Author: Justin Sims

Working with low-VOC Paint

by Justin Sims
Posted in Graphic Installation

How can I make sure that films will stick to walls that are painted with low-VOC paint?

According to the UASG

Many installers are grappling with a common question regarding the changing chemistry of paint, specifically the reduction of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) by paint manufacturers. This alteration in paint composition has significantly impacted the ability of graphic films to adhere to these newer paints. However, there’s no need to lose hope. True to 3M’s commitment to innovation, we’ve thoroughly examined this issue and devised a solution that is both simple and cost-effective. The key lies in the preparation of the surface and dedicating a few extra minutes to test the adhesion of the chosen films. Follow our best practices to ensure a smooth and successful application of almost any wall film on nearly any painted surface.

Preparing the Surface

Start with the 3M™ Enhanced Adhesion Cleaning Method. This method, which involves an isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and water solution and two cleaning steps, will greatly increase a film’s adhesion to a low-VOC paint.

Prepare a cleaning solution with 70 percent IPA and 30 percent water (essentially rubbing alcohol) in a spray bottle.

  • Soak a clean, lint-free cloth with the cleaning solution until it is dripping wet.
  • Clean the test (or application) area with overlapping strokes. Especially in the first cleaning, you may notice some migrated paint particles on the cloth (see photo at right).
  • Thoroughly soak another clean, lint-free cloth with the cleaning solution and wash the wall again. Researchers at 3M have found that cleaning the wall TWICE with a mixture of 70 percent IPA and 30 percent water can significantly boost adhesion for nearly any wall film applied to a painted substrate.
  • Touch the wall immediately. It will feel cooler to the touch than an unwashed area, due to the alcohol in the cleaning solution. When it no longer feels cool, it is dry and you can proceed with the film adhesion test or, if you are ready, with the film installation.
Testing Film Adhesion
  • Now prepare three strips of the same film for each of the films you plan to use for a given job. You’ll need all three so you can average the results of your test.
    • Cut three 1-inch by 10-inch strips of the graphic film(s).
    • Remove about 2 inches of liner, fold down one inch, and then punch a hole in the tab you’ve created
      (see photo at right).

NOTE: It’s important to test each wall where graphics will be installed. Because paints can easily be color matched, you may not be able to tell if one wall of a room has been painted with a different formula than the others.

  • Remove the liner and apply the test strips to the cleaned surface so the punched hole is at the top. Use the 3M™ Rivet Brush RBA-1 to go over the strips three times to ensure good adhesion.
  • After 15 minutes, remove the test strips by pulling with a spring scale attached to the film strip tab. Try to pull at a rate of 1 inch every 5 seconds and observe both the value on the scale and the smoothness with which the film releases from the wall
    (see photo below).

Here is how to assess your test results:

  • Unacceptable adhesion: The film measures less than 300 grams/inch on the scale and releases with little or no resistance.
  • Acceptable adhesion: The film measures 300-1000 grams/inch on the scale and releases smoothly and consistently with some resistance. May be removable with heat/chemicals but may cause wall damage.
  • Excellent adhesion: The film measures greater than 1000 grams/inch on the scale and releases smoothly and consistently with substantial resistance. Will cause wall damage if removed.

A film that pulls inconsistently or jerkily indicates that the adhesive is not making full contact with the substrate, even if it measures in the acceptable to excellent range. We do not recommend using a film that exhibits jerky removal.

Feed Your Advertising!

by Justin Sims
Posted in Graphic Installation

The rise of the food truck industry is happening at a frantic pace. Branding and re-branding has become a major business for Installed Graphics, Inc. Here are several things that have contributed to it:

Affordability: Food trucks offer freshly prepared food at lower prices than traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants. This affordability makes them attractive to a broad range of customers.

Flexibility: Food trucks can quickly adapt to changing trends and consumer preferences. They can be wrapped and re-wrapped to fit today’s trends.

Accessibility: Food trucks can go to where the customers are, and with auxilary signage, can make their presence known immediately.

Social Media and Technology: The advent of social media has played a significant role in the success of food trucks. Many trucks use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to announce their locations, share daily specials, and engage with their customers. That’s why a freshly wrapped food truck has such social media appeal!

Low Overheads: Operating a food truck typically involves lower overhead costs than running a traditional restaurant. Also, it is a traveling adverstisement. There’s no need for expensive real estate, dining space, or extensive staffing. This allows food truck owners to invest more in quality ingredients and maintain competitive pricing, while presenting a professionally wrapped vehicle that advertises itself.

Popularity at Events: Food trucks are often invited to participate in events, festivals, and markets, further increasing their visibility and customer reach.

The rise of the food truck industry is a testament to the evolving preferences of consumers, and the entrereneurial spirt of their owners. Installed Graphics, Inc. is excited to be involved with this industry at such a dynamic time.

Guiding the Way: Experiential Signage and the Journey to Unforgettable Customer Experiences

by Justin Sims
Posted in Uncategorized

Guiding the Way: Experiential Signage and the Journey to Unforgettable Customer Experiences

In the dynamic landscape of customer engagement, businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to leave a lasting impression. One often overlooked but powerful tool in creating unforgettable customer experiences is experiential signage. Beyond its traditional role of providing directions or information, signage has evolved into a key player in shaping the overall customer journey. In this blog post, we’ll explore the concept of experiential signage and how it can pave the way to unforgettable customer experiences.

