Office supplies are an integral part of most business who want to stay organized and professional. When handling paperwork or getting material together for a presentation, businesses often find themselves needing custom binders. However, with such a plethora of them available on the market, it may be difficult to decide which one works the best for the company’s needs. Two of the major and most popular options are vinyl and poly binders.
Here’s a guide to each of these types of binders and their main differences to help speed the decision process along.
Poly Binders
Poly binders are some of the easiest types of binders to clean. They’re extremely durable, long-lasting and resistant to cracking or tearing. They can be used in a variety of settings, from classrooms to workshops to hospitals. They can also be customized and come in variety of sizes, colors and thicknesses.
Constructed out of solid sheet of polyethylene plastic and scored to make hinges, a poly binder’s flexibility is determined by the gauge that was used in its making. Poly binders are created in a range of sizes – the most common gauges on the market being .023, .035, .055, .075 and up to .110. A gauge of .023 is perfect for those who want a very lightweight and flexible binder, while the higher gauges, particularly around .075, become sturdy and rigid.
A number of special additions and customizations can also be added to poly binders, some of these being inside pockets, holders for business cards or CDs, and screen printing in a myriad of colors.
Poly binders are a great option for those looking for durability. These type of binders can handle both hot and cold temperatures, making them perfect for use in harsh climates or conditions, as well as rough handling including being dropped or tossed.
Vinyl Binders
Vinyl binders tend to work best in settings where they will be relatively safe and handled gently since the vinyl material they are created from is sensitive to cracking in colder environments and sags or softens in hot temperatures. They are constructed by using special dies and a dielectric machine to create a heat seal between the vinyl material and the cover and lining materials. The seal is created entirely by heat and radio frequency, meaning no glue is necessary.
Ring sizes for vinyl binders come in various options, including 4-ring, 5-ring, 6-ring and others, though the 3-ring metal binders are by far the most popular. Likewise, the standard binders are made for standard sized paper sheets, but can be tailored for any sheet size. Choosing vinyl is a great way to create a custom binder for the office.
Main Differences & Advantages
Choosing which binder works best is largely dependent on what environment the binder will be in. For moderate and light handling both can be utilized, but those looking for a binder that’s going to withstand the elements, rough weather or locations where they might be dropped or mishandled would be advised to steer clear of vinyl and choose poly binders.
Both poly and vinyl binders can be made with a number of customizations and add-ons, though vinyl tends to offer more customizability. Sophisticated or standard offices that are concerned more about image should choose vinyl binders, which can have highly customized covers and look good on bookshelves and in the boardroom.
