Why Do Vinyl Graphics Shrink?

In the wrap industry, Dimensional Stability is the technical term for a film’s ability to keep its original size and shape. When a vinyl has poor stability, it "pulls back," leading to the most common cause of wrap failure: shrinkage.

The Cause: Built-In Tension

Dimensional stability is determined the moment the vinyl is made.

• High Stability: Cast vinyl is poured as a liquid. It has no "stress" and doesn't want to change shape.

• Low Stability: Calendered vinyl is stretched through rollers. It is essentially a giant, frozen rubber band. Over time, heat and UV exposure "unfreeze" it, and it tries to shrink back to its original, smaller state.

The Result: The "Dirt Neck"

When vinyl shrinks, the adhesive doesn't move with it. This leaves a sticky residue exposed at the edges.

• The Problem: Dirt and road grime stick to this exposed glue.

• The Look: A black, ugly ring forms around the graphic, often called a "dirt neck."

How to Maintain Stability

1. Match the Material: Use high-stability Cast films for anything with curves or long-term outdoor exposure.

2. Outgas Properly: If printing with solvent inks, wait 24 hours before laminating. Trapped solvents "soften" the vinyl, making it lose its stability and pull back prematurely.

3. Avoid Over-Stretching: Even the best Cast vinyl will lose stability if you stretch it beyond its limit without proper post-heating.