Laminating sheets are used by numerous professions to protect and preserve documents, reports, presentations, papers, identification, menus, certificates, pictures and more. In addition, businesses of all types often use laminated plastic sheets to cover handouts or presentations. For example, teachers often use laminate sheets for wall signs and restaurants will often laminate their menus. Lamination sheets are a clear plastic covering which create a water and damage proof surface for any document protecting against spills, tears and rips. Laminating sheets can be glossy or dull and can be written on with a dry erase maker to make notes during presentations or when teaching.
There are various types and sizes of laminate sheets. For example, laminated sheets can protect large papers and presentations or can cover small items such as a driver’s license or library card. Furthermore, these sheets can range in size from 2” x 4” to 9′ x 12′ inches or larger. In addition, laminate sheets can range in thickness from .04 mm to 8mm depending on the quality of lamination one desires. A quality laminate sheet will also prevent fading and yellowing of documents. Lamination can also be done on one side or two sided and there are numerous types of lamination sheets including; polyester, polypropylene, nylon layflat, super stick, and glueable stampable.
One can purchase a laminator machine or can also buy self adhesive laminator sheets or pouches. The self adhesive sheets or pouches use a peel and seal method which will allow one to reposition documents and seal and unseal up until a 24 hour time period. In addition, the self seal laminating sheets do not require any investment in a laminator system and are ideal for heat sensitive materials. However, self laminating with a peel and seal method can lead to mistakes if not done properly. Self adhesive laminating sheets are usually inexpensive and can be easy to use. They can normally be purchased in a pack of 5-10 sheets.
On the other hand, a laminator machine can be more expensive but makes it easier to laminate larger documents such as; banners, signs and posters. A laminator system uses heat to seal the laminator sheet to the document rather than the hand peel and seal method. They are normally easy to use, however lamination is permanent once the document is placed through the system. Lamination machines work similar to a computer printer. They use a cartridge which needs to be refilled once the ink runs out.
Laminating sheets and laminating machines can be found on-line or in many stores. If interested in purchasing laminate sheets, try to research the different qualities, sizes, prices and thickness of various brands and types. Some sheets may be cheaper than others, but upon further review one may notice that the thickness and of the sheet is not what is needed. Another thing to keep in mind is that even a heavy duty paper shredder can bind and jam if the laminate sheets are too thick. There will normally be on-line reviews of the sheets or systems as well. Laminate sheets are a good protector against the elements and can be used for almost any type of documents.
