FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Duraluxe aluminium panels — finishes, durability, installation and print quality.
What makes Duraluxe panels anti-graffiti?
The special formulation of our powders makes Duraluxe panels impenetrable to external pollutants such as dirt and permanent markers or inks. Where ordinary sublimation panels would stain or blotch, panels with Duraluxe anti-graffiti / UV-resistant properties clean easily with no traces of pollutants.
Can I use Duraluxe panels for exterior signage anywhere?
Yes. Duraluxe panels are specially formulated to withstand the elements and the power of the sun, regardless of location, so your images look great for a long time. We offer a 5-year outdoor warranty (Glossy, Matte, Satin and Canvas).
Are Duraluxe panels the best for outdoor applications?
Without a doubt. Our powder coating is specially formulated to outlast every other sublimatable panel in the world.
Can I get a custom size?
Our panels start at a minimum of 3"×8" and go up to 48"×96". We offer many standard sizes and can customise a size when needed — just ask.
Is glossy the only finish available?
Not at all. Our standard finishes are Glossy, Matte and Canvas (texture). Special finishes are Salt Lake, Glow in the Dark, WallSky, Ice Touch and Satin.
What is the Salt Lake finish?
Salt Lake is a proprietary powder coating that creates a random ripple effect across the surface of the panel — reminiscent of the Great Salt Lake of Utah.
What is Ice Touch?
Ice Touch is a special finish that makes the panel feel super smooth to the touch, with exceptionally deep blacks.
How do I clean marker or scribble off a panel?
One of the beauties of Duraluxe is its anti-graffiti quality. You can use etasol / MEK (paint thinner) and your image will look beautiful again.
How do I clean acrylic spray from a panel?
You can remove any trace of acrylic spray using ethyl alcohol — your panels will look like the first day you got them.
What detail can I see in a design on a Duraluxe panel?
Clarity depends on your source image. Think of a Duraluxe panel like a 4K television and your file as the program: a 4K file shows in stunning detail; a lower-quality file shows as such. Duraluxe are high-definition panels — use them properly and the results will amaze you.
My sublimated image looks spotty. Why?
Sublimation transfers inks into the powder coating, so it needs a clean, dry surface. Spotting is usually caused by dust — always clean and fully dry panels before sublimation.
What file type should I use?
You can use JPG, TIFF or another graphic format — but check first with the retailer processing your panels. The quality of the file is very important for a quality final product.
What resolution or DPI is best?
In general, the optimal resolution is 180 DPI or higher.
Paper or Duraluxe for my photos?
Aesthetically it's a matter of taste, but on durability there's no contest: images last far longer on Duraluxe than on paper — at least double, if not much more. None of the top archival photo papers come close.
Can I make an outdoor sign with a logo and menu?
Absolutely, yes.
My building has strict colour and font guidelines for signage — can Duraluxe meet them?
Of course — there are many options to choose from for this application.
Are Duraluxe panels suitable for shower walls?
Yes. Duraluxe aluminium has zero absorption, is lightweight and installs quickly. Use silicone or an epoxy adhesive; if trowelling adhesive, use a 1/16" square-notch trowel. We recommend expansion / movement joints.
Can I cover existing tiles with Duraluxe?
Absolutely. You don't need to remove the tiles, but the surface must be flat and level — you can level with tile adhesive kept as thin as possible. Panels are 1.2 mm (0.047") thick, so the receiving surface must be smooth and flat.
Can I use Duraluxe as a floor covering?
Yes. For semi-permanent applications you can use carpet tape.
A panel on my façade was damaged — can it be replaced?
Absolutely. The professional who prepared your panels should have the original files and can re-print the damaged area. Prepare a few samples first for colour matching, depending on the age of your panels.
Can I clad an external building façade with Duraluxe?
Yes. If adhering directly to exterior walls you need a very clean, flat surface — we recommend a ventilated façade.
Are Duraluxe panels bendable after sublimation?
Yes — they can easily be bent by hand at room temperature.
Will Duraluxe withstand salt corrosion near the ocean?
Yes. Unlike other sublimation panels, Duraluxe is tested for salt corrosion — Seaside & Quali-Marine approved (7-stage chrome-free pre-treatment). It withstands over 4000 hours of salt-spray testing, equal to more than 10 years in an extreme corrosive environment.
Is Duraluxe antimicrobial?
One of our special finishes is antimicrobial. Tested by an independent laboratory in Japan, it eliminates 99.9% of staphylococcus bacteria and all major microbes — even after 10 years.
What coating is used — are the panels VOC-free?
We only use water-based inks and powders. All powder coatings are VOC-free and TGIC-free.
What makes Duraluxe different from other metal panels?
Duraluxe was created from over 20 years of experience in powder coating and decoration. Unlike other metal panels, Duraluxe is scratch resistant, anti-graffiti and bendable.
Can I use Duraluxe for a 12-month outdoor exhibition?
Yes — you can leave your images outdoors for over 5 years.
Duraluxe offers a 5-year outdoor warranty — can I see the tests?
Yes. See the test results on our UV Resistant page under Advantages.
Still have a question?
We're happy to help with sizing, finishes or your specific project.
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