Laid Vinyl Record Boards: A Professional and Lasting Statement
Laid Vinyl Record Boards offer a sleek, professional, and often more permanent appearance for displaying athletic and academic achievements. Unlike slide-in systems, the records on these boards are created by applying custom-cut vinyl lettering and numbers directly onto the surface of the main board. This method results in a clean, integrated look that can be highly customized.
Characteristics of Laid Vinyl Record Boards
- Direct Vinyl Application: Record details (names, achievements, years) are precision-cut from sheets of adhesive-backed vinyl and meticulously applied to the board.
- Smooth, Integrated Look: Because the vinyl is applied directly, the graphics appear as if they are painted or printed on the surface, creating a very polished finish.
- High Customization: Offers extensive flexibility in terms of fonts, colors, layouts, and the incorporation of logos or other graphic elements directly into the board design.
- Durable Materials: The main board is typically made from durable substrates like PVC, acrylic, aluminum composite, or wood, while the vinyl used is high-quality outdoor-grade material designed for longevity.
Advantages of Laid Vinyl Record Boards
- Professional Aesthetics: They provide a high-end, built-in look that can significantly enhance the appearance of a facility.
- Design Flexibility: Complex layouts and intricate designs are easier to achieve compared to some modular systems.
- Durability: When high-quality materials are used and vinyl is applied correctly, these boards are very durable and can last for many years.
Updating Laid Vinyl Record Boards
Updating records on a laid vinyl board is more involved than with slide-in systems:
- Removal of Old Record: The existing vinyl for the outdated record must be carefully removed. This often requires a heat gun to soften the adhesive and a plastic scraper to lift the vinyl without damaging the board surface.
- Surface Cleaning: The area must be thoroughly cleaned to remove any adhesive residue.
- Application of New Record: The new, custom-cut vinyl record information is then carefully applied. This requires precision to ensure proper alignment and a bubble-free finish.
Due to the precision required, updates are often handled by professional sign companies or skilled school staff experienced in vinyl application. Some schools opt to order pre-spaced record updates from their supplier to simplify the application process.
When to Choose Laid Vinyl
Laid vinyl record boards are an excellent choice when:
- A highly polished, permanent, and professional look is desired.
- Records are not expected to change with extreme frequency.
- The budget allows for potentially more involved updates or professional assistance for changes.
- Complex or very custom graphic layouts are a priority.
Providers like School.com can design and produce laid vinyl record boards that are both visually stunning and built to last, creating a truly impressive tribute to your organization’s achievements.
For a comparison with other systems, see our general Record Boards Overview.
