Before you choose a laminator, there are several factors you should consider. From the size of the document you wish to laminate, to its rigidity to the touch, to the smoothness of the finish. Also keep in mind, it's not just about the items you will laminate now, but also about the things you may want to laminate as your needs or business grows. Here is a quick list of important factors to review prior to making your ultimate decision:

1)What Size Materials Do You Typically Laminate?

A laminator is an investment, and making sure you get the greatest amount of flexibility gives you the most for you money. Choose a laminator that has a capacity for materials larger than you think you'll need - and it will grow with you. You may start small, but chances are, your needs will change, so be ready for this before it becomes a necessity.

2)What is the Thickness or Rigidity You will Need for your Materials?

Very thick or very rigid materials require a machine with higher specifications, able to handle pouches up to 500 microns. The wrong laminator will not be able to handle these types of thicknesses, and will fail as a result. Make sure you have a good idea of your current and future rigidity and thickness needs and that your laminator can perform under these circumstances.

3)Do You Need a Perfect Finish?

If properly executed, hot laminating improves the appearance of the laminated items and makes them cleaner and brighter. To ensure the best finish, you should choose a laminator with variable speed or heat and make sure the pouch you use is a proper thickness for your laminator. If you choose the correct laminator, your finish will be perfect every time.

4)Do You Need to Do a Great Deal of Laminating Quickly?

If your laminator is used only occasionally, then you may be well advised to choose a lower spec machine. If the laminator is used daily, you should make the investment in a machine with higher specs and a higher price tag. These laminators are usually more reliable and have quicker lamination speeds. If your volume is very large, you may consider a roll laminator, as they are much quicker than pouch lamination machines.

5)What Will You be Laminating?

Every document or material has a different tolerance to every laminator. Whe laminating sensitive materials, such as older documents or antique photographs, you should definitely consider choosing a laminator with higher specifications to ensure safety and preservation. If the items are not as sensitive, you may be able to purchase a laminator with lower specifications. Just be sure you understand your long term needs before making the call. Whether you choose heat or cold, hand lamination, high or low specifications, large or small format laminators, there are enough styles, varieties and finishes of lamination machines that you should be able to find the right laminator for your personal needs and the needs of your business.

Lamination if a critical preservation process, and as such, choosing a lamination machine should be done carefully, reviewing all of the factors and facts regarding every style and brand. Do this, and you will end up with the equipment that you need for now and for the future.