural aging highlights the stone's organic origins and history and can enrich its appearance in ways that are difficult to replicate artificially.
The process for natural stone outdoors or in sunny interiors is characterized by two main mechanisms:
Photooxidation: UV rays can trigger chemical reactions in the minerals of the natural stone, resulting in oxidation. For some stones, such as marble, the material often contains iron oxides, which can oxidize under UV light and cause a yellowish or brownish discoloration. This oxidation can be particularly visible on light-colored natural stones and can affect the original appearance.
Change in organic compounds: Many natural stones contain organic compounds that can be influenced by prolonged exposure to sunlight. UV radiation can break down or alter these organic materials in the stone, possibly resulting in minimal discoloration.
Stones and colors and their vulnerabilities
Marble: Marble is known for its veins and veins. However, its elegant appearance may also be sensitive to sunlight. The minerals present in marble, such as calcite and dolomite, can react under the influence of UV, which can lead to discoloration or fading of the characteristic veins.
Onyx: This (partially translucent) stone can also be susceptible to sunlight. Onyx often comes in darker tones and contrasting colors, which may fade a little when exposed to direct sunlight over time.
Quartcite: Quartzite is known for its hardness and durability, but can also be affected by intense and long-lasting UV exposure. Colored quartzites in particular can lose their deep color slightly over a long period of time.
Travertine: Travertine is another popular natural stone that can react to UV light. The beige and white varieties of travertine tend to fade or discolor easily when exposed to sunlight.
Protective measures against UV damage
There are several effective ways to protect your natural stone table from the effects of UV radiation:
Selection of location: If possible, place your natural stone table in a shady or semi-shady area and not directly next to a window. This reduces direct sunlight and thus UV exposure.
Parasols and curtains: A simple and decorative solution is to use curtains, curtains or parasols and solid canopies to protect natural stone from too much sunlight. These not only protect the stone, but also offer you pleasant shade.
UV protectants: There are also special UV protectants for natural stones that can be applied to the surface. These products form a protective layer that minimizes the effects of UV rays and therefore protects against yellowing and fading.
Regular care : Clean and polish your natural stone table regularly. Special care products such as our care set can help preserve the original color and shine of the stone.
Protective covers: If your natural stone table will not be used for a long time, especially outdoors in winter, you should use a protective cover for it. This not only protects against UV light, but also against weather influences such as rain or snow.
Natural stones are a beautiful and sustainable choice for indoor and outdoor furniture, but their durability and beauty require some care.
By taking targeted protective measures, you can ensure that your natural stone table still looks as bright and inviting as it did on the first day, even after many summers.
Enjoy the sunny days without having to worry about your valuable natural stone furniture.
We hope that this article was able to provide you with helpful information and tips to optimally protect your natural stone table.
If you have any further questions or need individual advice, we will be happy to help you.
