Prepress Guidelines

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Production

Maintenance

Shipping

Pricing & Payment

 

Lost? Our FAQ path will show you the way.

About ALTO™

Dye Sublimation

Powder Coating

Panels

Hardware

How much is shipping?

Shipping is based on the size and weight of your order and is based on standard postal or courier rates; expedited shipping is available upon request. Our logistics expert will find the best available rates for your region.



Where do you ship to?

We can ship FOB everywhere in US & Canada on daily basis. We also ship internationally.



How do you pack ALTO™ panels for shipping?

We ensure that your panels are well protected when we package your order.



My package arrived and it is damaged. What do I do?

Do not sign for damaged packaging as we will not be able to make a claim for you with the shipping company if it signed.



 

How much is shipping?

Shipping is based on the size and weight of your order and is based on standard postal or courier rates; expedited shipping is available upon request. Our logistics expert will find the best available rates for your region.



Where do you ship to?

We can ship FOB everywhere in US & Canada on daily basis. We also ship internationally.



How do you pack ALTO™ panels for shipping?

We ensure that your panels are well protected when we package your order.



My package arrived and it is damaged. What do I do?

Do not sign for damaged packaging as we will not be able to make a claim for you with the shipping company if it signed.



DYE SUBLIMATION

 

What can I put on the panels?

Anything you want! As long as the resolution is 300 dpi, we can print and sublimate it!



What can an ALTO™ panel replace?

ALTO™ products can be used to replace or replicate organic materials, as they can be sublimated to resemble different types of wood, marble, stone, and even multiple types of metal (treated, weathered, manufactured, Corten, etc.).



Can I put ALTO™ in hot climates?

Absolutely! All the graphics are embedded in a UV-resistant powder coat. We have
several projects that have been installed for years in Florida, Asia and South
America.



Can I put ALTO™ panels in cold climate?

One of the most important properties of aluminum is how well it performs in cold weather. In fact, aluminum strengthens when the temperature drops, unlike other materials that become brittle. We have several ALTO™ projects installed in Alaska & The Canadian Rocky Mountains.



What sizes do you offer?

The largest single flat panel we can sublimate is 4’ x 8’ 6” (48” x 102” or 1219.2 mm x 2590.8 mm). For larger format projects like murals, panels can be expertly aligned to achieve desired size.



What is the thickness of the panel?

Standard panels are 1/8” (0.3175 cm) thick. Though this may seem too thin, it is incredibly sturdy. It is extremely hard to bend, while at the same time being lightweight and easy to handle. Other panel thicknesses are available. Prices vary based on market value of aluminum.



Are the edges and corners finished?

Standard corners have eased edges with approximately 1/8" radius for inside corners. Custom corner radius available upon request.



How are edges finished?

All edges are sanded smooth for safety. The graphic image covers the entire surface and wraps around the edges for a professional finish. Note: Image will cover the entire flat surface of a panel and the edges (up to a 7” return, please check with your representative), except in the case of round panels (ex. tables).



What do the backs of the panel look like?

We offer various options: - Unfinished backs (A mix of aluminum and excess powder coating) - Masked back (raw aluminum) - White Powder Coated back - Double-sided: Both sides sublimated of the panel (panel max. 24 x 36”). - Double-sided perforated panels: Both sides sublimated (panel max 4’x 8’ 6”). - Two separate panels attached by acrylic structural adhesive. (panel max 4 x 8’). Important note: As panels must be hung to be powder-coated, we require either a hole or a temporary stud that we remove afterwards. It is important to coordinate with your SH project manager to ensure that the holes or marks left by our temporary studs are covered by your mounting brackets/posts or frames.



What powder coat base colors do you offer?

Our standard powder coat base is white because it results in super vivid colors after the graphic is sublimated. Note: white areas in your graphic will be the same white as the base coat, as we do not print and sublimate white. We also have a chrome, gold and bronze base coat for a metallic finish. With this finish, colors will appear slightly muted. White areas in the graphic will result in a chrome field in the finished product.



Can a panel be curved?

We can curve panels to a maximum radius of 4”. Please check with an expert to see if your curved project is possible.



What if I need a thicker profile for my sign or panel?

We can easily put an ALTO™ panel onto a Sintra (exterior) or MDF (interior) backer if you require a thicker panel.



What finishes are available?

We use a fine matte texture that offers optimal scratch resistance and reduces glare. Other finishes, such as glossy and super matte, may be available depending on project details.



Do panels come in custom shapes?

