Sunlight and UV cause ink and substrate to fade and sometimes brittle. No print is permanent outdoors; the goal is to match the product to the expected lifespan and accept gradual fade.
What UV does
UV breaks down dyes and pigments and can weaken vinyl and laminate. Direct sun accelerates this. Shaded or north-facing installs last longer. Red and other saturated colors often fade first.
Slowing fade
UV-resistant inks and laminates extend life. So does choosing outdoor-rated substrate. You cannot stop fade entirely; you can choose materials that meet a reasonable lifespan for the location.
Expectations
• Specify expected lifespan (e.g. 1 year, 3 years) and install location.
• Use UV-rated ink and laminate for outdoor; ask the printer what they use.
• Accept that colors will shift over time; avoid "exact match forever" expectations.
Common mistake
Expecting indoor-rated or uncoated print to last years in full sun. It will fade and may delaminate. Match the product to the environment.