Yes, you can put certain types of prints or wall art outside, though durability varies significantly.
Decorating outdoor spaces with art can enhance your patio, garden, or balcony, extending your living area's aesthetic appeal. However, traditional fine art paintings are generally not designed to withstand the elements like rain, humidity, temperature fluctuations, and direct sunlight. These conditions can quickly damage materials like canvas, wood frames, and certain pigments.
Suitability of Different Art Types Outdoors
When considering putting "paintings" or art outdoors, it's crucial to distinguish between traditional art and modern outdoor-specific prints or wall art.
As the reference indicates, it is possible to decorate outdoor spaces with canvas prints. However, the reference also points out that canvas prints are not always the most durable option for outdoor use. They can be susceptible to damage from moisture and may fade over time due to UV exposure from the sun.
For wall art that requires extra durability and offers good resistance to UV-related fading and can even withstand the odd rain shower, the reference recommends choosing either metal or acrylic prints.
Here's a quick comparison:
| Art Type | Outdoor Suitability | Durability Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Canvas Prints | Possible | Can fade in sun, susceptible to moisture damage |
| Metal Prints | Recommended | Good UV and moisture resistance |
| Acrylic Prints | Recommended | Good UV and moisture resistance, durable surface |
| Traditional Paint | Generally Not | Highly vulnerable to elements (fading, cracking, mold) |
Choosing Durable Outdoor Art
If you plan to install art in an outdoor setting, selecting materials designed for exterior conditions is key to longevity. Metal and acrylic prints are manufactured to be more robust against environmental factors.
Benefits of Durable Outdoor Prints:
- UV Resistance: Helps prevent colors from fading in direct sunlight.
- Moisture Resistance: Materials like metal and acrylic are not prone to warping or deteriorating from humidity or rain.
- Durability: Can withstand minor impacts and temperature changes better than traditional materials.
While canvas prints can be used, they may require more protection or be better suited for covered outdoor areas like a porch or covered patio where they are less exposed to direct weather. For fully exposed locations, metal or acrylic options provide a much more reliable and longer-lasting solution.
In conclusion, while putting some types of prints like canvas outside is possible, choosing materials specifically recommended for outdoor durability, such as metal or acrylic prints, is advisable for the best results and longevity.
