Print Lamination

Print lamination plays an important role in large format production by protecting, enhancing or adapting printed graphics for specialist use. Lamination is used across commercial interiors, retail displays, events, exhibitions, signage and long term external applications where durability and visual quality must be maintained.

Lamination is the process of applying a clear or textured protective film over a printed graphic. It enhances durability, improves resistance to scuffing and moisture, and can change the final appearance with finishes such as gloss, matt or specialist textures. Where a graphic needs to be applied to a surface or mounted to a rigid board, this is achieved through the choice of self-adhesive media or a separate mounting process, rather than lamination itself.

Our lamination equipment includes a hot and cold Seal laminator with a working width of 1.6m. This allows us to laminate both roll fed graphics and prints prior to mounting onto rigid sheets efficiently. For larger panels up to 3050mm by 1550mm, lamination is typically carried out before mounting, with the printed graphic then bonded to the rigid substrate using a dedicated mounting adhesive. This process enables the production of large format panels suitable for signage and display applications.

Suitable for a Wide Range of Materials

Many commonly used large format materials benefit from lamination. Printed Foamex, Correx, ACM, display board and foam board can all be laminated to enhance their lifespan and protect them from external factors such as UV exposure, moisture or general handling. Lamination improves colour stability over time and helps printed surfaces withstand environments such as retail spaces, leisure facilities, public locations and construction sites.

The choice of laminate depends on how and where the finished graphic will be installed. Gloss films increase colour vibrancy, matt laminates reduce glare in bright environments and textured laminates create visual or tactile effects suited to interior decoration or brand features. Our team advises on the correct laminate for each application to ensure both performance and appearance are optimised.

Specialist Lamination for Function and Safety

Some applications require specialist laminates to meet functional or safety requirements. Anti-slip laminates are used for floor graphics where pedestrian traffic is expected and adherence to safety standards is essential. Anti-graffiti laminates protect prints in public spaces and make ongoing maintenance easier. Textured laminates, including peach skin, carbon fibre or leather effect, are used for decorative or branded environments where the finish contributes to the overall design aesthetic.

By selecting the correct laminate, we ensure each graphic performs well in its intended location and maintains its appearance for the required duration of the installation.

Mounting and Adhesive Application

Mounting and adhesive application are handled as separate finishing processes alongside lamination. Where printed graphics need to be bonded to rigid materials such as Foamex, Dibond or display board, this is achieved using dedicated mounting adhesives selected for stability, longevity and surface compatibility.

Lamination may be applied before mounting to protect the printed surface, or after mounting, depending on the application, but it is not the bonding method itself. Adhesive-backed print media and specialist mounting films are used where graphics need to be application-ready, such as window graphics or removable displays.

By separating lamination from mounting and adhesive application, we ensure each stage of the finishing process is technically correct and suited to the final use of the graphic.

Guidance and Technical Support

If you are unsure which laminate or mounting method is most suitable for your project, our team can provide guidance based on the installation environment, expected lifespan and desired finish. By understanding the requirements of the site and the purpose of the graphic, we can advise on the correct approach to ensure the final product performs effectively. Lamination is an important part of the production process, and choosing the right option can significantly improve both the appearance and durability of a project.