The Need for Lamination in Outdoor Stickers
At CustomStickers, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality, durable outdoor stickers to our clients. A common question we receive is whether outdoor stickers need to be laminated for added protection against the elements. In this article, we will delve into the various printing methods for stickers, the role of lamination in sticker durability, and provide guidance on choosing the right product for your needs.
The Role of Lamination in Sticker Durability
Lamination serves multiple purposes in the sticker production process. Primarily, it adds thickness and durability to the sticker, protecting it from potential damage caused by weather, chemicals, or abrasion. While not all printing methods require lamination for outdoor use, it can significantly increase the lifespan of certain types of stickers.
Screen Printed Stickers: Pros and Cons
Screen printing is a popular method for creating outdoor stickers, as it produces a thick coating of UV-cured inks that can withstand outdoor conditions for 3 to 5 years without lamination. However, screen printed stickers come with their own set of drawbacks, such as higher production costs and a limited color range.
Digital Printing Methods: A Growing Industry
In recent years, digital printing methods have advanced significantly, offering vivid colors and increased outdoor durability. Not all digital stickers are created equal, though; some require lamination, while others do not. Let's explore two common digital printing methods and their respective benefits and drawbacks.
Latex Digital Printing: Durable Inks, Poor Color Accuracy
Latex digital printing produces stickers with more durable inks that can last up to 3 years outdoors without the need for lamination. However, this method suffers from poor color accuracy in comparison to solvent and eco-solvent printing.
Solvent and Eco-Solvent Printing: Color Accuracy and Gamut
Solvent and eco-solvent printing methods offer the best color accuracy and color gamut in the industry. However, stickers produced with solvent printing typically require lamination for outdoor use.
Our Approach at CustomStickers: Eco-Solvent Printing
At CustomStickers.com, we use the eco-solvent printing method for our stickers. Our printers feature a 10-color process, as opposed to the standard 4-color CMYK process, providing the widest color range in the industry. Additionally, our lamination is rated for up to 6 years of outdoor use, ensuring our stickers offer the longest durability in the industry.
Making Informed Decisions for Your Sticker Project
When requesting quotes for sticker or decal projects, it is crucial to communicate the intended use and application of the stickers. Understanding the printing method employed, the guaranteed outdoor lifespan, and the materials used will help you make informed decisions.
If a company does not provide a guarantee, be sure to ask for one. It is essential to choose a sticker product that not only meets your needs but also maintains your company's image over time. When comparing estimates from different sticker companies, be sure to consider factors such as printing methods, materials, and guarantees to understand the underlying differences in pricing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not outdoor stickers require lamination depends on the printing method used and the desired durability. While screen printed stickers can offer outdoor durability without lamination, digital printing methods, such as eco-solvent printing, typically require lamination for prolonged outdoor use.
At CustomStickers.com, our eco-solvent printed stickers, combined with our high-quality lamination, ensure long-lasting durability and an extensive color range. By understanding the various printing methods and their respective benefits and drawbacks, you can make an informed decision when selecting the right outdoor sticker for your needs.
Always communicate your requirements with the sticker company and consider factors such as printing methods, materials, and guarantees when comparing quotes. By doing so, you can ensure that you receive a durable, high-quality outdoor sticker that meets your expectations and maintains your company's image in the long run.