  1. The Rise of Experiential Signage:
    Traditional signage serves a functional purpose, but experiential signage takes it a step further by engaging customers on a more emotional and sensory level. Explore the evolution of signage from a mere informational tool to a dynamic element that contributes to the ambiance and personality of a brand.
  2. Creating a Seamless Customer Journey:
    Experiential signage acts as a guide, leading customers through a seamless and intuitive journey. Discuss the importance of well-designed wayfinding systems that not only provide directions but also enhance the overall customer experience. Illustrate with real-life examples of businesses that have successfully implemented such systems.
  3. Branding Beyond the Logo:
    Signage is a visual representation of a brand, and experiential signage goes beyond displaying logos. Dive into the ways businesses use signage to reinforce brand identity, tell a story, and create a memorable connection with customers. Highlight the role of color, typography, and design in building a cohesive brand experience.
  4. Interactive Signage: Engaging the Senses:
    Explore the world of interactive signage that stimulates multiple senses. Discuss the impact of touch, sound, and even scent incorporated into signage to create a more immersive environment. Share examples of businesses using technology to enhance customer engagement through interactive signage.
  5. Adapting to Changing Environments:
    In a world where flexibility is key, discuss the adaptability of experiential signage to different environments and situations. Whether it’s a physical store, event space, or a virtual setting, effective signage should be versatile and capable of enhancing the customer experience across various platforms.
  6. Measuring Success: Metrics for Experiential Signage:
    How do businesses measure the success of their experiential signage efforts? Explore key performance indicators (KPIs) and analytics tools that can help businesses assess the impact of signage on customer satisfaction, brand perception, and overall engagement.
  7. Case Studies: Exemplifying Excellence:
    Showcase case studies of businesses that have successfully leveraged experiential signage to create unforgettable customer experiences. Analyze the strategies employed, the challenges faced, and the results achieved, providing readers with tangible examples to draw inspiration from.

How does wrapping a vehicle enhance your company’s image?

by Justin Sims
Posted in Uncategorized

How does wrapping a vehicle enhance your company’s image?

Wrapping a vehicle with your company’s branding and messaging is an effective way to enhance your company’s image and promote your brand. Success depends on various factors, including your industry, target audience, and the quality of the design and execution.

Here are some considerations:

  1. Brand Recognition: A well-designed vehicle wrap makes your brand more recognizable. When people see your wrapped vehicle on the road, they are more likely to remember your company’s name, logo, and message.
  2. Professionalism: A professionally wrapped vehicle conveys a sense of professionalism and legitimacy. It shows your company is serious about its branding and image.
  3. Mobile Advertising: Vehicle wraps serve as mobile advertisements. Your message is constantly on the move, potentially reaching a broader audience than traditional advertising methods.
  4. Local Marketing: If your business operates in a specific geographic area, a wrapped vehicle  serves as a localized marketing tool, especially if your service involves traveling to customer locations.
  5. Competitive Advantage: A well-designed wrap helps you stand out from the competition and create a memorable impression on potential customers.
  6. Consistency: Vehicle wraps should align with your overall branding and marketing strategy to maintain consistency in how your company is perceived.

It’s imperative your design is well thought out and professional. A poorly executed wrap can have a negative impact on your company’s image. Additionally, consider the cost, maintenance, and potential wear and tear on the vehicle.

What are the differences between the Industry standard 3M IJ180 and the new 3M IJ280?

by Justin Sims
Posted in Graphic Installation

3M™ IJ180 vs 3M™ IJ280 Vinyl

Installed Graphics compares the two for you in one simple page.

 
Durability:
  • 3M™ IJ180: Is a durable, cast vinyl film designed for long-term outdoor use. It has a lifespan of up to 10 years and is known for its resistance to UV radiation and tough weather conditions. It's has been a reliable choice for vehicle wraps and outdoor graphics for many years.
  • 3M™ IJ280: IJ280 is another cast vinyl film from 3M, but it is generally considered to be less durable compared to IJ180. It's designed for medium-term applications and typically has a lifespan of around 5-7 years. While it's still a good choice for outdoor use, it may not be as long-lasting as IJ180.
Conformability:
  • 3M™ IJ180: Is known for its excellent conformability, making it a preferred choice for wrapping vehicles and applying graphics to complex curves and contours. It can stretch and conform to irregular surfaces with ease.
  • 3M™ IJ280: Offers good conformability, it may not be as flexible as IJ180. It's more suitable for flat or slightly curved surfaces.  IJ280 tends to conform better at room temperature.
Adhesive:
  • Both films come with 3M's proprietary Controltac™ and Comply™ adhesive technologies, which help with ease of application and bubble-free installation. They allow for repositioning during application, which is especially important for large-scale graphics.
Finish Options:
  • Both IJ180 and IJ280 are available in a variety of finishes, including gloss, matte, and satin, to suit different design preferences.
Compatibility: 
  • Both vinyl films are compatible with solvent, latex, and UV-curable ink systems, making them versatile choices for various printing methods.
Cost:
  • 3M™ IJ180 is generally considered a premium product, and it tends to be more expensive than IJ280. The choice between the two may depend on your specific project requirements and budget constraints.
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