Labeling FAQs
May labels be applied on painted surfaces?
In general vinyl labels should not be applied on latex painted surfaces.
The tinting chemicals used to color latex paints contain surfactants. These are soap-like chemicals that will slowly leach onto the paint surface. This cause the label to come off the surface. It is like trying to get a label to stick on a soapy surface.
Latex paints also contain a plasticizer which can migrate out of the paint and into the label adhesive. This will cause adhesive failure.
For good label life we recommend the use of an oil-based gloss enamel paint. If the oil-based paint is applied on a surface that was recently painted with latex paint, we recommend allowing at least three weeks curing time.
How do I prevent a label applied to a Lexan surface from bubbling? No matter how careful I am, sometimes I get bubbles and sometimes I don't.
Lexan was invented by GE and is now manufactured by SABIC Innovative Plastics. Its chemical name is "polycarbonate."
Polycarbonate emits gases for a period of time after the protective film has been removed. This will cause bubbles in vinyl labels or signs. Whether or not bubbles appear depends on how much time the Lexan has had to "outgas."
To prevent bubbling remove the protecting film from the Lexan as soon as possible, and at least 24 hours before applying a vinyl label or sign. The best option, if possible, is to bake the Lexan (polycarbonate) for 4-24 hours at 250° in an air circulating oven. This will ensure that all gases have migrated out of the Lexan.