We offer a variety of custom shapes and cut-outs. Some limitations apply. For example, inside bends and interior edges on cut-outs are difficult or impossible to sublimate.



POWDER COATING

 

What can I put on the panels?

Anything you want! As long as the resolution is 300 dpi, we can print and sublimate it!



What can an ALTO™ panel replace?

ALTO™ products can be used to replace or replicate organic materials, as they can be sublimated to resemble different types of wood, marble, stone, and even multiple types of metal (treated, weathered, manufactured, Corten, etc.).



Can I put ALTO™ in hot climates?

Absolutely! All the graphics are embedded in a UV-resistant powder coat. We have
several projects that have been installed for years in Florida, Asia and South
America.



Can I put ALTO™ panels in cold climate?

One of the most important properties of aluminum is how well it performs in cold weather. In fact, aluminum strengthens when the temperature drops, unlike other materials that become brittle. We have several ALTO™ projects installed in Alaska & The Canadian Rocky Mountains.



What sizes do you offer?

The largest single flat panel we can sublimate is 4’ x 8’ 6” (48” x 102” or 1219.2 mm x 2590.8 mm). For larger format projects like murals, panels can be expertly aligned to achieve desired size.



What is the thickness of the panel?

Standard panels are 1/8” (0.3175 cm) thick. Though this may seem too thin, it is incredibly sturdy. It is extremely hard to bend, while at the same time being lightweight and easy to handle. Other panel thicknesses are available. Prices vary based on market value of aluminum.



Are the edges and corners finished?

Standard corners have eased edges with approximately 1/8" radius for inside corners. Custom corner radius available upon request.



How are edges finished?

All edges are sanded smooth for safety. The graphic image covers the entire surface and wraps around the edges for a professional finish. Note: Image will cover the entire flat surface of a panel and the edges (up to a 7” return, please check with your representative), except in the case of round panels (ex. tables).



What do the backs of the panel look like?

We offer various options: - Unfinished backs (A mix of aluminum and excess powder coating) - Masked back (raw aluminum) - White Powder Coated back - Double-sided: Both sides sublimated of the panel (panel max. 24 x 36”). - Double-sided perforated panels: Both sides sublimated (panel max 4’x 8’ 6”). - Two separate panels attached by acrylic structural adhesive. (panel max 4 x 8’). Important note: As panels must be hung to be powder-coated, we require either a hole or a temporary stud that we remove afterwards. It is important to coordinate with your SH project manager to ensure that the holes or marks left by our temporary studs are covered by your mounting brackets/posts or frames.



What powder coat base colors do you offer?

Our standard powder coat base is white because it results in super vivid colors after the graphic is sublimated. Note: white areas in your graphic will be the same white as the base coat, as we do not print and sublimate white. We also have a chrome, gold and bronze base coat for a metallic finish. With this finish, colors will appear slightly muted. White areas in the graphic will result in a chrome field in the finished product.



Can a panel be curved?

We can curve panels to a maximum radius of 4”. Please check with an expert to see if your curved project is possible.



What if I need a thicker profile for my sign or panel?

We can easily put an ALTO™ panel onto a Sintra (exterior) or MDF (interior) backer if you require a thicker panel.



What finishes are available?

We use a fine matte texture that offers optimal scratch resistance and reduces glare. Other finishes, such as glossy and super matte, may be available depending on project details.



Do panels come in custom shapes?

We offer a variety of custom shapes and cut-outs. Some limitations apply. For example, inside bends and interior edges on cut-outs are difficult or impossible to sublimate.



PANELS

 

How do I mount an ALTO™ panel?

We have several mounting options available. Studs, holes and other hardware are applied in advance. We do not recommend drilling, cutting or welding the panels after the graphics have been applied as this will void the warranty.



Are studs or other hardware visible on the panel face?

Welded studs can be mounted to the back of an ALTO™ panel. The location of studs will vary based on the mounting structure. To see all our Mounting Solutions click here.



What size are the mounting studs?

The standard size for an ALTO™mounting stud is 1” long with a diameter of 5/16" and a thread count of 18. To see all our Mounting Solutions click here.



Do ALTO™ panels require frames or special backers?

No frames are needed, as ALTO™ panels have finished edges. Panels can be self-supporting or use one of our mounting options. To see all our Mounting Solutions click here.



HARDWARE

 

What can I put on the panels?

Anything you want! As long as the resolution is 300 dpi, we can print and sublimate it!



What can an ALTO™ panel replace?

