What is the difference between your White Polyester Weatherproof and your Vinyl Laser Weatherproof materials?

Both our white polyester weatherproof (material abbreviation XW) and vinyl laser weatherproof (material abbreviation XL) materials are great, durable choices that can be used for a variety of label applications. Both materials are offered in roughly 400 preselected sizes to choose from, but what specifically separates the two? Let’s find out!

White Polyester Weatherproof (XW) Material Specifications

• Printer Compatibility: Laser
• Face: 2.5M TC MATTE WHITE LASER PET
• Liner: 3.5M LF LINER
• Finish : Matte
• Adhesive: BP-52 PERMANENT
• Material Type: Polyester
• Temperature Range: -40°F to 200°F
• Min. App. Temperature: 32°F
• GSM Rating: 182

Vinyl Laser Weatherproof (XL) Material Specifications

• Printer Compatibility: Laser
• Face: 3.4 mil
• Liner: 72 lb.
• Finish: Satin/Matte
• Adhesive: Permanent
• Material Type: Vinyl
• Temperature Range: -30°F to 175°F
• Min. App. Temperature: 32°F
• GSM Rating: 262

Primary Difference

Although both materials have some overlapping features, they have some key differences in terms of their properties and applications. Here are the main distinctions between polyester and vinyl label materials

 1. Material Composition:

Polyester labels are made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a durable and versatile synthetic polymer whereas vinyl labels are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a synthetic plastic material.

2. Durability:

Polyester labels are known for their exceptional durability. They are resistant to tearing, moisture, chemicals, and UV radiation. They can withstand harsh environmental conditions, making them suitable for outdoor applications. Vinyl labels are also durable, but they are generally less resistant to UV radiation and extreme temperatures compared to polyester labels. They may not be as long-lasting in outdoor settings and therefore are more commonly used for less-severe applications.

Although a less durable option, the luxurious look and feel of the material make it a popular choice for promotional items, particularly within the stickers market.

3. Flexibility:

Polyester labels have limited flexibility. They are relatively rigid and less conformable to curved or irregular surfaces whereas vinyl labels are more flexible and conformable. They can adhere well to curved or uneven surfaces, making them suitable for labeling on containers, vehicles, or any equipment with non-flat surfaces.

4. Printability:

Polyester labels have excellent printability. They are very easy to print using a laser printer, and the prints on polyester labels tend to be more resistant to smudging and fading. Vinyl labels may have slightly lower print quality as it is easier for the toner to break down. However, the satin finish of vinyl labels gives your print a more vibrant appearance.

5. Application Areas:

Due to their durability and resistance to harsh conditions, polyester labels are often used in industrial, automotive, and outdoor applications. They are suitable for asset labeling, equipment identification, warning labels, and product branding that require long-lasting labels.

Vinyl labels are commonly used for a wide range of applications, including product labeling, window stickers, bumper stickers, decals, and promotional labels. As previously mentioned, their flexibility makes them ideal for labeling on curved or irregular surfaces.

For more information on the materials, contact us to get in touch with a representative or feel free to order some free samples of the materials to test them out yourself!