Brand management and product management are difficult enough functions without having to deal with avoidable issues.
When you invest considerable time, money and effort in a product labelling solution, you want peace of mind that the labels will retain their quality for many years to come.
However, that happens less than you may expect.
One of the most common reasons businesses come to Durolenz is because their previous labels—from other suppliers—are beginning to peel, detach, or fade. This not only leads to direct financial and time costs but also creates potential risks to the brand and reputation.
You can hear about some of those client stories here.
When businesses, and by extension their labelling suppliers, don’t ensure the label materials are adequately matched with adhesives necessary for the environment that the products will be subject to, the likelihood of label failure increases.
Key Questions Your Supplier Should Ask:
- What surface will your label adhere to?
- Will your label be exposed to harsh conditions, such as UV rays, extreme temperatures, or chemicals?
- Where will your label be applied?
- How long do you want the label to last?
Without the right adhesive, your labels are at risk of failure. It’s crucial that your supplier has the expertise to recommend the correct adhesive for your specific needs. Failing to get this right can result in peeling labels, dissatisfied customers, and even lost sales. Research shows that 52% of customers will switch to a competitor after a single poor experience. If your labels fail, your customers may follow suit.
Why It's Not Just About Choosing the Strongest Label Adhesive
You might think that choosing the strongest label adhesive is the answer. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Even the strongest label adhesives can fail if they aren’t selected and applied correctly. Several factors must be considered to ensure lasting results.
Heat and Humidity: A Dynamic Duo
Heat and humidity are often the perfect storm for adhesive failure. When exposed to high temperatures, adhesives can soften, weakening the bond between the label and the surface. This can lead to peeling, curling, or even complete label failure.
For example, imagine applying a new label to your vehicle, only for it to succumb to the sun’s heat and humidity. The adhesive begins to "ooze," the edges curl, and your carefully designed label deteriorates quickly. This is particularly disheartening after putting so much thought into the label’s design and application.
Improper Surface Preparation
A clean surface is essential for a strong adhesive bond. Even the best adhesive won’t perform well if it’s applied to a dirty or contaminated surface. Think about trying to stick a label to a bar table covered in spilled beer and food debris—it simply won’t work.
Before applying your labels, ensure the surface is free of dust, grease, dirt, and other contaminants. A quick wipe with a lint-free cloth can significantly improve the longevity and performance of your labels.
Surface Texture Matters
The texture of the surface also influences adhesive performance. Labels applied to hard, low-surface-energy materials tend to have more difficulty bonding. On the other hand, smooth surfaces provide more contact points for the adhesive, resulting in a stronger, longer-lasting bond.
Choosing the Right Label Adhesive: Options and Considerations
Self-Adhesive Vinyl
Self-adhesive vinyl, as the name suggests, combines both the material and adhesive into one, offering a straightforward, “what you see is what you get” solution. While it is durable, the adhesive properties cannot be customised beyond the two available types. The label design is printed directly onto the vinyl, with two primary options to choose from: Cast Vinyl and Calendered Vinyl.
- Cast Vinyl: The superior option. Cast vinyl is manufactured in a liquid form, spread into sheets, and cured in ovens. This process creates a flexible, durable material that can last between 5 to 12 years. Cast vinyl retains its colour, resists shrinking, and is less prone to cracking.
- Calendered Vinyl: Produced by extruding vinyl through a machine, calendered vinyl has a "memory" effect, meaning it may shrink, warp, or crack over time. This makes it less suitable for long-lasting applications, particularly where environmental stress is a factor. Calendered vinyl films are a cost effective option for short term labeling applications, offering easy application and suitability for temporary use.
At Durolenz, we carefully assess each project's unique requirements to recommend the most suitable self-adhesive vinyl. By considering factors such as durability, environmental conditions, and application needs, we ensure that every label delivers long-lasting performance and high-quality results.
Acrylic Foam Adhesive
Acrylic foam adhesives are double-sided tapes featuring a foam core coated with high-performance acrylic on both sides. This adhesive type is highly versatile and provides strong bonding on various surfaces while securely holding heavier weights.
Benefits of Acrylic Foam Adhesive:
- Flexible bond, resilient to all weather conditions
- Quick and safe application with immediate adhesion
- Acts as a shock absorber, ideal for labels exposed to impact
Acrylic Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA) Tapes
Acrylic PSA tapes are single-sided tapes with a thin layer of acrylic adhesive. These tapes are often tailored to specific applications, such as adhering to high-surface-energy materials like glass, or low-surface-energy materials like polypropylene.
Acrylic PSA tapes provide a durable, long-lasting bond, making them suitable for a wide range of labelling needs. However, it’s crucial that your supplier fully understands your project’s requirements to recommend the right adhesive. The correct choice ensures your labels stay secure and don’t peel prematurely or detach over time.
The Consequences of Choosing the Wrong Label Adhesive
Choosing the wrong label adhesive can lead to several significant issues:
- Label Failure: Improper adhesion can result in peeling, fading, or complete detachment of the label, compromising both the product's functionality and appearance.
- Product Damage: An inappropriate adhesive may cause surface damage, especially when the label is removed, leading to costly repairs or even product recalls.
- Brand Reputation Damage: Labels that fail to stay in place or degrade prematurely can harm your brand’s reputation, eroding customer trust and loyalty.
- Increased Costs: The need to replace damaged or incorrectly applied labels can be costly, particularly for large production runs, adding unnecessary expenses to your bottom line.
Why Label Adhesive Matters - Final Thoughts
By partnering with an experienced supplier who understands your unique requirements and the environmental factors at play, you can prevent costly label failures and protect your brand’s integrity. Remember, it's not just about choosing the strongest adhesive; it’s about selecting the right adhesive for the job.
