In this post, we’ll discuss outdoor labels, laminated labels and waterproof labels. When a company needs to create labels for outdoor use specifically, a number of materials can be used for this purpose.
If indeed, the labels will be exposed to any of the elements, they need to either be waterproof, or need to have a varnish, a lamination, or the labels themselves need to be made of a material that can withstand any of the elements, such as vinyl. Vinyl material is used because it is a very versatile material, ideal for outdoor use. It does not crack or peel and shrinks and expands as the weather affects it. Consider aluminum labels for outdoor applications as well.
Sunscreen Laminated Labels
Still though, if long-lasting labels are needed outdoors in the sunshine long-term, they should be protected by a sunscreen lamination so that they can last outdoors for years. Sunscreen laminated labels have protection against UV rays, just like sunscreen that you would apply to your own skin. This specialized sunscreen lamination can raise the cost of the labels, but there are other options.
Color Choice
Varnish Or Lamination
Waterproof Labels
It is always advisable to speak with your label order representative to discuss the specific use of outdoor labels. For instance, if waterproof labels are needed to be submerged in water, such as applied to a boat, special adhesives would need to be administered in order for the label to last long term.
Waterproof labels are not just for boats though. Laminated labels might be required to be applied to outdoor surfaces such as walls, poles, or windows. Having labels that are waterproof will allow them to stand up to long-term harsh weather conditions.
Specific Label Use
Regardless of the use, it’s always suggested to discuss exactly what the labels will be used for so that your representative can determine the best materials, laminations and adhesives to use on a specific label.
Hard hat labels, and labels that will be used for construction or other heavy duty applications including labels with OSHA, IMDG, ADR, ANSI, HIN, NFPA, NPR designations need to be doubly durable. Labels for industrial use are often exposed to harsh environmental conditions and must stand up to corrosive chemicals and solvents.
Tire Adhesive
These types of labels sometimes require special tire adhesive in order to remain on the surface. They need to resist chemicals and abrasions, and not only do they have to function, but also provide important information in cases of safety labels or warning labels. They can often save lives. For these reasons, it’s crucial to discuss in detail what each label will be used for, where it will be applied, and specific temperatures it might be exposed to.
By knowing all of this information, we can clearly designate the specific materials, inks and adhesives needed, so that everything flows smoothly throughout the order process and the life of the label.
Extra-strength adhesive is becoming more needed nowadays because extreme weather conditions are increasing, due to global warming. This label adhesive will make sure labels stay adhered to the surface even in those extreme weather conditions.
Application Surface
The application surface is important because that will determine how the label will be applied and how long it will last on that particular surface. Not only knowing whether or not they are to be waterproof labels, it’s also important to know whether the area is a smooth surface like steel or a textured surface, a powder-coated finish, whether the surface is high or low surface energy all figures into this.
Bottom line, as with anything in life, communication is the key. the more information you can relate to your label vendor, the more successful your outdoor labels will be at lasting for years.
