Unfortunately all wraps and paints fade over time in the sun. Some of the earlier Pyralin wraps of White Marine Pearl and Oyster pearl tended to turn a yellowish color. The best bet is to keep them out of the sun and covered if possible, that will also protect from dust etc. BTW, smoke will also turn the colors to a yellowish tint or other shades of colors. Some vintage collectors like mellowing of the color over time.

Thanks!Just was not sure about the Paint,Lacquer?

Duco (short for Dupont Color) brand nitrocellulose lacquer will definitely fade in direct sunlight, but it's a more subtle effect than what happens to pyralin wraps.

My drum room and a few other rooms in our house have had a clear tint installed on the windows that block 99% of UV from the sun and you cannot even tell it is on the window . Keeps the heat out too I am so happy I did this years ago and would recommend it highly .

I would tend to think the finish might crack more with sunlight also.

Wayne

I realize the question involves sunlight's fading effects on drums, but after reading Drum69's reply I believe sun light (UV) is only partially to blame. The atmosphere deserves an honorable mention here too. Especially if you live in a highly populated area with many vehicles. I lived and grew up in a suburb of Los Angeles, the effects of gases such as Ozone and the various Nitrous Oxides contained in smog add significantly to damage to your finishes as well as anything rubber and/or petroleum based... including drum heads. I can't speak to fading per se, but I can tell you it is amazing how smog can damage (rot) the most inert things. If you protect your drums from sunlight (UV) and find damage, it may be the air. In my case I've owned the same set since 1965 and as I have moved and played in different states and regions of the country, I can attest to how my drum maintenance has varied...polishing requirements...head replacements...cracked rubber/plastic fittings, etc.

Liquid Turtlewax is great for blocking UV rays on cars, it works well on drums too.

Wow!I must say this has given me many things to ponder.I have shades that provide 85 per cent UVA blockage.That should slow down any fade by quite a bit.I guess however I will just keep them in the "drum room"which is 100 per cent dark except for when I am in there and turn on the lights.I have just run out of room and was hoping to display in another room.Guess that's how it is!Thanks to all.We definitely have some smart people in this forum.Bowing

I also use the UV film on the window in my drum room, as well as keeping the shade drawn. Why take the risk of speeding up fading.