ᐅ What can be done to prevent fading on the sides of the KALLAX unit placed under a window?

Hello everyone,

I have a KALLAX shelf from IKEA placed directly under a window at home. Unfortunately, I keep noticing that the back and the surfaces of the sides are fading, probably due to sunlight exposure. The KALLAX is not painted but rather has a melamine coating, which is sensitive to UV light.

Therefore, I’m concerned about how to effectively and permanently prevent the sides of the KALLAX shelf from fading when placed directly under a window. Does anyone know of proven solutions, such as protective films, special coatings, or other measures that protect the material from UV rays without significantly altering its appearance?

Thanks for your tips and experiences!

Basically, melamine coatings are very susceptible to UV radiation, which causes color changes. A simple but effective solution is to apply UV-protection films directly onto the window surface. These films filter out the UV rays and thus reduce fading.

Alternatively, paint protection coatings or sealants can be used, but compatibility with melamine must be checked first (paints often do not adhere well to melamine-coated surfaces because of poor surface bonding).

In summary: 1) apply UV-protection film to the window, 2) optionally use blinds or curtains as additional protection, 3) conduct a compatibility test before applying adhesive films or paints.

I can add to Lorukeo’s points and offer a slightly more detailed approach:

1. Window films with UV protection: Look for films that block at least 99% of UV rays. These are available at hardware stores or online and are quite affordable. They still allow plenty of light through but significantly reduce sun damage.

2. Furniture care products: There are special UV-protective oils or waxes (especially for wood) that can sometimes help with sealed surfaces. However, these are not really effective for melamine.

3. Blinds / curtains: The simplest solution for temporarily darkening windows when the sun is strongest.

4. Edges and corners can be additionally protected with removable films or protective tapes (which can also be peeled off).

Conclusion: The best long-term protection is reducing the UV exposure on the furniture. Window films or darkening elements are usually the most practical methods.

LOGEMIN schrieb:
Window films with UV protection

I agree with that, honestly. 😊 My mother had the same issue with her KALLAX under the window and installed a UV protection film on the window. Since then, there's been hardly any fading.

Adding a light sunshade in the form of curtains also helps, and the piece of furniture maintains its appearance longer. And hey, sometimes you don’t have to repaint or cover everything up—that’s better for the indoor climate too.😉

In short: From my point of view, UV protection films are the best choice because they address the problem at its source.

All attempts to treat the KALLAX surface directly usually fail due to the smooth melamine coating, which hardly provides any adhesion and does not last over time.

What could still be considered are special polyurethane-based coatings suitable for melamine, but this is labor-intensive and the outcome is uncertain.

Window films or blinds are much more practical in this case.

I would like to add a comment regarding possible paint coatings:

Many paints, especially those with UV protection, do not adhere reliably to melamine because the surface is extremely smooth and chemically inert. A primer specifically designed for melamine would be necessary.

In addition, painting often changes the texture and appearance, which is not always desirable.

Therefore, I would prioritize a combination of UV protection film on the window and mechanical protection (e.g., curtains).

As a last resort, furniture can also be covered with textiles if direct sunlight exposure is unavoidable.