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Working with low-VOC Paint

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!

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

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?

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?

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.

Large Format Printing Guide For Letter Visibility & Distance

Large Format Printing Guide For Letter Visibility & Distance

Large format graphics will not help your business if the letters on the sign cannot be viewed by your audience. Large format printing can ensure that the desired marketing message of your wide format printing banners or signs is the largest and easiest to read aspect of the sign or banner. As a rule, the letters on the large format graphics need to be printed in a size that provides ease of reading by the intended audience. Large format printing makes sure the letters are easy to read whether the sign or banner is being viewed up close or at a distance. In general, letters on wide format printing materials should be approximately one inch tall per ten feet of viewing distance.

Large Format Graphics & Signage Factors

Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind for signage with large format graphics:

  • The letters should have a good amount of thickness as thinner letters are often harder to read. In addition, a simple bold font on large format printing can make the letters stand out.
  • White space is the open area that surrounds the copy. In general, the copy should be around 40% of the sign while the remaining 60% should be white space. The open white space on the wide format printing gives the words “room to breathe” and makes the copy easier to read and stand out on the sign.
  • Kerning is the space that is located between the letters. Take care with the spacing of the letters to make sure they are not too close together or too hard to read.

Letter Size Formula For Large & Wide Format Printing

When it comes to determining the perfect size for letters, there is actually a letter-size formula for large and wide format printing that helps determine the ideal size of the letters. The letter size formula for the letter height is:

The Letter Height (in inches) x 10 (for readable distance for maximum impact) = The Maximum Readable Distance

It’s said that, for every one inch of letter height, the letters provide 10 feet of readability.

For example, letters that are 3 inches tall make a maximum impact when they are 30 feet away. However, the letters can still be seen and read from up to 100 feet away.

Installed Graphics Large Format Printing Installation Services

Installed Graphics large format printing installation services ensure the letters on your banner or signs are installed for maximum visibility. Wide-format printing makes a big impact on consumers but you want to make sure that the impact that is made is a positive one where your target audience is able to easily view and read the copy on the printed materials. Letters that are too small or too close together will not deliver the desired marketing message and will not properly brand your business thanks to the confusing letters on the large format graphics.

Learn more about large format printing for letter visibility and distance when you contact our team today.

Call Us for More Information at 314-872-3100

OR

    Why Is Color Contrast Important On Automotive Wraps?

    Why Is Color Contrast Important On Automotive Wraps?

    Automotive wraps brand a business as other drivers on the road view the graphics on the vehicle wraps on a daily basis. When it comes to designing commercial vehicle wraps, colors play a big part in the design process and this includes taking color contrast into account. Design elements such as color contrast help to differentiate key information such as the name of the business or any contact info. However, combining such elements as red lettering on black vehicles can make the intended message hard to read instead of standing out against the color of the automotive wraps. High contrast colors enable a message to “jump out” at viewers and make a big impact. Colors that are too close to each other in their tone can make the marketing message hard to read or hard to process by other drivers.

    Color Factors In Vehicle Wraps

    It is vital to keep color factors in mind when designing vehicle wraps. Your design needs to consider how the two colors contrast with each other as the LR (light reflectance) of the colors sets the contrast.

    Some of the top contrasting color combinations include:

    • White on Black
    • Black on White
    • Black on Yellow
    • Yellow on Black
    • Blue on White

    The color of automotive wraps can create a feeling of trust as well as make a company seem bold and imaginative. Research has shown that up to 90% of snap judgments that are made about products are based on color alone (this statistic depends on the product). Plus, consumers make judgments based on what they “see” as appropriate colors for the brand.

    In other words, color contrast plays a big part in the design of commercial vehicle wraps.

    Commercial Vehicle Wraps Installation

    The installation of commercial vehicle wraps gives a professional look to the fleet vehicles that have automotive wraps placed on them. Professional installation of vehicle wraps takes the entire vehicle into account to make sure the graphics do not have any air bubbles in them as well as making sure the message of the commercial wraps is not interrupted by door handles or side mirrors on the vehicle. Vehicle wraps are a big investment that need to be properly installed to maintain a professional look over the life of the vehicle.

    Discover the best color contrast options for your fleet vehicles by contacting our design team today.

    Call Us for More Information at 314-872-3100

    OR

      What’s The Difference Between Half and Full Vehicle Wraps?

      What’s The Difference Between Half and Full Vehicle Wraps?

      Vehicle wraps brand a business whenever a company vehicle is on the road or parked in the company parking lot thanks to the combination of graphics and text that market the business. Fleet wraps can cover half of a vehicle or it can cover the entire company vehicle. A half wrap only covers certain parts of the vehicle such as the entire back part of the vehicle and (maybe) under the windows of the doors. On the other hand, full vehicle wraps cover the entire surface of the vehicle and runs from the back of the vehicle all the way up the hood of the vehicle. The wrap installation process is the same for half or full vehicle wraps. The final decision of what type of vehicle wrap to install is determined by the needs of the business.

