Below are the answers to our most frequently asked questions. Please contact us or call 800.523.2347 to speak with a representative if you have additional questions.
Laminators sells to installers through a network of distributors and independent reps across the United States and Canada. Call 800-523-2347 to learn where to purchase our architectural panel products and installation systems.
Yes. We expect that, on some projects, the Omega CI installer may be different than the Omega-Lite installer. We will work with the project team to coordinate delivery of the Omega CI product to the proper trade/customer for the project.
No. Omega CI was not intended, designed, or tested behind other third-party exterior wall coverings. OCI is not intended to be used without a Laminators’ system.
Yes. We recommend and provide an approved list of silicone caulks and adhesives for use with our panels on our website. Refer to the Laminators Approved Materials document for the most current list.
Laminators sells a high density (7 lb.) closed cell PVC foam tape that has been tested and approved to work with our installation systems. Typically, the foam tape stocked at hardware stores is not PVC or it is of a lower-density construction than we recommend and it will not be effective with our panels. In addition, the proper 3/16″ x 2″ size may be difficult to find at a local store as well. Failure to use our recommended instructions and materials may void your warranty.
We also sell #6 x ¼” Phillips Pan Head screws (Part No. 13000) which are used for fabrication purposes (for the installation of Rout & Return clips or Dry Seal Z-extrusions to the panels, and reinforcement angles for fabricated corners). We have found that it is sometimes difficult to find this particular screw at a local hardware store or distributor. All other screws and rivets included in our installation instructions and details are typically readily available from local sources.
If Omega CI is part of your project, we sell fasteners that are 4” in length and are designed specifically for attaching the Omega CI product to steel framing. We sell these fasteners in 500 count packs.
One of the advantages of working with Laminators Incorporated is that we don’t have order minimums. However depending on the item(s) ordered, a set up charge may apply.
The answer to this question varies by region. However, we have found that the total cost of the aluminum profiles supplied by Laminators, inclusive of material, handling, and installation, is less expensive than that of typical steel profiles.
Lead time for manufacturing is 2-4 weeks for most standard panel systems. Actual lead time may vary depending on the size of the order, special materials, ship to location, custom color orders, etc. Call 800-523-2347 for more information.
Laminators Incorporated offers a wide variety of colors and finishes to meet your specific product needs. Laminators’ panels are available in polyester, anodized and PVDF/Kynar 500 coatings.
We can provide nearly any color to match your standard. Simply send us a sample of the color you are looking to replicate or provide a Pantone color number. Our team of experts will work to color-match our panels to meet your needs.
Yes. Laminators offers color-matched flashing to suit your project needs.
Laminators offers a variety of cores for our ACM panels. Omega‐Lite has a polypropylene, corrugated core. Omega-Lite FR also has a polypropylene, corrugated core, but includes fire-resistant additives. Thermolite incorporates an insulated foam core sandwiched between the same corrugated core Omega‐Lite utilizes. Omega Foam‐Ply also has an insulated foam core, but it is between hardboard stabilizers. Our brochures and our Architectural Selector Tool are available to assist you in selecting the best product for your specific project.
InfernoShield meets the criteria for acceptance for a non-combustible material per IBC section 703.5. The elementary material (i.e., the calcium-silicate panel core) has been tested in accordance with ASTM E136 and the surface of the composite panel is not greater than 1/8 inch, while also having a flame spread index less than 50 when tested in accordance with ASTM E84.
You can access R-value information on our Technical Data Sheets.
Laminators developed a router bit that is specifically modified to groove our corrugated panels and score the back of the face metal. This maintains the integrity of the panel and provides a crisp corner on the return. We strongly recommend using the Laminators’ router bit to save time, reduce waste and ensure proper installation.
Yes. Laminators Incorporated provides Installation/System Guides, CAD Drawings, and an Approved Materials List to be used in the development of shop drawings. Shop drawing details may be generated to meet/adapt to project-specific conditions provided such details remain in conformance with Laminators CAD Drawings. However, shop drawing details that are generated in conflict with Laminators CAD Drawings are not supported and will render any warranty null and void. Please contact Laminators Technical Support for any questions regarding the use of Laminators CAD Drawings.
A vapor-permeable air and water barrier (AWB) must be located on the surface of the Omega CI in order to protect the plywood layer from moisture infiltration from the exterior and to allow less restricted vapor flow through the Omega CI product. At the discretion of the project-specific Design Professional of Record (DPR), an additional AWB may be located on the face of the gypsum sheathing behind the Omega CI. It is recommended that the additional AWB be vapor-permeable.
