Outdoor Labels

Thinking of using barcodes outdoors - in the wind, rain and cold of the New Zealand summer, here's our guide to making your labels last. Not all labels are created equal and some will last longer than others.  In this article you'll find out what you need to have your labels read perfectly years into the future.

​First - the weather is not your friend, when it comes to long-lasting labels.  Ice, rain and more significantly the sun can slowly destroy your labels.​  The ultra violet rays of the sun make the label brittle and can fade the image on the labels.  Label makers seldom guarantee their labels against weather effects.  Most will only rate their labels for up to a few years - not willing to be held liable for years into the future, so although labels may last a few years no one (even us) are prepared to make a commitment.  With labels there is a trade off between cost and durability however.  The shorter the life of the label and it's durability means it's price will be lower. 

Label 'Face Stock'

Labels are made from a face stock (typically paper - but often plastic - the bit of the label that is printed on) and adhesive on a backing paper.  Paper labels are the lowest cost labels and give the lowest protection from the elements. 

For waterproof labels - realistically the lowest requirement for an outdoor label - a plastic label is the starting point.  Plastic labels are made from different types of plastic each with different properties.  Polyolefin is the starting point for labels.  Waterproof but not a lot else.  Modest scratch resistance but only rated for outdoor use for up to 6 months.  ​Polypropylene labels are more durable - with a higher resistance to scratching and solvents.  Outdoors, these labels are rated for up to 3 years.  Acrylic labels can offer up to ten years outdoor use.  They are scratch resistant and waterproof.  ​

Adhesives

With a durable label you need to consider what glue you need.​  Rubber based glues do not perform well in sunshine, so an acrylic based label adhesive would be a better choice.  Obviously water based adhesive isn't going to last. 

Metal Labels

At the top of the range, the most durable labels ​are metal labels.  The metal labels we supply are tested and last over twenty years.  They survive baking in an oven with only slight dulling of the image.  In fact they are so durable the technology is used on the outside of the International space station.  It's chemical resistant and capable of withstanding rubbing and abrasion.  They are usually printed with a black image(although they can be printed in multiple colours) that is coated with an extremely durable coating - giving it it's protective qualities.  Obviously metal labels are more expensive that plastic, but you have to factor in the cost of reprinting and replacing damaged labels into the cost comparison.  Metal labels come with a range of adhesives to match the surface they are use on.  For the ultimate fixing power, you can order them with holes drilled in them so you can screw or rivet them into place.

So if you think you need labels to last more than 20 years outdoors then metal is the best recommendation.  If you need labels to last ten years then we have a plastic label to suit.

For a quote and further advice, email info@barcodeproducts.co.nz.

Return to the label page here.