During the Coronavirus pandemic, floor decals gained mainstream recognition. Businesses, such as Walmart, hit the headlines for installing graphics to encourage physical distancing. While they are incredibly effective wayfinding signage, these signs are capable of so much more.
Floor graphics are versatile signs for businesses that unlock new avenues of advertising, branding, and wayfinding. However, not all vinyl graphics are the same. It is important to understand the types of floor decals that are offered to determine the right fit for your business.
In this blog, we’ll look at the two main materials used for printing custom floor graphics and help you decide which is the perfect choice for you.
Vinyl Floor Decals
Vinyl-based graphics are made of two layers: the base layer and the over-laminate. The base layer is the ‘foundation’ of the sheet, featuring strong adhesives on one side and the printed design on the other. The over-laminate layer is, as the name suggests, a lamination used to protect the base layer from damage.
The over-laminate enhances scuff resistance and gives the vinyl graphic a longer lifespan. Over-laminates also determine how non-slip the graphic will be and the type of finish it will have.
Companies such as 3M engineer a wide range of vinyls for floor use. For example, some options are those meant for indoor or outdoor use, those designed to handle cold weather, and slip-resistant graphics.
Foil Floor Graphics
Until not long ago, custom floor graphics were exclusively made from vinyl. However, foil-based graphics have become more prevalent in recent years. Also known as contour floor graphics, they are ideal for areas that experience heavy foot traffic and vehicular wear, such as on walkways or roads. Instead of vinyl, foil graphics use aluminum as the base to increase their longevity.
Vinyl or Foil: Which is Right for Your Floor Graphics?
If you will be installing graphics indoors, then vinyl is likely the right option for you. It hits the sweet spot of cost and durability, ensuring you will get the value you expect. Foil-based graphics are more suited for outdoor applications, such as sidewalks and tarmac. This is because foil graphics are better at handling vehicle movement and heavy foot traffic.
That said, there are other considerations, including:
- How slippery the graphic will be once wet
- What kind of finish you are looking for
- What kind of display message you want
- Will direct sunlight and artificial lighting will lead to fading
- How long you expect to use the graphic
It is advisable you speak to your signage team about the right material choice. There are many different grades of vinyl and foil graphics, and they will be able to explain your options to help you make the right decision.
Safe, Stunning Floor Graphics for Your Space
SSK Signs has helped many businesses in Mississauga and the GTA install personalized graphics. Our team takes the time to understand your space, the kind of wear and tear expected, and your budget. We work with you to create branded sign solutions and take the hassle out of signage.
Talk to us today and start designing graphics for your space.