Per Laminators detail sets, the 1-Piece, Tight-Fit and Clip & Caulk panel systems and Omega CI are not permitted over open framing (i.e. without a substrate).
On the current Approved Materials List, the air and water barrier (AWB) is listed for each of the NFPA 285 tested assemblies. If a different AWB is proposed for a project, an Engineering Judgment Letter (EJL), or Engineering Evaluation (EEV), would be required. Alternatively, you can reference Laminators’ EEV for a list of additional AWB materials that are approved for use in NFPA 285 assemblies.
Please note that the commonly used terms “air and water barrier” (AWB) and “air and vapor barrier” (AVB) are not interchangeable. An AWB controls liquid water, while an AVB will prevent the movement of water vapor (water in gas form). A vapor barrier is never permitted to be installed on the surface of Omega CI. If a second AWB is installed on the gypsum sheathing behind the Omega CI, it is recommended that it be vapor-permeable.
The new & improved 1-Piece, Tight-Fit and Clip & Caulk field-fabricated installation systems were designed, tested, and detailed with a nominal 1” air space between panel and substrate. If the dimension of the proposed air space deviates from 1” and/or there is a proposed third-party CI system, an EJL would be required.
Yes. Typically with alternate manufacturer’s panel systems, radial panel installations require costly engineering, shop fabrication, and are difficult to install. Omega-Flex panels make such applications easy and inexpensive without sacrificing beauty; however, special panel configurations are required. Flex panels will conform to the curved shape of the structural support system without costly off-site roll-forming. Omega-Flex panels must be installed with our 1-Piece, Tight-Fit moldings.
Laminators Incorporated provides comprehensive installation instructions on how to install our panels using our different methods. If you choose to make modifications or substitutions to Laminators’ installation instructions, you may do so at your own risk. Laminators’ Limited Warranty is predicated on following our tested and certified installation procedures. If you choose to install our panels using a method outside of the instructions provided, your warranty will be null and void.
Laminators does not have a formal certification process. However, many of our installers have been trained by a Laminators Field Service Technician. For more information on Laminators’ installers in your area, call 800-523-2347 and speak with a sales representative.
Laminators’ ACM panels should be washed periodically to keep them bright. Plain water and a clean cloth are all you need to remove ordinary dirt buildup. A mild, non-abrasive household detergent with a clean-water rinse can be used for more stubborn stains. Solvents such as alcohols, mineral spirits, naphtha, turpentine, and xylene can be applied with a soft cloth. Never soak panels in solvents.
Before starting, refer to the Owner’s Manual for the specific printer, as well as recommendations from the ink manufacturer, for any instructions pertaining to the proper preparation of panels prior to print. While all of Laminators panels are digital print ready, they must be cleaned prior to use. Remove the masking from the panel. To prep panels, use a new color-free and lint-free cloth and spray 99% isopropyl alcohol on the wipe. Clean the panel in one direction (not in a circular motion), making sure to remove all visible oils, residue, and dirt. Please refer to the Cleaning Panel section of our Sign Panel Production Guide for more information.
Laminators sells through a network of distributors across the United States and Canada. Call 800-523-2347 to learn where to purchase our sign panel products today.
Remove the masking from the panel. Refer to preparation recommendations from the paint manufacturer. To prep aluminum-faced panels, lightly scuff the face using 400-grit sandpaper. For vinyl-faced panels, use 220-grit paper. Wipe panels in one (non-circular) direction with a new color-free and lint-free cloth sprayed with 99% isopropyl alcohol to remove all visible oils, residue, and dirt. Please refer to Applying Paint section of our Sign Panel Production Guide for more information.
Laminators’ aluminum-surfaced panels are comprised of a high-gloss, factory-baked, polyester paint finish. Please use paints recommended for painting on this type of surface. Refer to our Sign Panel Production Guide for painting recommendations. Our panel surfaces are ideal for digital inks (latex, UV and solvent cured), screen print inks, automotive acrylic enamels, polyurethanes, and lacquers (some may require light scuffing with fine-grit sandpaper prior to painting). Follow paint manufacturers’ recommendations for proper application, thinning, and cure times. The panel surface must remain dry, clean, and grease-free prior to painting. Please consult with your local distributor to find the best inks and paints to use with our aluminum-surfaced panels.