      Fleet Wraps From Partial Wraps to Full Wraps

      Fleet wraps are available in partial wraps and full wraps as seen below:

      • Partial wraps only cover a certain part of the vehicle. Businesses often wrap the back area of the vehicle because it is easily viewed by people that are behind the vehicle in traffic. The design usually starts around the front tires and goes all the way to the back of the vehicle while keeping the graphics located below the line of the windows.
      • Full wraps cover the entire vehicle. A full vehicle wrap is exactly what it sounds like since they cover the whole vehicle including the hood, windows, roof and any area of the vehicle that can be seen from a standing point of view by a consumer. The larger display area allows designers to include more info without making it seem too crowded or “information-heavy”.

      Professional Wrap Installation Services

      Professional wrap installation services ensure that vehicle wraps are professionally installed on vehicles of all sizes. Wrap installation services makes sure the vehicles are professionally cleaned and free of dirt and debris before the fleet wraps are installed on the vehicle. In addition, wrap installation services keep the full wrap or half wrap free of bubbles or wrinkles while also making sure the wrap does not go over the car handles or side mirrors on the vehicle. When done properly, professional wrap installation services help vehicle wraps last for years while maintaining their eye-catching appearance.

      Not sure if you need a full wrap or a partial wrap? Contact our experienced vehicle wrap team today about installing fleet wraps on your company vehicles.

      Call Us for More Information at 314-872-3100

      OR

        What Types Of Services Does Large Format Printing Provide?

        What Types Of Services Does Large Format Printing Provide?

        Large format printing is growing in popularity for businesses of all sizes thanks to its ability to print large materials filled with eye-catching graphics. Large format print projects require the use of specialized print equipment to create posters, banners, trade show displays and other large format printing products. Large format printing accommodates rolls of paper that are larger than the paper used by normal printers. Materials created using large format print increase brand awareness, promote the products or services businesses want to spotlight to consumers or promote a trade show or other special event. Large format print projects can be printed using almost any material including glass, wood, vinyl, metal, corrugated plastic and cloth. The results are eye-catching, durable products that allow your branding message to stand out to the public.

        Large Format Print Products

        Popular large format print products include:

        • Banners that share information about your company and attract people to visit your business
        • Trade show displays that catch the attention of those attending the show because you will be competing for attention with other trade show vendors
        • Wall murals can promote your business while also sharing your company history or setting the tone for your company culture
        • Event signage shows people where to go when they arrive at the event as well as shares information about the event and its vendors
        • Point of purchase displays spotlight the particular products you are trying to sell to customers and shares information about the product
        • Floor graphics direct people through the store and they increase foot traffic to certain areas or products you are showcasing
        • Posters and yard signs, of all shapes and sizes, market your business and build brand awareness through repeated viewing

        Graphic Installation Services

        Graphic installation services are the final step in the large format printing process. Graphic installation services make sure your large format print projects are professionally installed to withstand any type of weather conditions. In addition, graphic installation services take the sight lines of a building or event into account to ensure your marketing message is easily viewed by anyone that is attending an event or visiting your store or business. Graphic installation services give your large format printing products a professional look that is free of wrinkles and bumps while securely staying in place for the lifetime of the signage.

        Put large format printing to work for your business by contacting our experienced design and installation team today.

        Call Us for More Information at 314-872-3100

        OR

          Why Weather Affects The Time For Vehicle Wrap Installation?

          Why Weather Affects The Time For Vehicle Wrap Installation?

          A vehicle wrap is a dynamic marketing tool that allows companies to market their business 24 hours a day thanks to high-quality graphics that are placed on the vehicle. Experts in placing car wraps agree the best temperatures to successfully install fleet wraps are between 60 and 80 degrees. The vinyl wrap film will adapt to the temperature of the workspace and it can become too stiff or too soft if the temperature is too hot or too cold. A professional vehicle wrap company will install car wraps in a facility that is dry and temperature controlled. By controlling the temperature of the workspace, the company is able to ensure that the fleet wraps are installed in the perfect conditions for high quality, long-lasting vehicle wrap.

          How Vehicle Surface Temperature Matters With Car Wraps

          Just like the three bears and their bowls of porridge, it matters if the surface temperature of the vehicle is too hot or too cold when it comes to installing a car wrap:

          • If the vinyl wrap material, as well as the vehicle and workspace, are too cold, the wrap vinyl will become stiff and difficult to properly conform to the shape of the vehicle. It can also have an impact on how the self-adhesive vinyl is able to bond and adhere to the curves and surface of the vehicle.
          • If the workspace and vinyl are too hot, the vinyl will become stretchy, soft and pliable which makes it very hard to handle. The vinyl wrap can overstretch and cause color variations in the overstretched areas.

          As mentioned above, the best temperatures for successful fleet wrap installations are between 60 and 80 degrees.

          Why Professional Fleet Wraps Last Longer

          Professional fleet wraps last longer for the simple fact that they are professionally printed and installed. A vehicle wrap is not a “do it yourself” project that can easily be completed by the average person. Car wraps can cover the full vehicle or only half of the vehicle. In either case, the person installing the fleet wraps needs to take the entire vehicle into account including the curves, door handles and other areas of the car that have an impact on the way the vehicle wrap looks and fits on the vehicle. Professional fleet wraps last longer because the installation team knows the proper conditions to install the vinyl wrap and how to make sure there are no ripples or bubbles after it is installed.

          Contact our experienced installation team about installing a vehicle wrap that can handle any type of weather.

          Call Us for More Information at 314-872-3100

          OR

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