Outdoor Labels

outdoor labelsIn 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.

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

Choosing colors of outdoor labels that are darker will last longer outdoors, because lighter, brighter colors degrade faster. You can also request fade resistant inks that may help extend the life of the labels. Of course you can always place the labels in an area that is shaded to avoid UV ray exposure.

Varnish Or Lamination

You can also elect to go with a varnish or standard non-UV lamination which will still extend the life of the labels but not be specifically UV resistant. It’s a good idea to order laminated labels for maximum protection against the elements, but not absolutely required if the labels will be outdoors for only months at a time.

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.

 

I reached out to Nova for client work for my company. I needed a quick solution to achieve professional, quality gold stickers in a tight timeline. Michael was prompt in his communications, provided pictures of samples so I knew what to expect of the material, and delivered on time. I would definitely work with them again and recommend them to anyone looking for a great label printer in NYC.

thumb Aisha Lopez
February 11, 2023

I recommend Nova highly for their prompt professional responses to my request to produce my new CD. Price was right and the final product was produced quickly and as requested. Patriot All-Stars

thumb Susan Sabatine
December 13, 2022

I recommend Nova highly for their prompt professional responses to my request to produce my new CD. Price was right and the final product was produced quickly and as requested.Patriot All-Stars

thumb Susan Sabatine
November 22, 2022
Loreal
jpmorgan chase
nasa
cbs
democracy now
oglivy
BMW
google
american express
Eleven Madison park
British Embassy
Bumble
conEdison
FOX Sports
Fox News
Georgia Tech
Honeywell
Joffrey Ballet School
Kind
La Mer
Made Nice
Moet Hennessy
Vivienne Westwood
NYU
Yves Saint Laurent