Q: What is the difference between printed and die-cut vinyl? 
A: Die-cut vinyl is typically used for simple graphics and lettering that has one or two colors. Printed vinyl would be used in applications such as full color graphics. If you have a complex logo that is more than just one or two colors, it will probably need to be printed. For example: Apple’s logo could be die-cut if it was to appear in just white. But if it appeared in a rainbow of colors or as a gradient, it would be printed. 
  
Q: When would I use banner wind slits? 
A: Wind slits are sometimes used for very large banners. They look like flaps in the shape of half circles. Cutting slits into banners is typically not advisable, because the slits can weaken the banner and tear the banner apart.  Besides making a banner look unattractive by detracting from the graphics, it will only reduce the wind-load by approximately 5 percent. Using bungee cords to hold up the banner instead will relieve some of the stress on the banner. If wind is a major concern, using a stronger, 18 oz. banner material is recommended, or a mesh banner that is perforated and allows wind to flow through it.

Q: What is the most economical material to use for my exterior sign?  
A: With plastic lettering, you can achieve the look of metal, but for the price of plastic.

Q: Do you offer laminating and when would I need to laminate a graphic?
A: Rubber Neck Signs offers laminating, or what is commonly referred to as an “overlaminate.” It is a clear film applied over a printed vinyl graphic to protect the graphic from being scratched. Laminate is available in glossy or matte finish.  

We recommend laminating printed graphics to protect against scratches, road debris, graffiti and UV exposure. For certain applications, you would not need to laminate, such as with temporary signage, or if graphics will be used indoors. The general rule is that graphics that move should be laminated (i.e. vehicle graphics.) Graphics that are printed on permanent vinyl that are expected to last for several years and are exposed to weather and road debris should be laminated. It is not necessary to laminate non-printed vinyl. However, if graphics are printed on a UV printer, they do not get laminated because of the special UV ink.  

Q: I have a graphic that I need printed on clear. Is that possible, and if so, how long will the graphic last?
A: Yes, we have the capability of printing on clear, as well as printing white ink and over 500 metallic colors. The clear vinyl that we most commonly print on has a 5-year outdoor durability – meaning the length of time the manufacturer expects the product to last under proper care. It comes in matte and gloss, with permanent adhesive. It works great for interior or exterior signage, decals, nameplates and di-cut letters. Printing on clear is a great solution if you are printing a gradient and want the background color to come through.

Q: How should I save and send my artwork?
A: For best results, save your artwork as a .pdf or .eps. Please save smaller printing jobs at 300 dpi (number of dots or pixels per inch). For larger jobs such as banners, use 150 dpi. Images over 18 square feet and up to 30 square feet, 100 dpi is recommended. For images over 30 square feet, save at 72 dpi; over 60 square feet, 50 dpi.

Q: I can’t find my artwork, but I can download my company logo from my website. Would that work?
A: No. Images taken from websites rarely can be reproduced for large format printing such as on banners or vehicle graphics, because they are typically very small images, usually about an inch in size, that will look distorted when blown up. For best results, we would need the original vector artwork or high resolution image, because it can be enlarged without losing the image quality.

Q: Do you offer a warranty on your vinyl?
A: Rubber Neck Signs has a full one-year warranty on all sign products, starting at the completion of the install. However, please note than an improper install will void the warranty. 

Q: What kind of banner material do you use and do you also offer double-sided banners and hemming? What is the widest banner you can print?
A: We use 13 oz. banner material that is curl and tear resistant and offers brilliant colors that pop. Our banners can be used for indoor and outdoor applications, and are available in matte and gloss. We don’t recommend gloss banners for outdoor applications, because of the glare from the sunlight. We also offer double-sided banners and hemming at an additional cost. The maximum height we can print without a seam is 8 feet.  

Q: What is your typical turnaround time?
A: Turnaround time depends on volume of current orders and what the job entails. However, most jobs are processed within 24 hours after artwork is approved for printing. Printing and laminating is a two-day process, because we have to let the ink cure for 24 hours before applying the overlaminate.

Q: I’m done using my old banner. Can they be recycled, or do they just go in the dumpster?
A: Banners are recyclable.

Q: What’s the best way to find out about any sales or promotions you are having? And do you offer a military discount?
A: Follow us on Facebook by clicking the icon at the top of our website. And in appreciation for our armed forces service members, we offer a military discount of 10% with a valid military ID. For the family members of military service members who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, we offer a free 6-inch by 6-inch “In Memory” decal.

Q: How do I apply car magnets?

A: Clean the area with mild detergent before application, so the magnet does not scratch your vehicle’s paint. Make sure the entire magnet is flat against the metal surface. If magnets are placed over body molding, magnets can fly off during transit. Remember to remove the magnets before a car wash. Magnets are used only on steel and will not stick on aluminum, plastic or fiberglass doors. For best results, wipe down magnets with a mild detergent about once a week. Avoid use on horizontal metal surfaces exposed to direct sunlight, such as a roof or hood, because it will fade graphics and decrease the life of your magnet. Avoid placing magnets on rusty paint, because it won’t adhere to the metal as well.

If you have a question that’s not listed here, please e-mail info@rubbernecksigns.com.