We recommend performing a small paint adhesion test prior to painting. A cross-hatch test is a method for testing paint adhesion. Below is an explanation of how to perform the test.
Laminators’ vinyl-surfaced panel products are also high gloss. Please use paints recommended for painting on this type of surface. Refer to the Sign Panel Production Guide for general painting recommendations, but consult with your local distributor to find the best inks and paints to use with our vinyl-surfaced panels. Our surfaces are ideal for automotive acrylic enamels, polyurethanes, lacquers, Krylon spray paints, and vinyl inks. The surface must remain dry, clean, and grease-free prior to painting. Follow paint manufacturer’s recommendations for proper application, thinning, and cure times.
We recommend performing a small paint adhesion test prior to painting. A cross-hatch test is a method for testing paint adhesion. Below is an explanation of how to perform the test.
All you need is a good grade of masking tape and a sharp utility (or Exacto) knife. You begin by making eleven parallel cuts 1/4″ apart vertically and horizontally, about 1″ long with the utility knife over the cured paint. The end result should look similar to a “Tic-Tac-Toe” game pattern. Apply the masking tape over the scored area and press firmly. Immediately remove the tape by pulling it back upon itself at 180° in one rapid motion. Then inspect the cross hatch to see if any of the finish has pulled away with the tape from the cut area or if it is intact. There should be no removal of the paint squares.
Please refer to the “Edge Cap” section of our Sign Panel Production Guide for recommended edge seal instructions. While there are many other “industry-accepted” edge-sealing methods that may provide adequate results, we cannot recommend each alternate edge-sealing method used in the industry.
Please refer to our Sign Panel Production Guide for recommended cutting instructions and techniques.
If cleaning to prep for printing or painting, wipe the surface in one direction (not in a circular motion) with a new color-free and lint-free cloth sprayed with 99% isopropyl alcohol to remove all visible oils, residue, and dirt. Wipe again with a clean cloth or tack cloth and your surface is ready.
If cleaning after sign installation, panels should be washed periodically to keep them bright and dirt free. Consult with the manufacturer(s) of the applied (ink, vinyl, paint, etc.) graphics for cleaning recommendations—it’s good practice to test on an inconspicuous area before using on full scale.
Please refer to our Sign Panel Production Guide for recommended panel applications and installation techniques. The recommendations within the Resource Guide are general industry-accepted techniques. Please consult the local township where your sign will be installed for proper codes and ordinances required to properly install the sign.
Refer to our Colors page for available colors and/or contact us or call 800-523-2347 to request color samples.
Laminators recommends using the following adhesives and sealants for use with our sign panels:
Panel Adhesives
Loctite® PL 400® VOC Subfloor & Deck Adhesive
Loctite® PL Premium® Polyurethane Construction Adhesive
LIQUID NAILS® Subfloor & Deck Adhesive
Titebond® Heavy-Duty Construction Adhesive
Silicone Sealants (for use with corrugated plastic cores only)
Pecora 890, 860, 896, 895
GE Silglaze® II, Silpruf®
SUREBOND SB-1800 Everflex Bondaprene
Wood core Sealant
DAP® Alex Plus® Caulk
Depending on the product, the size and thickness of Laminators’ standard composite panels can be customized. We can even provide other types of face materials like fiberglass, reinforced plastic (FRP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and wood veener; or different core options that offer sound absorption properties or insulative properties. In addition, we can cut the panels to your exact dimensions or fabricate the panels by drilling holes, routing corners, adding v-grooves, etc.
Our team is very knowledgeable about our products and can assist you in determining the most appropriate product(s) based on your application and requirements. Once the product(s) are determined, we’ll need detailed specifications and/or drawings to provide a quote. Please call 800.523.2347 to start the discussion.
One of the advantages of working with Laminators Incorporated is that we don’t have order minimums. However, depending on the item(s) ordered, a set-up charge or fabrication fee may apply.
Lead time for manufacturing is 2-4 weeks for most standard panel systems. Actual lead time may vary depending on the size of the order, special materials, ship-to location, custom color orders, etc. Call 800-523-2347 for more information.
Samples of our standard products are readily available. Custom samples or prototypes can be provided but may take a bit longer. Contact a representative at 800.523.2347.
Laminators products have been tested for architectural and signage uses only. Samples are available for you to test the product for your specific application.
We require them to be in CAD format.