Vertical Printing
Technical Guide FAQ
Tell me about the image area.
Our technology allows an image up to 16’ high X unlimited width on a level surface to be printed. With additional services, we are able to run the machine on elevated platforms or scaffolding to increase operating height. We are able to split and stitch images to allow for even greater image height. There may be some limitations which will be project-specific.
As far as setback margins, hold-offs are 2.3” on the left, 3.5” on the right, 8.6” on the top, and 6.6” on the bottom. Setbacks are defined as any inside wall to the left or right, a column or other obstruction greater than approximately ½”.
How detailed is the image?
The maximum resolution of the printer is 900 x 1200 dpi, which is extremely detailed. Most jobs, including high-resolution photographs, are run at lower resolutions due to the time it takes to print at high resolution. We can print down to a 14-point font, allowing for detailed descriptions of museum exhibits, product descriptions, and other fine detail copy applications.
What about color accuracy?
We use some of the finest ink made by Agfa. It produces very vivid and lifelike colors which are CMYK accurate. When color accuracy is critical, we perform what is called a “print check”, much like a “press check”, where we put a piece of medium, color neutral material on the wall and print a registration strip to check for accuracy. As long as all color has been calibrated from the start of the graphic creation, it will render in the same color on the wall when printing on a pure white surface. Surfaces of other color may reproduce with some variation. In addition, our machine also offers white ink, which can be used as an “underlayment”, akin to a primer, allowing colors to pop through on darker surfaces.
Is the machine “green”?
The machine is manufactured under strict European Union manufacturing guidelines and processes in Germany. It uses minimal energy and requires no special power requirements to operate efficiently. Another “green” aspect is the machine is its ink usage, consuming a miserly ~1.5 ml/SF on prints. Lastly, the ink is immediately cured by UV light, which means that there is no off-gassing, odor, or VOCs (volatile organic compounds) released during or after the print process.
What about the ink?
Our ink is made to the highest standards by Agfa in Germany. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) can be provided for commercial projects where it may be a requirement. The inks are the most vibrant, enduring ink possible and will be 100% color stable in interior applications for a minimum of 12 years, assuming no direct sun exposure. An application of a UV inhibitor will extend that life if the print is in an area which receives high sunlight.
Is the print safe in medical environments?
Yes! Unlike PVC appliques and wallpaper, the print has no measurable edge and cannot build up bacteria along an edge or a seam making it ideal for sterile and clean environments.
What type of surfaces can be printed on?
The short answer is almost any substrate. Sheetrock, wood, brick, block, glass, metal, stone, tile and plastic are all printable surfaces. If you have a special project, we will do a test print in our lab to determine if the surface is printable – just contact us.
Vertical printing vs. PVC.
Typically used in commercial interiors, PVC has long been the standard for corporate branding and identity applications. PVC is polyvinyl chloride. Vinyl chloride is known to cause a variety of health risks. The removal of PVC stickers often removes the surface of drywall, requiring more repair (cost) and also presents a ridge which bacteria can build upon. a Our print technology is 100% zero emissions and safe for clean environments.
Vertical printing vs. custom wallpaper.
Custom wallpaper is often used in various commercial applications, specifically conference rooms and huddle spaces. Wallpaper is limited in resolution, difficult to install, has seams which can often be seen and are difficult to align, and I easily damaged. Wallpaper is often printed on materials which contain VOCs and off-gas. Wallpaper also can hold up commercial installations when there are problems with the wallpaper or nail pops in the wall surface. Wallpaper can also peel away at the edges and can create tremendous damage to the wall when removed. VerticalFX’s solution to the edge limitation is to paint a color coordinated bezel around the interior of a wall and let us print up to the border, dithering over it for a seamless transition. When you see how good it looks, you’ll be glad you didn’t go with wallpaper.
How durable is the print?
The print is UV resistant maintaining color fastness for 2 years outdoor and 12 years indoor at a minimum. It is waterproof, scratch proof, and industrial cleaning product resistant. An additional application of a UV inhibitor will extend these characteristics. The print is instantly scratch and abrasion resistant immediately upon UV curing.
What if I want to remove the print?
If the print is on drywall, one coat of primer and two coats of paint will completely cover the print. On glass or ceramic, a razor will remove the ink. Wood can be sanded or sand blasted. Metal or concrete surfaces are best bead blasted.
Special projects.
Do you have an idea we haven’t addressed? A unique challenge? VerticalFX lives for projects like these. Curved walls, challenging heights, new surfaces, and architectural scenarios – we’re all in. Our collective experience brings a depth of knowledge which will allow us to innovate, even experiment, to bring you your vision. Contact us.
Government contracts.
VerticalFX is on North Carolina state procurement schedule, vendor #4010714 and South Carolina state procurement schedule vendor #7000348046.
Safety.
All VerticalFX field employees are OSHA 10 certified or higher. We adhere to the highest standards of safety when working on active construction projects and come equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE) and cordoning equipment to keep all operations safe. VerticalFX carries full liability and worker’s compensation insurance.
What type of files do I need to provide?
VerticalFX will provide file conversion as part of the project price. You can provide print-ready artwork in SVG, PDF, JPEG, or EPS files. The higher the resolution the better. We will accept files via email or large files through our project management portal.
What does a wall print cost?
There are several factors which comprise the cost of a print: site conditions – level ground surface vs. uneven ground; the resolution of the print; is white underprinting needed; and additional services including graphic design and project management. On average, if you provide the graphics and the site is straightforward, prices start at $30.00 per square foot for a medium-high resolution wall print. Contact us to get more information about pricing for your project.
How long does it take to print?
Print speed depends on resolution. Most applications at a medium-high resolution can be printed at 30 square feet per hour (SF/HR). Lower resolution prints for larger applications can be printed as fast as 150 SF/HR. Setup time takes about 30 minutes.
Have a question?
We love questions. Please feel free to contact us via email direct, our inquiry form , or call/text 704.594.5000.
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Mooresville, NC
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