Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/827403
74 • June 2017 • S I G N & D I G I T A L G R A P H I C S SPECIALTY IMAGING DIGITAL GRAPHICS Once the work is printed (or has come back from an outsource printer, for specialty jobs), the biggest challenge in making floor graphics perfect is the issue of installation. Unlike standard wall- or window-mounted images, floor graphics will be walked on or scuffed by shopping carts and dollies, so it's important to do a perfect job on the install, the first time. "If an installation is done incorrectly, it can hinder the overall appearance of the graphics as well as impede the walk- ing plane," 3 M's Coleman says. "We recommend that prior to any applica- tion, the surface should be stripped of wax, cleaned and degreased to promote adhesion. The last step should always be to re-squeegee the edges so they don't curl up. Another tip for successful instal- lation is to have the floor graphics waxed over when the entire floor is treated. This will meld the two together and make the appearance even more seamless." For bigger projects—such as aisle- wide print jobs—installation work can be a little trickier. "Installation of large, paneled graph- ics also requires careful inspection for wrinkles, bubbles and properly adhered seams," adds FLEXcon's Tomas. "Seams on multi-panel floor graphics should be butted together rather than overlapped to minimize the profile of the graphic and eliminate unnecessary raised edges." Retailers are discovering the added value of bright advertis- ing images at their customers' feet; installation and using the right non-slip overlaminates are crucial to safe and suc- cessful jobs. (Photo courtesy of FLEXcon)