UV energy causes direct molecular fracturing of plastic-based paints and structures. The following is a map of UV intensity of earth by European Space Agency.

While Zone 1 may be exposed to the most extreme UV intensity and high temperatures, temperature swings are relatively minor. Zone 2 experiences the strongest sun exposure and UV intensity. Zone 3 is exposed to high but not extreme UV intensity and relatively mild temperature. However, these areas must tolerate more temperature swings, which can cause paints and other materials to crack. Thus, the combined effect of moisture and UV may be even more damaging.

The ability of different types of plastic materials such as PVC (commonly known as vinyl), PET (polyester), acrylics (plexiglass), polycarbonates, wood (celluloid), or paints (mostly acrylic based) to withstand UV damage depends on their molecular structure. The molecular binding energies of the materials above are lower than UV and thus are more susceptible to degradation. Highly fluorinated plastics such as Teflon, PVDF, and their variations with higher fluorination have been proven scientifically and in practice to survive intensive UV exposure and provide protection for over 30 years. In addition, this tight molecular binding is also effective in blocking moisture, sulfur, nitric, and carbon-based acidic gases to provide additional protection.  

Painted structures, graphics, and signs that utilize vinyl or PET laminates that are embedded with UV blocking elements typically last 6-12 years on vertical surfaces and less than 6 years on horizontal surfaces.

Cedar sidings while naturally resistant to insects such as ants, termites, and mice, they must be properly maintained at all times to reach its maximum lifespan, with many planks needing to be replaced after just 10 to 15 years, and even well-maintained cedar siding may only last around 20 to 30 years in some climates. Re-siding your home can be a considerable expense, and needing to redo sections every 10 to 15 years and replace the entire facade every 20 years can be a serious drawback for many homeowners

Cedar even when properly stained and painted wood structures are highly susceptible to color degradation under rains and sun even in ZONE 3 weather. FLUOROSEAL® transparent UV protective coating from AIT with its high fluorination molecular structure have been proven to block UV, rain and moisture including salt spray to provide structural integrity and virgin wood and paint color beyond 50 years even under direct sun in ZONE 1 UV intensity and weather. 

Even with a very thin coating of 10-20 micron thick, the built-in molecular flexibility engineered to extend the life of these wooded structure and signs in cold weather with high UV intensity have been proven to provide effective protection even in extreme temperature swing in ZONE 2.