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FAQ
Find answers to our most Frequently Asked Questions
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Why not vinyl?Vinyl printing has notable drawbacks including difficulty adhering to textured surfaces, susceptibility to damage, and fading due to moisture and sunlight. It's costly, environmentally unfriendly, and challenging to remove without damaging underlying paint. Conversely, wallprinting can be applied to any textured surface, is damage-resistant, and not affected by environmental conditions. It's cost-effective, eco-friendly, and easy to remove with two coats of paint or primer. An analogy we use is that vinyl is what a sticker is compared to a tattoo. A sticker is obviously temporary, has an obvious border, and doesn't do well with texture. Like a tattoo, our wall prints easily support texture and can integrate design considerations that would otherwise be impossible with vinyl (drop shadows, etc). ...and it just looks way cooler we promise!
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What can you print on?Your options are virtually endless. If it's a vertical surface (i.e. walls) we can most likely print on it. Drywall (yes, even textured), glass, wood, brick, tile-our printer can handle it! We use a very resistant, plastic-like UV ink that hardens immediately under the integrated UV curing lamps and can be used on almost all substrates. Thus, plaster, wallpaper, wood, brick, latex paints, stone, clinker, plastic, metal, glass, most tiles and many other materials can be printed without any problems. Even natural stone, clinker or rough plaster can be printed without problems up to a contour depth of approx. 10 mm.
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Does it matter what color my wall/surface is?Nope! We can either use the color of the wall or lay a layer of white ink as part of the printing process. The ideal wall color is white, but we can even print on dark black!
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How big are the images you can create?Printing height: The vertical axis is extremely flexible as it can be extended in 10 cm increments. The lowest ceiling height for using the wallPen is 1.7 m (5 ft 6" ). After that, the axis can optionally be extended up to 4 m (13 ft) print height in 10 cm (4 in) increments. Print width: unlimited Due to the limitations of inkjet technology, there are margins in corners to adjacent walls, floor and ceiling. These are 6 cm (2.3″) on the left, 10 cm (3.3″) on the right, 25 cm (9.8″) on the top, and 25 cm (9.8″) on the bottom.
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Can you print edge-to-edge or corner-to-corner?Unfortunately, due to the nature of the printer and the offset of the robotic wheels and track from the print head, we cannot print edge-to-edge or guarantee full coverage of a wall surface. Our vertical print margins start at about 13 inches from the floor, up to 13 inches from a ceiling or the maximum tower extension, whichever comes first. For horizontal margins, if we are printing from one wall to another wall, we usually recommend a minimum 20 inch margin from each wall corner in order to safely print. If there are no corners (such as printing in an open hallway) or only a single corner (starting or ending near a wall) then there are only 3 inch margins needed for the print.
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Are the prints damage resistant?Yes! Our prints are completely damage resistant. Unlike Vinyl, which is a layer of plastic that gets adhered to the wall and will start to peel away from any nicks, cuts, or dings that get put into the surface of the wrap, our special UV ink is cured directly onto the surface of the wall. Any damage to the wall does not degrade the quality of the print whatsoever, and results in no lasting damage to the overall print. No peeling, warping, or bubbles! The wallprinting process does not prevent damage from occurring on your wall, any significant damage to the surface of the wall will transfer to the print. But this damage will not compromise the integrity of the rest of the printed surface.
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What if there are obstacles on the wall (plugs, switches, etc)?Each wall is unique, and the specific layout of your wall and any obstacles in the way - such as light switches, plugs, internet jacks, electrical panels, cracks or damage, windows, etc. will all take a unique approach. Generally speaking, we can either design around the obstacles on the wall, or if we have access to your space's electrical box, we will shut off power and safely remove the switches and outlets, taping over the holes to make a uniform approach. Or, if your building has a maintenance crew, then we would request their help to temporarily remove those obstacles if they are available. If we cannot safely remove any obstacles, then we will be required to design around them, such as decreasing the print size or breaking the design up into separate pieces.
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How long does the printer take to print?Our process is incredibly quick, with same-day printing services available. We've started our design work, visited the printing site, done our measurements, set up the printer, printed the design, and packed up in just a few hours! Depending on the print specifics, it can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours per 50 sq feet.
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What kind of ink does it use?Specially formulated, plastic-like, low-odor wallPen UV ink. Given the nature of the ink we're able to print without having to worry about ventilation or operating after hours. The smell is extremely negligible.
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How long does it take to dry?Immediately! Given the UV-curing process, once the print head has passed the image is completely dry and able to be touched.
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Can you print on outside walls/surfaces?Absolutely! We would recommend applying a UV protectant-which also protects against vandalism/graffiti removal. With the use of the UV-protectant and our application services, the work is warrantied for up to 15 years.
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Can I remove a wall print and re-print?Of course! On glass with a ceramic hob scraper or razor blade. Otherwise, a print can always be painted over in two or three layers. Only on wood must be sanded or - as with metal or concrete - sandblasting or glass bead blasting. We're happy to provide painting services should you be interested in a new concept!
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How much does something like this cost?We have worked to provide an easy to consume pricing model: $25 per sqft to print! If you know what you want to print (already have an image or concept in mind), no design cost is associated with the print. If you require something custom, like the development of a logo or a unique mural design, we would require an additional design fee.
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Why haven't I heard of this technology before?Wall printing is relatively new (~2015)! Here in Colorado, Elevated Ink works is thee premier business associated with this technology.
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Why should I decide to work with Elevated Ink Works?At Elevated Ink Works, we take immense pride in being a family-owned business nestled in the heart of Castle Rock, Colorado. Choosing us means selecting more than just a service; it means becoming a part of our community and experiencing the personalized touch that only a family-run establishment can provide. Here are a few compelling reasons why you should choose Elevated Ink Works: 1. Local Commitment: We're not just a business; we're neighbors invested in the success and vibrancy of Castle Rock. By choosing us, you support a local enterprise that actively contributes to the growth and well-being of our community. 2. Personalized Service: As a family-owned operation, we understand the importance of personalized attention. When you choose Elevated Ink Works, you're not just a customer; you're a valued member of our extended family. Expect tailored solutions and a level of care that goes beyond the transaction. 3. Craftsmanship: Our commitment to quality craftsmanship sets us apart. Whether it's custom printing, design services, or any of our other offerings, we bring a meticulous attention to detail that reflects the pride we take in our work. Your satisfaction is our top priority. 4. Community Engagement: We believe in giving back. By choosing Elevated Ink Works, you support a business that actively participates in local initiatives and community events. We're dedicated to fostering a strong and connected Castle Rock. In summary, when you choose Elevated Ink Works, you're not just choosing a service provider; you're choosing a local partner invested in the success and well-being of Castle Rock. Experience the difference of a family-owned business that values community, personalized service, and a tradition of excellence.
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Isn't this taking away jobs from "real" artists?Art comes in MANY mediums-not just from a paintbrush! Graphic designers aren't stealing jobs from "real" artists; they're navigating a digital frontier. Both fields share artistic roots, but graphic design adapts traditional skills to a modern, commercial context. Designers create visual solutions, translating complex ideas into accessible forms. They enhance communication for businesses, making information visually compelling. Rather than a threat, this specialization complements the broader artistic landscape. Artists and designers contribute uniquely to the visual realm, each enriching our culture in their distinct ways. Embracing both ensures a diverse and dynamic creative ecosystem where traditional and contemporary artistry coexist and flourish.
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What areas do we service?Colorado! We currently don't limit ourselves to any specific geography as long as it's in Colorado. This is subject to change as we grow our business, but for now, we WANT to come to you!
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