Vinyl banners are a popular and cost-effective way to advertise your business or event. They are durable and long-lasting by design, but a little TLC will keep them looking their best for years to come. In New York City, where the weather can be harsh and the streets are busy, it’s especially important to exercise good banner care. This blog will share a complete care guide to keep your banners shiny, in shape, and long-lasting.
Five Tips to Keep Your Banners Looking Good as New
1. Keep it Clean
A clean vinyl banner will not only look better, but it will also last longer. Always use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the banner. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the vinyl. Instead, use a mild detergent or soap mixed with water. Be gentle when cleaning, and avoid abrasive materials, such as steel wool. After cleaning, use a squeegee to remove any excess water and dry the banner with a towel.
Stick to a consistent cleaning schedule to keep your banner looking fresh. In New York City, outdoor banners can be exposed to extreme weather conditions, such as rain, sleet, or high winds, requiring more regular cleaning. Depending on the season and banner location, you may want to clean it once a month or more. Remember, a clean banner is a happy banner.
2. Proper Storage is Key
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the appearance and longevity of your banner and banner stands. When not in use, always roll it up and secure it with a band. This will prevent wrinkles and creases from forming. Avoid folding, as this can cause permanent creases.
Also avoid storing the banner in a damp or humid area, as this can cause the vinyl to warp or even mold. Keep the banner away from heat sources, such as radiators or direct sunlight, as this can cause the colors to fade. Using a sealed plastic cover or tarp will help protect the banner from dust, debris, and other potential damage.
Proper storage is especially important in New York City where the weather can be unpredictable. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your vinyl banner stays in great condition, ready for use when you need it.
3. Protect Your Banner from UV Rays
UV rays from the sun can cause the colors to fade, the vinyl to crack, and the overall strength of the banner to weaken. Plan ahead by choosing a UV-resistant vinyl if you know your banner will spend a lot of time in the sun. UV-resistant vinyl is designed to withstand the harmful effects of UV rays, making it a more durable option for outdoor use. If you already have a banner made from standard vinyl, consider purchasing a UV laminate to apply to the banner to help protect it from UV rays.
If possible, avoid placing the banner in direct sunlight. Instead, place the banner in a shaded area, such as under an awning. If that’s not an option, consider taking down the banner during the hottest hours of the day. This will help reduce the amount of exposure to UV rays, and therefore extend the life of the banner.
4. Choose the Right Hardware for Hanging
When hanging a vinyl banner, it’s important to choose the right hardware to ensure that the banner stays securely in place and doesn’t sustain any damage. Always consider the weight of your banner. If the banner is lightweight, grommets and bungee cords can be used to secure it in place. However, if the banner is heavy, you may need to use stronger hardware such as snap hooks, d-rings, and ropes.
Next, think about the type of surface you’ll be hanging the banner on. For a brick, concrete, or wood surface, it’s usually best to use a screw or anchor to hold the banner in place. If the surface is non-porous, such as metal or glass, then suction cups or magnetic hangers can be used.
You should also consider the weather conditions when hanging the banner. In New York City, where the weather can be unpredictable, it’s important to ensure that the banner is securely fastened to withstand high winds and rain. You can use tensioning devices like ropes or cables to ensure that the banner stays in place.
5. Regularly Inspect and Maintain Your Banner
Regularly inspect your vinyl banner to ensure that it remains in good condition and quickly make repairs to prevent further damage. Here are a few things to look out for during your inspections:
- Tears or holes: these can happen from wind or from the banner rubbing against a rough surface. Repairing tears as soon as possible will prevent them from getting worse and causing the banner to fail
- Fading and discoloration: UV rays and weather can cause the colors on the banner to fade over time. If the colors are not as vibrant as they used to be, it may be time to replace the banner.
- Failing grommets or hardware: make sure that all the grommets and hardware are securely fastened and that none of them are rusted or broken. If any of the hardware is damaged, it’s best to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the banner stays securely in place.
- Mold or mildew: if you notice any mold or mildew on the banner, clean it as soon as possible to prevent spreading.
Regular inspection of your banner is crucial to ensure that it remains in good condition. In New York City, where the weather and environment are unpredictable, it’s even more important to keep a close eye on your banner to make sure it’s always in top shape.
Conclusion
A little care will go a long way to keeping your vinyl banners in top condition. Follow our simple tips for cleaning, storage, UV protection, hardware selection, and regular inspection to ensure your banners stay fresh for years to come. Don’t let these New York City streets bring your vinyl banners down!