ALTO™ products can be used to replace or replicate organic materials, as they can be sublimated to resemble different types of wood, marble, stone, and even multiple types of metal (treated, weathered, manufactured, Corten, etc.).



Can I put ALTO™ in hot climates?

Absolutely! All the graphics are embedded in a UV-resistant powder coat. We have
several projects that have been installed for years in Florida, Asia and South
America.



Can I put ALTO™ panels in cold climate?

One of the most important properties of aluminum is how well it performs in cold weather. In fact, aluminum strengthens when the temperature drops, unlike other materials that become brittle. We have several ALTO™ projects installed in Alaska & The Canadian Rocky Mountains.



What sizes do you offer?

The largest single flat panel we can sublimate is 4’ x 8’ 6” (48” x 102” or 1219.2 mm x 2590.8 mm). For larger format projects like murals, panels can be expertly aligned to achieve desired size.



What is the thickness of the panel?

Standard panels are 1/8” (0.3175 cm) thick. Though this may seem too thin, it is incredibly sturdy. It is extremely hard to bend, while at the same time being lightweight and easy to handle. Other panel thicknesses are available. Prices vary based on market value of aluminum.



Are the edges and corners finished?

Standard corners have eased edges with approximately 1/8" radius for inside corners. Custom corner radius available upon request.



How are edges finished?

All edges are sanded smooth for safety. The graphic image covers the entire surface and wraps around the edges for a professional finish. Note: Image will cover the entire flat surface of a panel and the edges (up to a 7” return, please check with your representative), except in the case of round panels (ex. tables).



What do the backs of the panel look like?

We offer various options: - Unfinished backs (A mix of aluminum and excess powder coating) - Masked back (raw aluminum) - White Powder Coated back - Double-sided: Both sides sublimated of the panel (panel max. 24 x 36”). - Double-sided perforated panels: Both sides sublimated (panel max 4’x 8’ 6”). - Two separate panels attached by acrylic structural adhesive. (panel max 4 x 8’). Important note: As panels must be hung to be powder-coated, we require either a hole or a temporary stud that we remove afterwards. It is important to coordinate with your SH project manager to ensure that the holes or marks left by our temporary studs are covered by your mounting brackets/posts or frames.



What powder coat base colors do you offer?

Our standard powder coat base is white because it results in super vivid colors after the graphic is sublimated. Note: white areas in your graphic will be the same white as the base coat, as we do not print and sublimate white. We also have a chrome, gold and bronze base coat for a metallic finish. With this finish, colors will appear slightly muted. White areas in the graphic will result in a chrome field in the finished product.



Can a panel be curved?

We can curve panels to a maximum radius of 4”. Please check with an expert to see if your curved project is possible.



What if I need a thicker profile for my sign or panel?

We can easily put an ALTO™ panel onto a Sintra (exterior) or MDF (interior) backer if you require a thicker panel.



What finishes are available?

We use a fine matte texture that offers optimal scratch resistance and reduces glare. Other finishes, such as glossy and super matte, may be available depending on project details.



Do panels come in custom shapes?

We offer a variety of custom shapes and cut-outs. Some limitations apply. For example, inside bends and interior edges on cut-outs are difficult or impossible to sublimate.



PREPRESS GUIDELINES

 

Can I order a sample?

Yes, please do! We can send you a couple of complimentary ALTO™ sample kit with 4"x 6" samples or you can buy a Full Sample Box. Click here to learn more.



Can I request a custom sample?

Before entering production, we can produce an 8x10” sample with some elements from your art file (a bit of text, colors, or any significant piece of the file). The lead time on a custom sample is 3-5 business days. Note: Anything beyond this size and format qualifies as a prototype.



Can I request a prototype?

Absolutely! A mini version of your future project can be done. This will help you present your concept to your clients and give you a better sense of the material. Lead time on a prototype is 2-4 weeks.



When will I get my panels?

Our typical lead time is between 3 and 6 weeks once the PDF file is approved, depending on the complexity of your project. A more precise date can be confirmed once project details are provided.



How do you check quality on finished panels?

All panels undergo a thorough inspection to ensure they meet our quality standards. We only reprint panels that exceed our 2% margin of error.



PRODUCTION

 

Can I order a sample?

Yes, please do! We can send you a couple of complimentary ALTO™ sample kit with 4"x 6" samples or you can buy a Full Sample Box. Click here to learn more.



Can I request a custom sample?

Before entering production, we can produce an 8x10” sample with some elements from your art file (a bit of text, colors, or any significant piece of the file). The lead time on a custom sample is 3-5 business days. Note: Anything beyond this size and format qualifies as a prototype.



