When you go out in the sun you often protect your skin with some sort of UV-blocking sunscreen. It may surprise you to know that your flooring might require protection from UV rays as well. That's right, certain types of flooring can become damaged or discolored when exposed to sunlight for long periods of time. But don't worry! There are steps you can take to reduce the risk of this happening to your floors.

For laminate flooring, make sure to look for laminate that comes with a surface wear layer called UV protection. This can help minimize sunlight damage. If your laminate floor does not come with this protection, it can fade and discolor after significant exposure to sunlight.

Hardwood floors are especially known for discoloration as a result of sun exposure. Some woods will lighten while others will darken in color. This can make your floors look old and worn.

If there is only a small area of your floor exposed to sunlight, consider purchasing an area rug to cover the exposed surface. Be wary though, if the area rug does not cover all of the exposed area your floor is likely to discolor around the rug, leaving you with a two-toned floor. If this happens, remove the rug. The floor's color should eventually even out. Also, avoid purchasing mats and rugs with rubber backings, as the rubber can stain hardwood.

A smart way to protect any flooring in your home is to install blinds or shades that block the light. You can also have your windows coated with a UV-reducing window film. A little prevention can go a long way in helping to maintain the beautiful appearance of your flooring!