What is the outdoor durability of VinylEfx films?

 

A: Vinylefx decorative series provides approximately six months to a year of outdoor durability. Decorative VinylEfx films, however, are not warranted for exterior applications. VinylEfx outdoor durable series provides up to five years exterior life. Durability varies depending on environmental conditions, installation procedures and the product suitability to the intended applications.

 

Black and other dark surfaces absorb a tremendous amount of heat and can be troublesome.   In the summertime, substrate surface temperatures often reach as high as 170ºF. This excessive heat often causes film failure.

 

Clear coating or protecting the graphics with an overlaminate can extend the film’s outdoor life. Before clear coating or overlaminating, wait a minimum of 24 hours to allow the ink system to cure. (Some vinyl manufacturers are now recommending curing times as long as 72 hours.) Allowing the inks to cure completely is especially important when the print has heavy deposits of ink. After applying the clear coat, wait an additional  24 hours before application. All outdoor graphics should be edge sealed.