Can I request a prototype?

Absolutely! A mini version of your future project can be done. This will help you present your concept to your clients and give you a better sense of the material. Lead time on a prototype is 2-4 weeks.



When will I get my panels?

Our typical lead time is between 3 and 6 weeks once the PDF file is approved, depending on the complexity of your project. A more precise date can be confirmed once project details are provided.



How do you check quality on finished panels?

All panels undergo a thorough inspection to ensure they meet our quality standards. We only reprint panels that exceed our 2% margin of error.



MAINTENANCE

 

How much is shipping?

Shipping is based on the size and weight of your order and is based on standard postal or courier rates; expedited shipping is available upon request. Our logistics expert will find the best available rates for your region.



Where do you ship to?

We can ship FOB everywhere in US & Canada on daily basis. We also ship internationally.



How do you pack ALTO™ panels for shipping?

We ensure that your panels are well protected when we package your order.



My package arrived and it is damaged. What do I do?

Do not sign for damaged packaging as we will not be able to make a claim for you with the shipping company if it signed.



SHIPPING

 

What can I put on the panels?

Anything you want! As long as the resolution is 300 dpi, we can print and sublimate it!



What can an ALTO™ panel replace?

ALTO™ products can be used to replace or replicate organic materials, as they can be sublimated to resemble different types of wood, marble, stone, and even multiple types of metal (treated, weathered, manufactured, Corten, etc.).



Can I put ALTO™ in hot climates?

Absolutely! All the graphics are embedded in a UV-resistant powder coat. We have
several projects that have been installed for years in Florida, Asia and South
America.



Can I put ALTO™ panels in cold climate?

One of the most important properties of aluminum is how well it performs in cold weather. In fact, aluminum strengthens when the temperature drops, unlike other materials that become brittle. We have several ALTO™ projects installed in Alaska & The Canadian Rocky Mountains.



What sizes do you offer?

The largest single flat panel we can sublimate is 4’ x 8’ 6” (48” x 102” or 1219.2 mm x 2590.8 mm). For larger format projects like murals, panels can be expertly aligned to achieve desired size.



What is the thickness of the panel?

Standard panels are 1/8” (0.3175 cm) thick. Though this may seem too thin, it is incredibly sturdy. It is extremely hard to bend, while at the same time being lightweight and easy to handle. Other panel thicknesses are available. Prices vary based on market value of aluminum.



Are the edges and corners finished?

Standard corners have eased edges with approximately 1/8" radius for inside corners. Custom corner radius available upon request.



How are edges finished?

All edges are sanded smooth for safety. The graphic image covers the entire surface and wraps around the edges for a professional finish. Note: Image will cover the entire flat surface of a panel and the edges (up to a 7” return, please check with your representative), except in the case of round panels (ex. tables).



What do the backs of the panel look like?

We offer various options: - Unfinished backs (A mix of aluminum and excess powder coating) - Masked back (raw aluminum) - White Powder Coated back - Double-sided: Both sides sublimated of the panel (panel max. 24 x 36”). - Double-sided perforated panels: Both sides sublimated (panel max 4’x 8’ 6”). - Two separate panels attached by acrylic structural adhesive. (panel max 4 x 8’). Important note: As panels must be hung to be powder-coated, we require either a hole or a temporary stud that we remove afterwards. It is important to coordinate with your SH project manager to ensure that the holes or marks left by our temporary studs are covered by your mounting brackets/posts or frames.



What powder coat base colors do you offer?

Our standard powder coat base is white because it results in super vivid colors after the graphic is sublimated. Note: white areas in your graphic will be the same white as the base coat, as we do not print and sublimate white. We also have a chrome, gold and bronze base coat for a metallic finish. With this finish, colors will appear slightly muted. White areas in the graphic will result in a chrome field in the finished product.



Can a panel be curved?

We can curve panels to a maximum radius of 4”. Please check with an expert to see if your curved project is possible.



What if I need a thicker profile for my sign or panel?

We can easily put an ALTO™ panel onto a Sintra (exterior) or MDF (interior) backer if you require a thicker panel.



What finishes are available?

We use a fine matte texture that offers optimal scratch resistance and reduces glare. Other finishes, such as glossy and super matte, may be available depending on project details.



Do panels come in custom shapes?

We offer a variety of custom shapes and cut-outs. Some limitations apply. For example, inside bends and interior edges on cut-outs are difficult or impossible to sublimate.



PRICING & PAYMENT

For off the beaten path questions, please contact us: