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 Boston Metrowest
Boston has an energy and excitement all its own as one of the country’s largest and most influential cities. Whether your business is located in Boston, Needham, Newton or Cambridge, you need high-impact graphics to draw attention to your services and show people your capabilities. Getting a spark of interest can lead to new relationships that become steady business.
Boston-area businesses have many signage needs we can address. We begin by having a one-on-one consultation with our new clients to gauge your needs and see how we can engage your target audience. We work closely together from project conception to delivery to achieve your vision. See what SpeedPro Boston Metrowest can do for your business.
Find Outstanding Large-Format Printing in Boston
Have you ever seen an elevator wrap and immediately felt drawn into the product’s story? We provide eye-catching graphics like this that tell people more about your business and why they should choose you. When you partner with SpeedPro Boston Metrowest, you can choose from so many creative and unique approaches.
Why You Should Select SpeedPro Boston Metrowest
Our teams create longstanding relationships with people who trust us to get the job done right. Clients return to us again and again because they love the work we do. We create high-quality graphics, and you benefit from displaying them. Other advantages of partnering with us include:
- Quick turnarounds: We can finish your project fast to meet your internal deadlines.
- Green techniques: We employ quick-dry printing processes and rely on latex inks.
- Innovation: We embrace state-of-the-art technology to make your project more efficient.
- Communication: We keep in touch through every step along the project pipeline.
Get in Touch With SpeedPro Boston Metrowest
From full, partial or decal vehicle wraps that draw the eye to outdoor and indoor signage that directs people, our graphics make your business look good. Businesses in the Boston, Newton and Cambridge areas can contact us today to get a quote or request a consultation.