Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

How long will vinyl graphics last?
 

Vinyl suitable for use outdoors, has a durability of 2 - 8 years.  Unless a removable or less expensive vinyl is requested, we only use high performance vinyl rated at 7-8 years on vehicles and permanent signage.  In order to keep your vinyl graphics looking great, we recommend applying an occasional coat of wax.

 

How can I remove vinyl graphics?
 

Vinyl graphics can be most easily removed by first heating it with a heat gun.  If a heat gun is not available, a hair dryer or carefully using a propane torch can work.  Once the vinyl is warm, it can be simply (not necessarily easily) peeled off.  If glue remains, apply paint cleaning thinner to soften the glue and a plastic razor blade or squeegee to scrape it off.  There are also several aerosol spray decal removers on the market available at automotive paint & some parts stores.  Remember to be careful and to always test any thinners before using them.  If paint is more glossy under the decal, buff or wax the surface.

 

How can I remove painted graphics?

The secret to removing old hand lettering is oven cleaner.  Just spray it on, wait a few moments, and wipe off the graphics, then rinse well.  Remember to be especially careful with oven cleaner and to always test in a inconspicuous place before using it.  On some paint, discoloration may occur especially if paint is not original.  If paint is more glossy where the lettering was, buff or wax the surface.

What is the difference between "cast" & "calendared" vinyl?

Cast and calendared vinyls are made using two different processes.  But what is important, is the differences in their characteristics.

Cast vinyl is generally: glossy, thin (2 mil.), durable (7-8 years), conforms better to irregular surfaces, and is more expensive.  Cast vinyl is typically used for auto, truck & boat lettering, permanent signage, some banners and anywhere durability is a factor.

Calendared vinyl is generally: lower gloss, thicker (4-5 mil.) not quite as durable (3-4 years), does not conform well to irregular surfaces such as rivets or curves, and is less expensive.  Calendared vinyl is typically use for indoor and shorter term signage, banners, flat surfaces, construction signs, magnetic signs, interior signage, small decals, and anywhere durability is not critical.

Can photographs be reproduce  in vinyl?

Photorealistic and full color graphics can be printed on vinyl in 12" widths at virtually any length.  The rolls of vinyl are fed through a thermal printer where thermal resin foils are applied.  This process is ideal for photographic and multi-colored decals.  The outdoor durability of these decals are very good (3-5 years) with no lamination.  However, we recommend the application if a 2 mil. clear lamination for a high uniform gloss and added durability.

What if I need a multi-color decal taller than 12"?

For large graphics, there are several options.  For one color or simple multi-color graphics.  Solid vinyl can be cut from rolls of vinyl 48" wide.  The graphics can be paneled if a larger size is needed.  For large, complex, multi-color designs such as photographs, the 12" thermal resin prints can be paneled.  At this point, we may recommend switching to a different method called electrostatic printing.  This method allows for panels 36" to 54".  These prints can also be contour cut similar to thermal resin prints.

What type of vinyl is recommend for use over rivets or corrugation?

The very best vinyl for difficult surfaces is a product from 3M called Controltac with Comply adhesive.  This vinyl is based off of 3M's popular Controltac, only the adhesive has a unique feature.  A small grid in the adhesive allows the escape of air.  This makes large and small graphics easy to apply over rivets and corrugated metal.  This vinyl does carry a higher price tag, but the savings in time and ease of installation makes it a great alternative.  Especially if this is your first time installing a larger decal, we highly recommend this great product.

Do you accept computer files?

We can accept many computer files especially CorelDraw! and Gerber GA files.  We can convert Mac files, Adobe Illustrator, and other types.  We can also use: tif, gif, jpg, bmp, and pcx bitmaps.
 Click here for more detailed information.

Can you accurately reproduce  an existing logo?

We have digitized more than a few logos, and many from some really bad originals.  Even faxes and business cards can be used, although some accuracy may be sacrificed.  Each logo we digitize is first scanned, then meticulously redrawn.   When we finish with a logo, it is accurate and will maintains its integrity at any size.  Check with us, we have thousands of logos already digitized in our computer database.

There are so many sign shops today, what makes you special?

With the arrival of the "sign shop franchise" anyone with little or no design experience can get into the business.  We at Marazita Graphics, Inc. have been in the sign industry since the days of hand painted graphics.  We are not merely typists, but artist whose high-tech tools have earned us a reputation for well crafted, clean, readable designs.  We balance form and function to create the most effective signage available today.

2003 Marazita Graphics, Inc.                                webmaster: David Marazita