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Comparing the Use of One Step and Two Step Floor Graphic Solutions

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Floor graphics are an essential tool in retail, event spaces, and public areas to effectively guide and attract attention. Before you start your next floor graphic project, know not all floor graphics are created equal. In this post, we explore one-step and two-step floor graphic solutions, offering insights for your next project.

One Step Floor Graphics

As single layer graphics, one step floor graphics are designed to be applied to flooring surfaces without additional protective layers. Many one step floor graphic films are made from durable vinyl materials with an adhesive backing and textured non-slip certified, printable face.

One step floor graphics bring many benefits. They’re easy and straightforward to produce. One step floor graphics can be budget friendly. The face film is textured, negating the need for an overlaminate. Without the need for a second overlaminate layer, only one layer is produced, saving your budget.

An important detail to know for your floor graphic application is foot traffic. Foot traffic can include pedestrians but also things like shopping carts and cleaning agents. Since one step floor graphics do not have a second protective layer, the ink is not well protected. Over time the unprotected ink can be less than two step graphics. Wear and tear can make floor graphics scuff, scratch, and fade before your promotion is completed.

Two Step Floor Graphics

Two step floor graphics are created with two materials layered over top of one another. The base layer is a smooth, adhesive-backed material like vinyl that is printed. The second clear, textured, protective overlaminate is applied with a laminator to create a non-skid surface for pedestrian safety. The overlaminate, or laminate, also adds durability and enhanced protection of the base layer.

When protection and durability are a high priority, two step floor graphics deliver these benefits. The protective overlaminate makes graphics more resistant to wear and tear. This additional layer safeguards floor graphics from scuffs, spills, and cleaning agents. The clear laminate gives the polished, professional look important for long term installations or high profile events.

While two step floor graphics bring many benefits and durability, they come at a higher cost. Two layers of material costs more than one step graphics. The complexity of two step floor graphics is felt during the production process when the laminate is applied.

Choosing One Step or Two Step Floor Graphics

Many short term floor graphic applications use one step floor graphics. One step floor graphic solutions are ideal for a variety of short term applications including temporary promotions and sales, seasonal decorations, directional signage, pop up shops, and indoor and outdoor events. Since they are typically a lower cost, quick to apply, and can be easy to remove, temporary floor graphics are a match for one step floor solutions.

When factors like long term use or high traffic are critical to a project, a two step floor solution could be better suited. Two step graphics have a higher degree of durability and added protection for the graphic to meet these requirements. Longer-term branding in retail, promotional and directional signage in airports or train stations are applications where two step floor graphics can be used. The added overlaminate adds costs, but the enhanced durability and professional look of these graphics justify the higher cost and complex production process.

The specific requirements of your floor graphic application will largely inform the need for one step or two step floor solutions. One step graphics are simpler and more cost effective for shorter term uses. Two step graphics offer additional durability and protection for long term and high traffic environments. When you understand the benefits and limitations of each type of floor graphic solution, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and ensures the success of your next project.