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Outdoor Applications require Solvent Inks
We Use "Tried and True" Solvent-Based Technology
All our vinyl banners are output on heavy duty digital printing machines using
true solvent inks. Some of our competitors try to get away with less durable
inks run on cheaper equipment. If they don't specifically say they are using
"solvent inks", then chances are they are not. They are probably using a
water soluble, dye-based ink, or possibly a "solvent-light" product.
Why don't they use the real thing? Because they don't have enough volume to
justify the expensive solvent-based equipment, and therefore try to use the same
equipment used for indoor products like posters and display prints.
The problem with non-solvent inks is that they are not
UV-resistant enough to last very long in bright sunlight, and they are not
sufficiently weatherproof to withstand outdoor conditions.
UV-resistance is a very big problem. If you have ever noticed how
your carpet or car upholstery fades in areas exposed to the sun, you know
how serious this can be. Pigmented inks -- the kind used for indoor printing
where bright sunlight is not a factor -- will fade rapidly if exposed to the
sun.
One method commonly used to fight UV fading is to use a so-called
"UV laminate" coating. This involves laminating the surface with a clear coating
that filters some of the UV rays out before hitting the vulnerable pigments.
This is not practical when it comes to vinyl banners. We know this is the case
because we have experimented with every possible alternative process. In spite
of the claims that non-solvent output is durable, UV-resistant, and
weatherproof, we have found this is SIMPLY NOT TRUE. The printed images scratch
more easily and fade much more rapidly in bright sunlight.
If you want a vinyl banner or vinyl sign for exposure to the
elements (outdoors, or in windows), and you want it to last longer than a few
weeks, then make sure you buy from someone who uses true solvent inks --
NOT solvent replacements, solvent lite, or sort-of-solvent, and certainly not
dye-based or pigment-based inks. |
