Which Files Should You Laminate?

Clearly, every American home has several paper documents that need protection. Some people have safes to store their papers, and others have entire filing cabinets. Whichever storage category you fall into, you must keep your files orderly and safe from the elements. One of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to keep your papers safe from water is by using clear covers. This clear transparency film can be used to permanently cover a document, while plastic sleeves can keep documents waterproof and still accessible.

Government Documents

When it comes to using laminating film on government-issued documents, it is a good idea to do some research first. Several government documents are printed on special paper, such as passports and social security cards. Since these are unique, they should not be laminated and simply kept in a plastic pouch. For example, a laminated birth certificate may not be permissible in court, so look into the government documents you are thinking about putting clear covers on.

Certifications and Awards

College degrees and diplomas should be copied before you display them. These academic achievements are a big part of your life, so only laminate a copy of them. Many certifications have signatures and embossments that signify their authenticity. Thus, putting your many degrees in laminating pouches may make it harder to determine their validity. Clear covers are perfect for high school awards, team photos, and special honors.

Personal Keepsakes

For all items of a personal nature, clear covers are an outstanding solution for keeping them waterproof and safe from dust or debris. Things like personal art projects, antique postcards, ID Cards, and multi-use documents could all benefit from lamination pouches. In this recent pandemic, several people are laminating their Covid vaccination cards to keep them from wearing out. If you have a passwords list for your devices that gets pulled out all the time, it may be a good idea to get it laminated.

Pouch lamination also helps prevent projects from falling apart. Old antique paper tends to shred and crumble, but transparency film can bring these pieces together permanently. Additionally, an art project that uses flowers or 3D elements can be kept in perfect shape with a clear cover on top.

If you are worried about your important documents being compromised, look into lamination as a sealing option. Even government documents with seals and important embossments need protection in some form, so consider plastic sleeves for the files you cannot laminate. If you need help getting started, give us a call today!