Plastic Paper or Laminated Plans?

When drawings need to withstand wet conditions, repeated handling or use on site, we offer two durable options: laminated plans and plastic paper plans. Both are waterproof and tear-resistant, but they feel and perform differently.

Which Option Should You Choose?

• Plastic paper plans are printed directly onto thin, flexible synthetic paper. They are lightweight, easy to roll and transport, and suitable for drawings that need to be handled regularly without the bulk of lamination.  They can be written on with permanent markers, but drywipe marker will not wipe off cleanly. Colour and black-and-white drawings are priced the same.
• Laminated plans are printed onto 80gsm paper and encapsulated with a gloss laminate. They are thicker, more rigid and better suited to heavy handling or repeated use.

They can be written on with permanent or drywipe markers, making them useful for drawings that need temporary notes or updates.  In simple terms, choose plastic paper for a lighter, more flexible plan or lamination for maximum strength and rigidity.

Supplying and Ordering Your Drawings

PDF is the preferred file format. We normally print each drawing at the page size saved within the PDF, but we can enlarge or reduce it when requested.  Most CAD plans contain lines, text and light shading. Select the graphics, photos or solid backgrounds option if your drawings include renderings, satellite imagery, photographs or large areas of solid colour.  To check a PDF’s page size in Adobe Acrobat or Reader, go to File > Properties > Description. The page size should be shown within the document information.  Calculate the number of drawings required at each size, place your order online and upload the PDFs after checkout. Please include any instructions about sizing, folding or quantities.  We check each file for print suitability and obvious sizing issues before production. We do not check the technical accuracy or content of the drawings.  You can also email us your files for a quotation and payment link. For larger files, please use our WeTransfer page.  We accept TIFF, DWF, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Publisher files, although PDF usually provides the most reliable result. Native DWG files require additional preparation and should be emailed for a custom quotation.

Turnaround and Delivery

Plastic paper plans: Usually 1–2 working days
Laminated plans: Usually 2–3 working days

Standard courier delivery is £8 plus VAT (£9.60). Turnaround begins once we have received suitable files and confirmed any necessary instructions.

Order online now or contact us if you need help choosing the right material.