HP Latex printers are a familiar sight in print shops producing wallcoverings, murals, retail graphics, canvas and soft signage. The prints are cured inside the printer and come out dry, with low odour, which makes them a natural fit for interior work in occupied spaces such as offices, hotels and schools.
This guidance is written by Landor from our experience of protecting latex prints. It is not provided or endorsed by HP, and you should follow HP’s media and curing recommendations for your specific printer.
Murals and wallcoverings
A large printed mural in a reception or corridor is one of the jobs where protection pays off most. Walls get brushed by bags and trolleys, leaned on and cleaned. Colourjet adds a layer that resists water, chemicals and abrasion, and its integrated UV inhibitors help where a wall catches daylight. Applied with a liquid lamination machine, it covers wide panels evenly without the silvering or trapped air that can occur when film laminating textured wallpaper.
For walls that will be changed regularly, such as seasonal retail schemes or rented office space, Phototex is worth considering. It works with latex printers, removes in one piece without surface damage, and can be repositioned during installation. It does not suffer from edge curl or weakened adhesive. More on our Phototex page.
Curing first, coating second
Latex ink needs correct curing to reach its intended durability. If prints feel greasy, smear when rubbed or show marks after rolling, the curing may have been insufficient for that media and ink load. A coating will not correct that and may make it worse. Get the curing right in the media profile, let the prints settle and outgas fully, and then coat.
What to test
- Media reaction. Some uncoated papers and speciality wallcoverings can react to solvent. Check the unprinted margin as well as the image.
- Seams. On multi-panel walls, coat test panels and butt them together to check the finish matches across joins.
- Paste and installation. Make sure the coated wallcovering still hangs as expected with your adhesive and method.
- Sheen. Agree the finish with the client using a coated sample, not a description.
Browse applications for examples of where coated latex prints are used.
Planning a wall or display job on an HP Latex printer? Send us a printed panel and we will check it, or call 01252 624 411 for advice on coating or Phototex.