If you have a large format printer but don’t already laminate, here are a few reasons why we think you should start.

1. Improved appearance

Adding wide format lamination via large laminating sheets or roll lamination film enhances the color of the photographs and provides a quality and professionalism that cannot be recreated in any other way.

2. Longevity

Laminate is a thin clear plastic film, such as PVC or polyester, that is attached to the print using either a cold pressure sensitive adhesive or heat. Because lamination film has a far better tear resistance than conventional paper, the document is far more durable and less likely to be damaged or torn. This is critical if your print is on paper and needs to last.

3. Resistance to Scratches

Another advantage of adding lamination is the protection that the film provides against any scratches to the print as a consequence of abrasion from nails, chemicals, and so on; even solvent and latex inks can be vulnerable to abrasion if not covered.

4. Water Resistance

Lamination strengthens the print’s resilience to water and other substances with which it may come into contact. (Prints that have been printed on solvent or latex are often waterproof nevertheless but not necessarily chemical proof).

5. UV Protection

The main other type of protection that lamination provides is against UV radiation or direct sunlight. Outdoors, all prints fade over time; however, by adding a protective layer of the laminate film, this process is prolonged, resulting in significantly longer-lasting prints. This is especially true for water-based inks.

To summarize, adding lamination to your print will not only make it tougher and more lasting, but it will also be a far more professional print that will not fade as quickly in direct sunlight and will be scratch and water-resistant. If your print needs to be washed, stepped on, or exposed to dirt/debris for an extended period of time outside, laminate it!