Because AlumiGraphics® aluminum foil decal print media is so unique, we answer a lot of questions! Below are a list of commonly asked questions and answers that may help you understand how AlumiGraphics® is so superior to any other outdoor decals on the market.

 

1. What is AlumiGraphics®?

 

AlumiGraphics® is a foil-based wide format print media for digital printers. It is available with two finishes -- AlumiGraphics® GRIP and Alumigraphics® SMOOTH

AlumiGraphics® GRIP features a non-skid surface suitable for exterior walkways made of asphalt, brick, cement and other masonry surfaces. AlumiGraphics® SMOOTH is designed exterior walls such as brick, cinder block, and stucco. 

The material naturally conforms to rough or smooth textured surfaces; giving the appearance of painted graphics. The high-friction surface provides duel characteristics including exceptional slip resistance and reflectivity making this the best-in-class material that is durable, safe, highly visible and easy to use.

 

2. How is AlumiGraphics® Used?

 

AlumiGraphics® is utilized for graphics that can appear as painted on floors or walls both outdoor and indoors. Because the material is so easy to apply and remove, there are many creative applications for advertising, branding, experimental marketing, directional / way-finding, and interpretive graphics at restaurants, retail, trade shows, stadiums, amusement parks, transportation facilities, parking garages, public sidewalks, and more.

 

3. Does AlumiGraphics® need an over laminate?

 

No, AlumiGraphics® does not need an over laminate. The unique coating bonds to most of the industry's solvent, eco solvent, UV and Latex inks.

 

4. Will people trip on AlumiGraphics® Grip?

 

AlumiGraphics® Grip is a rugged aluminum foil material and is designed to naturally conform to the texture of rough or smooth surfaces. The high-friction / slip-resistant surface improves the stability of pedestrian traffic in the area it is applied to. It's designed to withstand harsh weather conditions in both hot and cold weather conditions. Please review our slip test results here.

 

5. Is AlumiGraphics® Grip reflective?

 

Yes, AlumiGraphics® Grip non-skid surface does have a reflective quality in areas that are not printed. The result is a graphic that is highly visible at night when lights shine near the graphic.

​

6. What size is AlumiGraphics® available in?

 

AlumiGraaphics® is available in blank rolls. Both finishes are 53 inches in width, completely usable edge to edge and is available in lengths -- 30, 75, or 150 feet long. Note, a test roll is also available...which measures 26.5" wide x 10' long. 

​

7. What can be printed on AlumiGraphics®?

 

Because it is produced on large format digital printers, absolutely anything can be printed on this media including intricate logos, photographs or solid color arrows. Large scaled graphics can be tiled together and form almost any size and shape.

​

8. What type of digital printer can AlumiGraphics® be used on?

 

AlumiGraphics® can be used on UV curable, Latex, Eco Solvent and Solvent printers. It can also be used on screen printers. Contact us with any production questions.

​

9. Can AlumiGraphics® be cut to any shape?

 

AlumiGraphics® media can be cut to shape with large format plotters, die cutting or manually with scissors. As with any aggressive non-skid substrate, AlumiGraphics® GRIP will dull blades quicker than thin vinyl substrates.

10. How Does AlumiGraphics® GRIP compare to other media used on concrete and asphalt?

 

AlumiGraphics® Grip is the widest media of its type at 53" w; usable edge to edge. It can be used outdoors as well as indoors; does not require expensive professional installation; never needs a laminate, and it holds up to both heavy pedestrian and rolling vehicle traffic. It is truly reliable, cost efficient and safe.

​

11. How easy is AlumiGraphics® to apply?

 

It doesn't get any easier!!! No heat, sealer, over-laminate or professional installer required. Simply sweep the desired area clear of dirt, debris or moisture (If the surface is oily, it may need to be power washed with a commercial degreaser); peel off the release liner; lay flat on the surface and compress by hand or with a roller, making sure all edges are completely adhered. It is now ready for immediate use. The high performance pressure sensitive adhesive provides superior holding strength. It can be applied at temperatures of 33 degrees F / 0 degrees C or above; however, you MUST consider the temperature of the surface to which you're applying. Stone and metal surfaces are often colder than air temperature. It is ALWAYS best to test application when temperatures hover around freezing. For maximum initial adhesion, it is recommended to install in temperatures 50 degrees F or above.

​

12. Is AlumiGraphics® simple to remove?

 

Yes, just take a putty knife or blade to peel up a corner then pull off at an angle less than 45 degrees. AlumiGraphics® typically leaves no residue. Graphics placed on asphalt or other rough surfaces in locations where heavy vehicle traffic is present could be difficult to remove and may require power washing at a low angle to remove worn-in graphics.

​

13. Is AlumiGraphics® Grip environmentally friendly?

 

Yes, AlumiGraphics® is made from aluminum and contains no PVC or hazardous ingredients; it can be disposed with aluminum recycling.

 

 

14. What is the warranty of AlumiGraphics® Products?

 

FloorSignage warranty information for our AlumiGraphics line can be found here: AlumiGraphics Warranty

 

 

15. Can AlumiGraphics® be used on glass or high gloss finishes?

 

AlumiGraphics® features a specially-formulated adhesive that is designed for a clean release on masonry surfaces...most, of which, are highly-textured. If AlumiGraphics® is placed on glass or masonry products with a very highly-polished surface (like polished marble), some adhesive can be left behind. Adhesive can be removed using Simple Green, mineral spirits or other similar cleaning products. As always, we recommend testing AlumiGraphics® on the surface prior to a full installation.

 

 

16. Does AlumiGraphics® need heat to apply?

 

No, AlumiGraphics® DOES NOT need heat to apply. The AlumiGraphics® foil substrate naturally conforms to textured surfaces. The material easily conforms using a J-roller or similar rubber application roller.

 

 

17. Can AlumiGraphics® be applied to painted surfaces?

 

As with any substrate, AlumiGraphics bond to painted surfaces is only as strong as the paint is to the brick. If the adhesion of the paint to the brick is not optimal, there is a chance that paint will peel away from the brick. FloorSignage always recommends to fully test adhesion and removal of AlumiGraphics on the actual surface before using.

 

 

 

18. Can AlumiGraphics® be applied to High Surface Energy applications?

 

With caution. AlumiGraphics® is formulated to adhere to low surface energy surfaces like sidewalks, asphalt, stucco and brick. By nature, any surface categorized as a high energy surface (metal, glass, hard-coated / sealed concrete, high gloss tile, etc.) will bond very quickly and very aggressively. It can sometimes be difficult to install large graphics without wrinkling and very limited repositioning. When applied to high surfaces engery, the bond becomes much more permanent. Removal from high energy surfaces may leave residue when removed and may require additional clean-up. As always, we highly recommend testing AlumiGraphics® on every surface before making a final decision.

​

19. How long will AlumiGraphics® last?

​

Depending on which material and the application, AlumiGraphics is rated to last up to 12 months on outdoor walkways and up to 24 months on exterior walls. In many cases, AlumiGraphics can last even longer! Ultimately, it depends on the quality of print and must be properly installed. Because every application is different and unlimited variables, product longevity can be shortened (or extended). For example, an amusement park with 50,000 attendees per day with a graphic installed in the main entrance may experience shortened longevity compared to the same graphic installed in an amusement park with 10,000 visitors per day.

 

For indoor applications, we've experienced product longevity for 3 or more years...ESPECIALLY on indoor walls.  

 

 

Have another question? No problem, an AlumiGraphics®representativewill be happy to answer any question you have regarding the product line. Don't hesitate to call us toll free at (855) 855-8832 or use the form below to submit a question.