Sign makers rarely get to choose where their work ends up. A fascia might face south over a busy road; a site board might sit in mud for months; a set of safety signs might be pressure-washed weekly. Your reputation depends on how those jobs look long after installation, which is why finishing is as important as printing.
Liquid lamination in a sign shop
Film lamination is familiar to most sign makers, but liquid lamination has some practical advantages. It can be applied to large and irregular work, it suits rigid and flexible substrates, and there is no film to trim or edges to lift. Landor Liquid Lamination adds a protective layer for durability and lightfastness, and Colourjet, the solvent coating, protects against water, chemicals and abrasion with integrated UV inhibitors against premature fading.
It is used on signage and branding indoors and outdoors, printed on latex, UV and eco-solvent machines.
Equipment for regular coating
- Liquid lamination machines apply coating evenly across the full width of the print, giving consistent results job after job.
- The Kala Applikator flatbed laminator gives sign shops a flatbed option alongside liquid coating.
- ClearJet aerosols in gloss and semi-gloss are useful for small pieces, edges and repairs.
See the full equipment range for details.
Test before you quote
Sign substrates vary enormously, from composite panels and foamex to banner PVC and vehicle-grade vinyls. Solvent coatings do not suit every substrate or ink. Before quoting a coated job on a new material, coat an offcut printed with the same ink, then check adhesion, flexibility and appearance. The compatibility page has more guidance.
Talking to customers about durability
Customers often ask how long a sign will last. Honest answers depend on orientation, climate, substrate and maintenance, so we do not suggest quoting fixed lifespans. It is accurate to say that a coated sign is better protected against fading, moisture and abrasion than an uncoated one, and that it should keep its colour for longer.
Interior work without installers
For interior graphics, Phototex printable self-adhesive fabric opens up jobs where clients want to fit graphics themselves. It is easy to install, can be repositioned and reused, and removes in one piece without surface damage.
Thinking of bringing coating in-house? Our team has over 20 years’ experience with large format systems; call 01252 624 411 to discuss your workflow.