Currently, two types of retro-reflective sign vinyl films meet the government standards for visibility — glass bead retro-reflective vinyl films and prismatic retro-reflective vinyl films. Although they look similar, they can behave differently.
Reflectivity is the amount of light something reflects. Glass bead retro-reflective material has high reflectivity thanks to the microscopic glass spheres embedded in the surface of the material.
Glass bead vinyl is an affordable product with many practical applications. However, one drawback is that this vinyl performs slightly worse when conditions are wet. Water can cause it to lose some reflectivity, meaning dreary weather can create an issue at times when the need for visibility is highest.
In dry conditions, the glass beads reflect light back to approaching motorists. When they're wet, the water interferes with the beads' reflective optics and scatters the light instead. You can still use this type of vinyl in outdoor or vehicle applications, but you might want to be careful with your placement.
Prismatic retro-reflective material (PRM) contains thousands of micro-prisms protected by a transparent plastic film.
PRM does have some drawbacks, though. The material is heavier than glass bead vinyl, and it stiffens in cold conditions. PRM is also a more brittle material, and you have to keep this in mind during application. Avoid laying PRM in cold weather, or you might notice that it adheres less easily than you expected.
Reflective sheeting helps ensure road traffic signs are visible in the dark to improve motorist safety. We offer retroreflective sheeting rolls in several colors, patterns, and widths. Choose between engineering grade, high intensity grade, and diamond grade reflective sheeting options.
These high visibility, durable products resist fading and are suitable for all weather conditions. Tape and sheeting materials are easy to cut to length for application on a variety of traffic control device substrates. Apply striped tapes to specialty plastic sheets then nail or screw to wood boards as necessary. Non-reflective caution tape is an essential for construction sites and general safety applications.
