Durability of Different Outdoor Photo for Memorial Plaques

When choosing a memorial plaque, it’s important to consider the durability of the printing method, especially if the plaque will be displayed outdoors. At MyForeverMemories.com, we offer a variety of printing options, each with its own set of benefits and considerations.

Sublimation Printing

Sublimation printing provides vibrant and detailed images, making it a popular choice for indoor memorials. However, it is not recommended for outdoor use. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the colors to fade due to UV rays, affecting the longevity and appearance of the plaque.

Sand-Carved Photos

For outdoor memorials, we recommend sand-carved photos. This method involves carving the image directly into the surface of the plaque, providing excellent durability against the elements. Sand-carved plaques maintain their integrity and appearance even after years of exposure to sunlight, rain, and varying temperatures.

Ceramic Printing

Ceramic printing, which includes porcelain photos, is another durable option for memorial plaques, especially suitable for outdoor use. This method involves printing the image on ceramic materials, which are then fired in a kiln. The high-temperature firing process ensures that the image becomes part of the ceramic surface, providing excellent resistance to weathering and UV rays.

Combining Porcelain Photos with Granite

For those who want to combine the beauty of color photos with the durability of granite, we offer the option to place a porcelain photo on top of a granite plaque. This allows you to have vibrant, full-color images of your beloved pet, while the granite provides a sturdy base with sand-carved letters for the name and inscription. This combination ensures that your pet's memorial is both visually stunning and enduring.

Torch Test for Durability

To ensure the durability of our ceramic-printed plaques, we perform rigorous tests, including a torch test. This involves exposing the ceramic plaque to intense heat to simulate prolonged exposure to sunlight and other environmental factors. The torch test helps us guarantee that our ceramic plaques will maintain their appearance and integrity over time, even in harsh outdoor conditions.

Cautionary Note for Customers

While many of our products are designed to withstand indoor conditions, we caution customers about placing sublimation-printed plaques outdoors. The UV rays from the sun can cause significant fading over time, diminishing the plaque's visual quality. For those needing a more durable option for outdoor settings, our sand-carved and ceramic plaques are reliable alternatives.

Conclusion

Choosing the right memorial plaque is a meaningful decision, and understanding the durability of different printing methods can help you make an informed choice. Whether you opt for the vibrant detail of sublimation printing for an indoor setting, the rugged durability of sand-carved photos, or the beautiful combination of porcelain photos on granite for an outdoor tribute, MyForeverMemories.com is committed to providing high-quality products that honor the memory of your loved ones.

For more information or to browse our selection of memorial plaques, visit our website. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us – we’re here to help you find the perfect way to preserve your cherished memories.