You've probably heard about both overlays and laminates for ID cards but may be uncertain when to use either. Let's take a quick look at common scenarios for using both.
What is an overlay?
An overlay differs from a laminate as it's a thin panel that's part of your ID card printer's ribbon. It actually gets printed on the top of your card to protect the printing from getting smudged or damaged. It doesn't protect the card itself but keeps the printed material on the card protected from getting scratched or harmed by UV sunlight.
So while an overlay will protect the printing on your employee or student ID cards from fading and basic wear and tear, it doesn't extend the life of your ID cards.
If your ID cardholders leave their cards in the sun on the dashboard of their cars or if the print wears off as they pull their cards out of their pockets, an overlay would be a great layer of protection to keep the printing on cards pristine.
However, if you find you're replacing ID cards frequently because of wear and tear, you need the protection of a laminate.
What is a laminate?
A laminate is a separate module on your ID card printer. It's a clear protective film layer that's applied by heat during the printing process. Lamination seals the surface of your ID cards to protect them from harsh conditions. So if your cardholders spend time on construction sites or other outdoor situations, if they expose their cards to the elements, chemicals, or dirt and debris from a manufacturing facility, laminated cards can extend the lives of your ID cards.
Also, if cardholders swipe ID cards frequently through readers, lamination adds an extra layer against normal wear and tear and abrasions. More importantly, lamination can add more security to your cards in the form of holographic designs imprinted into the film. Laminated holographic images are impossible to tamper with, adding an extra layer of security.
The drawback with lamination is you need a special module for your ID card printer. Lamination is an extra step in addition to the regular printing process. And you also need special cards that can withstand the heat from the laminating process.
Final thoughts
An overlay is a thin treatment that occurs during the normal printing process and can protect the printing on your card from sunlight and wear and tear. If you want to protect the entire card from heavy use, exposure, and the elements, the thicker lamination film is your best bet.
A common situation that cardholders encounter is the printing on their ID cards sticking to the plastic of an ID badge holder. You've no doubt seen badges where the printing lifts off the card and adheres to the inside of the plastic card holder. This won't happen with either overlays or lamination.
Choosing between an overlay and lamination comes down to the severity of the wear and tear on your cards and how often you must reissue cards. If you need to prolong your ID cards solution, you may need lamination, which is more durable than the overlay.
If you're not sure which option makes the most sense for your ID card solution, contact an Idesco ID Expert. We have over 75 years of experience helping companies just like you create efficient, secure, and effective ID card systems with the longest lifespan possible. Especially if your work environment includes outdoor elements, multiple use scenarios, or harsh chemicals, we can help you protect your investment in employee ID cards. We'll help you weigh the costs of using an overlay compared to lamination and arrive at the best solution to optimize your budget, security needs, and expectations. And remember, Idesco offers a price match guarantee so you know you're getting the best price on overlays and laminates.