Wide Format Printing in Burnaby & Vancouver: Materials, Methods & Expert Tips
Why Wide Format Printing Success Depends on More Than Design
Many businesses assume that great wide format graphics are all about design. In reality, the difference between a graphic that looks great for years and one that peels in six months usually comes down to:
Material selection
Proper file setup
Environmental planning
Professional installation
Understanding these factors before production begins can significantly reduce costs, prevent reprints, and extend the life of your signage.
At Westkey Xibita, we train our team to focus on planning first - because being smart before you start leads to better long-term results for every signage or display project.
Start With the Surface
Choosing materials after the design is complete is one of the most common (and costly) mistakes in wide format printing. Before printing begins, make sure you confirm the following:
Surface type: glass, drywall, brick, concrete, or metal
Environment: indoor vs. outdoor exposure, moisture, and sunlight
Duration: temporary promotion or permanent branding
Installation season: winter temperatures vs. summer heat
Purpose: branding, regulatory signage, privacy film, or light control
Answering these questions early ensures the correct vinyl, laminate, adhesive, and substrate are selected from the start.
File Setup for Large Format Printing: Resolution, Colour & Structure
Wide format printing is not simply small printing scaled up. Large graphics are viewed from a distance, meaning resolution and colour preparation must be handled differently.
Professional file setup guidelines
Minimum 100 DPI at final print size
Provide vector logos for sharp scaling
Submit artwork in CMYK colour mode
Separate white ink or Pantone layers when printing on clear or matching strict brand colours
Keep files layered, labelled, and organized
Low-resolution images often look sharp on screens but appear pixelated or blurry when printed 8 - 12 feet wide. Proper DPI is critical to achieving professional results.
Vancouver Weather & Durability: Planning for Rain, UV, and Temperature
Outdoor signage in the Lower Mainland must withstand constant moisture, UV exposure, and seasonal temperature swings. Here are some tips on how to extend the lifespan of outdoor graphics in our region:
Apply protective laminate for sunlight and moisture resistance
Install exterior vinyl only when temperatures remain above 10 °C for at least 8 hours
Use edge sealing on perforated window vinyl
Avoid contour cutting perforated film, which can lead to peeling
Choose durable rigid substrates like Sintra, Dibond, or aluminum for long-term outdoor signage
Small production choices can dramatically increase sign longevity and return on investment.
Professional Signage Installation: Why It Matters
Even the highest-quality print can fail without proper installation - that's why correct preparation and certified installers are essential for adhesion, alignment, and long-term durability. Here are a few key details to confirm before installation:
Exact installation address
Site access, working height, and power availability
Window mullions or structural obstructions
Property management or timing restrictions
Working with experienced, 3M-certified installers ensures surfaces are cleaned, edges are sealed, and graphics are applied correctly the first time.
Common Wide Format Printing Applications in Burnaby & Vancouver
Businesses across Metro Vancouver rely on wide format printing for:
Retail promotions and mall campaign signage
Each application requires specific materials, finishes, and mounting methods. For example:
Construction hoarding often benefits from anti-graffiti laminate
Temporary outdoor signage commonly uses Coroplast
Indoor presentation boards achieve cleaner results with Foamcore
Selecting the right combination improves appearance, durability, and cost efficiency.
Final Thoughts: Smart Planning Creates Better Wide Format Results
Wide format printing isn’t just “big printing” - it’s the result of material science, technical file preparation, and expert installation working together. When all these elements align, your graphics will:
Look sharper
Last longer
Deliver better long-term value
If you're planning a signage, display, or branding project in Burnaby or Vancouver, starting with the right specifications makes all the difference.
Connect with Westkey Xibita to discuss your project or book a facility tour - we’re here to help you print smarter from the start.
