When planning for the purchase of custom-printed floor graphics for a commercial venue, retail store, convention center, or other high-traffic public space, it is essential to know how long the floor graphics will last. Beyond their aesthetic value, floor graphics provide other functions and advantages, making them essential in different areas.
Floor graphics (also sometimes called decals or stickers) are printed on self-adhesive vinyl which then may be placed on floors that receive a lot of foot traffic Regardless of whether it is a directional sign or a promotional message, the material used ensures that these decals can handle daily stressors.
Read more about how to How to Get Your Customers’ Attention With Floor Decals
Whether the graphics are intended to provide directional guidance to customers around a retail store or to strengthen brand identity at an event, these marketing assets add life to floors in a way that no other form of advertising can.
Expected Lifespan of Floor Graphics
The lifespan of floor graphics varies depending on a variety of factors. First, the location where they’re installed has a big impact. Graphics placed on any floor area that are subject to frequent or heavy foot traffic over time will deteriorate and will have a shorter useful life. For example, graphics placed in busy floor areas such as airports or train stations will likely deteriorate faster compared to a small retail shop.
Second, the type of material that is used in the making of the floor graphics greatly determines its durability. The material should be high-quality slip-resistant vinyl for maximum durability, making the expense justified.
Also, the use of digital printing in production makes the graphics more durable and has a higher quality of color that does not fade over time.
Read more 5 Cool Ideas for Your Floor Graphics
Materials Options for Printed Floor Decals
When choosing the best material for printed floor graphic decals, it's important to consider factors like durability, safety, and the surface where the decal will be applied.
The best material for printed floor graphic decals depends on the specific needs of your project, including the environment, duration, and traffic level. For most indoor applications, vinyl with a slip-resistant laminate is the top choice due to its durability, safety features, and excellent print quality.
For specialized needs, such as carpeted areas or outdoor applications, other materials like adhesive-backed carpet decals or anti-slip floor graphic films may be more appropriate.
Here are some of the top materials commonly used for floor graphics
1. Vinyl with Slip-Resistant Laminate - Best for high-traffic indoor areas, retail spaces, and public events. Advantages include:
Durability: Vinyl is highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic.
Slip Resistance: The addition of a slip-resistant laminate ensures safety, which is critical for floor graphics.
Vivid Printing: Vinyl offers excellent print quality, with vibrant colors and sharp details, making your graphics stand out.
Ease of Installation: Vinyl decals are easy to apply and remove without leaving residue.
2. Textured Vinyl - Best for areas where extra traction is needed, such as wet or slick surfaces. Advantages include:
Enhanced Grip: Textured vinyl has a rougher surface, providing additional traction to prevent slipping.
Durability: It’s as durable as standard vinyl but offers extra safety features.
Aesthetic Flexibility: Available in a variety of finishes, including matte and gloss, depending on the desired look.
3. Polyester Film - Best for short-term promotions, low-traffic areas. Advantages include:
Cost-Effective: Polyester film is often more affordable than other materials, making it ideal for short-term applications.
Easy Removal: Designed for temporary use, polyester film can be removed easily without damaging the floor or leaving sticky residue.
Good Print Quality: Offers decent print quality, though not as vibrant as vinyl, but sufficient for temporary uses.
4. Adhesive-Backed Carpet Decals - Best for application on carpeted floors at trade shows, events, or office spaces. Advantages include:
Specialized Adhesive: Designed to stick to carpet fibers without causing damage or leaving residue upon removal.
Durability on Soft Surfaces: These decals are made to withstand foot traffic on softer surfaces like carpets.
Custom Shapes: Easily cut into custom shapes for more creative designs.
5. Anti-Slip Floor Graphic Films - Best for environments where safety is a top concern, such as hospitals, gyms, or outdoor areas. Advantages include:
Superior Safety: These films are specifically engineered to provide the highest level of slip resistance, meeting or exceeding safety standards.
Weather Resistance: Many anti-slip films are also weather-resistant, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Durability: Resistant to scuffs, scratches, and heavy wear, ensuring longevity even in high-use areas.
Other Factors Affecting the Durability of Floor Graphics
Floor graphics have a longer lifespan when properly installed, cleaned, and maintained. Sweeping and mopping the floor, for instance, can help reduce friction from dirt and other particulate matter, which may lead to abrasions.
Areas that are frequently trafficked tend to show signs of degradation more quickly. Still, even in such conditions, CR&A’s high-quality floor graphics can stay bright and visible for months or even years.
Applications and Benefits
Additionally, floor graphics serve multiple purposes:
● Wayfinding: Guiding customers to certain areas within a store or at an event.
● Branding: Promoting brand awareness through well-coordinated aesthetics.
● Safety: Informing people about safety issues that could occur in certain environments such as industries, crossroads etc.
Continue reading to learn 5 Advantages of Custom Floor Stickers
CR&A Custom: Experts in Printed Floor Graphics
At CR&A Custom, we offer high-quality visual marketing products with a unique emphasis on floor graphics that are both long-lasting and bright. Our graphics are ideal for high-traffic environments and still retain their vibrant look and feel because we use high-quality materials and state-of-the-art printing technology. Therefore, our products appropriately fulfil functional benefits that include navigation, identification, and warnings. As a leading printing solution provider in the field of floor graphics, innovation and attention to detail are key focuses of our business.
Our other services include:
Floor graphics and branding have the potential to create vibrant and long-lasting impressions, especially with proper installation, maintenance, and quality material. These unique products combine utility and art, acting as effective and stylish objects.
Regardless of whether they are integrated for a few weeks or for years, it is crucial to use high-quality floor graphic visuals so that they remain a valuable addition to the space, effectively conveying the necessary messages and attracting attention.
