Question how long before fading?

[netsol]

we need to replace a 36 x 48 aluminum sign (new logo from the branding department) for a long time client

IN A PERFECT WORLD i would do it on the gerber edge, (8 year fade resistance) with cut vinyl and gerber foil ribbons EXCEPT i need 7 pantone colors (+ black)

since we don't deserve the best, i can produce it on the Mutoh vj1617h (MP31 inks) (minimum 2 years fade resistance, without lamination)

OR

send out and have it UV printed & laminated

ON TO MY QUESTIONS:

(1)assuming the 2 years is accurate, how much additional useful life does a good UV resistant laminate add to the 2 years? this is a client we have a 28 year history with (as a computer consultant, not as a sign shop)
(2) what laminate should i use for maximum life?
(3) i also assume it is not worth while considering ecosol-max inks on the old roland mounting & laminating?
(4) am i asking too many stupid questions about a 12 sq ft sign that a smarter person would just send out?

 

[MikePro]

depends on the sun exposure.
in the northern hemisphere, south facing signage will get significantly less longevity out of the color.

a UV resistant laminate helps bigtime, but reds&yellows will be the first to go.
unlaminated, you may get two years out of it, but laminated you'll usually get double+

 

[Modern Ink Signs]

It depends on a few factors

Material used
Ink used
Lamination used (if any)
Region you are in
Exposure to sun


For example my shop has the 3M MCS Certification

Printing on 3M IJ180 with 8518 (gloss) lam with our HP 830W we have 7 vertical/2 horizontal based on our region. This is one of the best/better warrantees. Do a google search for more info.


I also seem to remember that the Gerber Edge foils were 2-3 years at best. I had one for a long time until a few years ago.

 

[unclebun]

I have never used a Mutoh, but we typically see around 5 years life from prints on our Epson (and also our old Mimaki). Sometimes more, sometimes less. The prints last longer if done with cast materials (car wrap type material) because what you see more often than not is failure of calendared laminate and its adhesive.

That said, I see a lot of signs done by our competitors that fade quickly and badly. I have no idea what they are using. Maybe they are doing them unlaminated.

 

[Gino]

Not knowing which way the sign is facing, I'd say on the roland, you'll get 3 to 5 years. Most matching rigid lams give you an additional 18 months.

 

[netsol]

i would be very tempted to do it on the gerber edge, or in cut vinyl, but i would need to match 7 pantone colors.
sounds too expensive buying 7 rolls of vinyl or 7 ribbons