A well known company of blind manufacturers subjected their product to a ten-year exposure test. Pitched with other brands, the Blinds Design basswood slat had the least change of all.
The test was done using a figure of change where a ΔE figure of five or more was deemed failed. The test results were as follows:
| Mahogany Blind Designs' product |
ΔE 1.26 |
| Mahogany Competitor |
ΔE 2.36 |
| Walnut Competitor |
ΔE 5.93, Failed |
| Java Competitor |
ΔE 6.33, Failed |
| Mahogany Competitor |
ΔE 6.70, Failed |
Samples of these slats were sent to be analised and tested against a QUV light. This test accelerates weathering. The most polymer damage is caused by UVB radiation. Exposure to UVB radiation of 2000 hours equates a ten year period of normal use. Adding a 1.5 safety factor, the total amount of exposure comes to 3000 hours. Eight hour cycles were used at 45°.
Dura-Coat is a finish that will retain the blind's appearance for many years. It is durable and scratch, chemical, moisture, UV and impact resistant. The coating also allows the natural beauty of the wood to be more evident.
