Epic Signs & Graphics Blog

You're not alone if you've ever tried to hang signs, artwork, or plaques on freshly painted walls, only to watch your tape fail miserably. The culprit? Low-VOC paints. While these eco-friendly paints are great for indoor air quality and sustainability, they present a real challenge when it comes to adhesion.

But don't worry; Epic Signs now uses "SecureStick", a great new solution by Repros Engineering for installing graphics on Low-VOC walls.

WHY DOES TAPE FAIL ON LOW-VOC PAINTS?

Low-VOC paints have revolutionized the painting industry, making indoor spaces safer and greener. However, this innovation comes with some frustrating side effects, especially when you're trying to use traditional adhesives. Here's why regular tape just doesn't cut it:

• Softer, More Porous Finish. Low-VOC paints contain fewer harsh chemicals, resulting in a softer surface, making it harder for adhesives to bond appropriately.
• Extended Drying & Curing Time. Even if the paint feels dry, it may still be too soft to hold the tape securely.
• Alternative Resins & Binders. The ingredients that make Low-VOC paints safer also make them less compatible with standard tapes.
• Paint Finish Matters. Matte, eggshell, and satin finishes are common in Low-VOC paints, but their textured surfaces can reduce adhesion even further.

THE GAME-CHANGER: SECURESTICK TAPE

SecureStick was engineered to apply to "hard to stick surfaces" and it also works with Low-VOC surfaces. It is designed with superior adhesion technology to ensure your graphics and signs stick and stay on your wall. Here's why SecureStick is a great solution:

• Universal Compatability. It works better on Low-VOC finishes, including matte, eggshell, and satin.
• Reliable & Long-Lasting. Adheres securely even on softer, less-cured surfaces.
• Perfect for Business & Commercial Use. It is ideal for signage, wayfinding, ADA compliance plaques, and other professional applications.
• Great for Temporary and Permanent Installations: SecureStick is perfect for applying wayfinding signs, plaques, and ADA signs to walls with Low-VOC paint surfaces, but the foam allows for better removability when new signs need to be installed.

WE UPGRADED TO SECURESTICK FOR BETTER INSTALLATION RESULTS

At Epic Signs, we don't let tape troubles slow us down! Whether we are installing signage in an office, retail space, or public building, SecureStick ensures a smooth installation experience every time.  Say goodbye to peeling and failing tape and hello to a professional, polished finish! Just remember these steps we follow to get the best results when using SecureStick and other products on Low-VOC walls:

• Allow Proper Paint Curing Time. Even if your paint feels dry, give it the full recommended curing period before applying tape.
• Use a Primer Coat. A good primer can enhance adhesion and make tape applications more reliable.
• Test Before Full Application. Always do a a small test area to ensure SecureStick meets your needs.
• Prep Your Surface. Clean, dry, and grease-free walls provide the best adhesion results.

This is why Epic Signs uses SecureStick to make your graphics stick!

If you are looking for professional graphics or signs using SecureStick, contact Epic Signs & Graphics at (440) 799-8235 or email info@EpicSignsCleveland.com. We have developed a variety of solutions to address hard-to-stick surfaces.

WHERE TO GET SECURESTICK

For more information on SecureStick, contact Repros, Inc. at 800-666-3364 x105 or email Heather.Oneil@ReprosInc.com

A local retail store was bombarded with customer complaints and confusion stemming from unclear parking rules that left drivers frustrated and unsure of where to park. Over time, their parking signs had faded due to constant exposure to sun, rain, and snow. The once-legible symbols and text were now barely readable, leading to frustrations, parking violations, and even minor accidents. After updating their parking signs, the store saw fewer complaints and a noticeable improvement in customer satisfaction. This simple change made a significant difference for the business and its patrons.

Parking signage might not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering business improvements, but it’s a detail that can make or break your customer’s experience. Epic Signs & Graphics specializes in crafting durable parking signage that is visually appealing and reflects your company's brand identity. Our expertise ensures your parking signs look professional and comply with all necessary rules and regulations for seamless navigation and enforcement. Check out the before and after photos below:

Refreshing parking signage is more important than you think—here’s why:

1. Legibility

Parking signs are exposed to harsh weather conditions year-round. Sunlight can bleach colors, rain can wash away details, and snow can cause damage, contributing to faded text and symbols. Over time, this makes signs harder to read, leading to confusion for drivers. By refreshing your wayfinding parking signage, you ensure that instructions are clear and easy to follow, preventing misunderstandings.

2. Compliance with Regulations

Rules, regulations, and parking laws change over time. For example, your city may introduce new hours of operation, restrictions, or accessibility requirements. Keeping your regulatory and handicap parking signs updated ensures they comply with current local ordinances and minimizes the risk of fines or penalties for non-compliance.

3. Safety and Clarity

Clear and visible signage ensures drivers can safely navigate your parking lot. Faded or unclear signs can lead to confusion, parking violations, and accidents. Properly maintained parking signs enhance the safety of your lot by providing unambiguous guidance to drivers and pedestrians.

4. Enforcement

For parking rules to be enforced effectively, regulatory signage must be easy to read and understand. Without clear and visible signs, issuing tickets for violations becomes challenging. Refreshing your parking signage helps maintain order in your parking area and ensures that rules are consistently followed.

5. Liability Prevention

If your parking lot lacks clear signage and an accident occurs, your business could face legal risks. This is especially true if the incident is attributed to unclear or outdated signs. Keeping your parking signs up-to-date and visible reduces liability risks and demonstrates your commitment to safety.

6. Aesthetic Appeal

Well-maintained and visually appealing branding signage reflects positively on your business. Faded or damaged signs can give the impression that your company neglects details, while fresh, clean signage creates a welcoming environment. This can enhance the customer experience, encouraging repeat visits and fostering loyalty.

Refreshing your parking signage isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a safer, smoother, and more welcoming experience for everyone who visits your business. Let the signage experts at Epic Signs & Graphics show you how updated signs can be a small investment with big returns, from keeping up with regulations to reducing liability risks and enhancing your brand’s appeal. Don’t let faded signs be the first thing customers notice—revitalize your parking lot today and let your signage speak volumes about your attention to detail and care for your patrons.

For more information, contact Lou Laguardia at lou.laguardia@reprosinc.com.