In the paper industry we come across lots of references to waterproof and water-resistant materials. The big question is: What’s the difference? Let’s take a closer look at the differences between the two terms and what is best suited for your application.

WATER RESISTANT

Water resistant paper refers to paper products that are designed to withstand incidental or light contact with water. These products can be used in wet or outdoor environments. So, they can resist the penetration of water to some degree but not entirely. However, these products can be designed in a way that gives them comparable qualities to synthetic waterproof papers.

PaperTyger products are constructed with uncoated papers that have wet strength for short-term protection against moisture. The inner film allows the durability and moisture barrier of synthetic paper with the look and feel of standard paper. Because of its unique construction of paper/film/paper, this paper will run on almost any laser or inkjet printer.

PaperTyger’s standard products now have the option of a UV IJ aqueous coating. This makes the product weather resistant for a certified period of 90 days when printed and converted for exterior applications, whether it’s exposed to sun, wind, humidity, snow or hot and cold temperatures.

WATERPROOF

Waterproof paper is typically created with a special plastic coating and fibres to allow it to stay together and not change shape or texture when exposed to rain, dampness, or submersion in water. Many manufacturers of waterproof paper products claim that their materials are dishwasher proof. Though just like our PaperTyger water resistant products, waterproof papers are durable and tear resistant. 

SO, WHAT’S BEST SUITED FOR YOUR APPLICATION?

Our PaperTyger products can be used on a broad range of applications where durability is required including: envelopes, maps, menus, mailing solutions, ID cards and manuals.

For more information on our PaperTyger products click here.

So, unless your application requires resistance to long-term protection against moisture such as immersion in water, save costs and invest in our water-resistant products that have comparable qualities to synthetic waterproof papers. Furthermore, there are no special inks or set ups required and no prolonged drying times when using our products. Consistent and smooth printing surfaces result with exceptional graphics for your applications.

Related article: Who Needs Durable Printer Paper?