Lamination
What is Laminate/Lamination?
Laminate is a film coating applied on top of media, and lamination is the process of bonding this film onto printed material. The primary use of lamination is to protect the graphic from wear, tear, weathering and UV rays. SpeedPro generally uses a cold lamination film process and we have many types of laminates to choose from. These include matte, high gloss, or liquid laminates which we recommend depending on the specifications of the project or application.
Specific types and reasons to use lamination:
Overlaminate, or textured laminates, add a visceral tactile quality to the top layer of the object or sign receiving the laminate treatment. For example, if a sports logo is being laminated the texture of the ball, such as a basketball, football or laces of a baseball, they can be included in the sign design. In general, it is a good idea to use textured overlaminate treatments for any floor decal to decrease the likelihood of slippage. Adding texture to wall signs helps the image pop even more and passersby who are inspired to touch the sign will likely remember the product more vividly due to the addition of the extra sense memory.
Liquid laminates are recommended for use on certain applications such as wall coverings, elevator wraps, decals and vehicle wraps. Liquid laminates and overlaminate also generally add a layer of UV protection which helps signs remain vibrant and legible for longer periods when exposed to direct sunlight.
Matte finish lamination adds a film adhesive via heat-activation to add further protection for banners and retail signage. Matte finish lamination is also popular on glass graphical displays as it cuts back on the inherent shine or glare from light reflected on the windows by creating a flatter surface as opposed to a glossy finish. Matte is generally recommended as a laminate finish for all signs where visibility is a priority, as matte finish reflects very little light, giving the surface a subtle look with almost no sheen. Additionally, extra matte protection ensures that the laminated product isn’t harmed by UV rays, rain, ice or other elements. Of course, if you aren’t worried about shine, high-gloss, glossy or semi-gloss laminate options are available. No matter which you choose, SpeedPro has you covered.
Polycarbonate lamination is also a type of lamination used in producing graphics, signs and other products. This type of film is very durable, making it a great option for trade show graphics, but you can also find this material in extra resilient spaces like countertops, and even dumpsters.
What kind of signs benefit from lamination?
All sign materials which may be used outdoors such as flags, banners, mesh, vinyl decals, poster paper, wraps, PVC foam board, Alumalite, gatorboard, ultraboard and more benefit from the preserving qualities of lamination. We especially recommend using laminate on products that are permanently outside or exposed to the elements such as directional signs, door wraps, decals, floor decals, outdoor wall murals and exterior window graphics.
Does lamination affect color?
Glossy finish lamination generally makes prints appear more vibrant. Matte and Satin finishes help prevent unwanted glare which is important for trade show exhibits or backdrops being filmed for television or still cameras but does not enhance the natural color.
How can SpeedPro help you with lamination?
SpeedPro offers lamination as an option for most printing jobs. SpeedPro can also provide mural lamination treatments to walls, protecting custom images from scratches, stains, wear, tear, and discoloration. Additional types of lamination available include dry Erase laminates, that turn any sign into a dry erase board which is great for restaurant menu boards, interactive business presentations and event leaderboards. In urban areas, we recommend our anti-graffiti laminates that provide excellent resistance to chemicals and solvents. If your signs have been targeted by vandals, consider a coat of anti-graffiti laminate to allow for easy removal of graffiti.
Anti-skid lamination is highly recommended for any graphics or decals on floors. Be sure to protect your customers from slips and falls with anti-skid lamination. In fact, one of the best things you can do to ensure your floor logo decals holds up over time and provides a safe surface to play on is to apply laminates to them. Appropriate matte masks and laminates protect decals against people running across them and any liquids that come into contact with them, like water or sweat. Choosing slip-resistant and skid-resistant laminates for safety should be your top priority. Select a skid-resistant laminate to make sure people passing by don’t slip on your vinyl floor decal.
Pick the strongest adhesive and extra matte protection for floor decals to protect against ice, rain and UV rays, and by using an extra-strong adhesive you avoid the graphic being moved from its location by any external forces.
No matter what size sign you require, SpeedPro helps you create weather-resistant, eye-catching outdoor signage that is tough enough to provide vivid imaging for years to come. Laminated door decals give a glossy finish that helps protect the decals from the elements and looks great. From blistering sun, to pelting rain, to frigid ice and snow, lamination helps extend the lifespan of door decals and keeps them looking their best through every season of inclement weather.
SpeedPro Affinity Solutions
The southwestern coast of Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, exciting cultural activities and stunning architecture. As a business owner, you know standing out from the crowd in this growing area will bring in more business and expand your bottom line. However, that can feel like a challenge if you recently launched your company or face greater competition. You need someone to help you separate yourself from the crowd.
The experts at SpeedPro are up for the job. We have assisted many businesses just like yours with wide-format printing to garner more attention and communicate effectively with potential customers. Our sign company can outfit your retail shop with indoor and outdoor signage designed to draw people into your location and steer them through the store. We can fit your delivery vans with full, partial or decal vehicle wraps. We can even equip breweries with window graphics or decals or stadiums with step and repeat banners.
We Have the Large-Format Printing You Need
SpeedPro Affinity Solutions can do all this and more. Our many products include:
- Floor graphics
- Wall graphics
- Full, partial or decal fleet wraps
- Flags
- Environmental graphics
- And more
Why Choose SpeedPro Affinity Solutions?
- Speed: Need a quick turnaround or fast prepress? We can meet your internal deadlines.
- Efficient surveying: We use digital measurements to ensure the graphic will fit perfectly.
- Range of expertise: We have worked with clients across dozens of industries, including banking and finance, manufacturing, gyms and more.
- Creativity: Our team uses fresh, dynamic thinking to find the solutions you need. We love meeting your challenge.
Contact SpeedPro Affinity Solutions Today
Whether your business is located in Sarasota, Fort Myers or Bradenton, SpeedPro Affinity Solutions can bring your message to life. You can trust us for all your large-format printing needs. Reach out to set up a consultation with us or request a quote on your latest project, no matter how big or small. Get in touch with SpeedPro Affinity Solutions today.