Is sun exposure causing your vinyl to fade? Why would my vinyl fade and shrink so quickly?
It’s all about the combination of climate zone and angle placement! Expected durability of outdoor vinyl with sun exposure can range from 0 years to 10 years no matter what the manufacturer rating is. Use the graphic below to help you select the right vinyl for your project.
H & H Sign Supply recommends using a cast vinyl such as Oracal 751 or 951 for horizontal sun exposure or surfaces with direct exposure. Using cast vinyl on commercial signage and vehicles is best. The rating for cast vinyl is 7-10 years depending on the series and color. Keep in mind, this is only a rating and not a guarantee. Some colors and finishes have less of a year rating. Graphics on the hood of a vehicle will fade and shrink much faster than a graphic on the door.
Use a calendered vinyl such as Oracal 651 for vertical exposure surfaces. If you are doing graphics on a store front with very little sun exposure, Oracal 651 is a great choice. Use 651 on signage that is not expected to last more than a few years such as banners or decals on personal cars. Although 651 is rated 6 years, again this is not a guarantee and it depends on the color you are using and the type of climate/sun exposure.
It is recommended to use cast vinyl as much as possible for outdoor graphics in zone 2.
What is “calendered?”
Calendered vinyl is manufactured in a style similar to pasta. It runs through a series of rollers and heaters until it achieves a consistent even thickness.
If you have questions and would like additional information, please do not hesitate to call us!
Toll-free: (866) 443-7140
H & H Sign Supply is proud to be a family owned & operated business. Our office and warehouse is located in Sturgis, Kentucky, and we currently operate two retail stores (Sturgis & Evansville, Indiana).