Frequently Asked Questions
What is TerraSlate Paper?
TerraSlate Paper is the world's most proven waterproof and rip-proof paper on the planet. Compatible with ballpoint pens, copy machines, laser printers, and digital presses, TerraSlate is a fully synthetic paper that never needs laminating and can hold up to extreme conditions and use over long periods of time without replacement.
TerraSlate was developed to be waterproof, rip-proof, and extremely durable. It can withstand submersion in water for extended periods of time and extreme temperature variations while repelling grease, solvents, and chemicals.
TerraSlate offers superior laser image quality with the appearance, smoothness, and printability of standard paper; and works great in almost any standard laser printer or digital press. Most importantly, TerraSlate is more cost-effective to use and has a much more professional look than laminating.
What is TerraSlate Paper made out of?
TerraSlate is made from a military-grade polyester that enables its extreme performance in adverse conditions. TerraSlate is durable, rip-proof, and waterproof to withstand rain, heat, and temperature variations while deterring grease, solvents, and chemicals. Simply wipe clean and re-use. It can even be run through a commercial dishwasher.
Will TerraSlate work with my printer?
TerraSlate paper can be printed with just about any laser or digital printer/copier. TerraSlate waterproof paper is endorsed for use on many digital presses, including Kodak, Xerox, Ricoh, Canon, Konica Minolta, and more. See the list of printers our customers have told us they are using here. We can also print anything you need for you here at our state-of-the-art printing facility. Email printing@terraslate.com for a quote today.
Note that TerraSlate is not compatible with inkjet printers as water-based ink does not adhere well to waterproof paper. However, we have a full-service print shop in-house that can print for you with ultra-high resolution and a 2-day turnaround on production.
Is TerraSlate economical?
Yes, TerraSlate printer paper is extremely cost-effective to use. It is more affordable than laminated materials and takes much less time to produce. Our tear-proof and waterproof paper is designed to last over 100 years, even with heavy use, but is also inexpensive enough to use daily.
What is TerraSlate Waterproof Paper best suited for?
TerraSlate is ideally suited for use anytime printed materials will be subject to frequent handling or extreme conditions. Because TerraSlate is made tough, you can count on it in some of the most extreme conditions on Earth.
What is the best way to clean TerraSlate Paper & Menus?
TerraSlate menus are easy to clean with simple soap and water and a non-abrasive cloth. They won’t harbor germs like other menus with our Ag+ antimicrobial and antiviral coating.
Please avoid using Windex, “The Green Stuff” and other harsh chemicals as these can damage the Ag+ antimicrobial and antiviral coating.
Where is TerraSlate sold?
TerraSlate is sold through our website with factory-direct pricing - www.terraslate.com. TerraSlate can also be purchased at walmart.com and on amazon.com; however, the prices there are always higher because of their markup.
Can I print full in full color on both sides TerraSlate Paper?
Yes, TerraSlate has superior laser image quality and can easily be printed in brilliant High Definition color on both sides equally. Our synthetic polyester retains color better than any other paper on the market with the appearance, smoothness, and printability of standard paper.
Do you have a list of printers that you know work well?
Is TerraSlate recyclable?
Yes, TerraSlate waterproof and weatherproof paper is both reusable and recyclable. Note that like anything, TerraSlate may or may not be able to be recycled into new materials at your local recycling center, which is why we strongly encourage re-use whenever possible.
Can I print on both sides?
TerraSlate is omni-sided meaning both sides look equally brilliant and can easily handle back-to-front printing.
How long does shipping take?
We offer free overnight on waterproof menu orders to the lower 48 states and free 2-day shipping to Hawaii and Alaska. We also offer ffree 2-Day shipping within the USA on almost every order free of charge. Expedited, overnight, or ground shipping is always available at checkout if desired. International shipping is free on orders over $100 and the best part is that we pay the import taxes and duties for you.
What else can it be used for?
TerraSlate is available as laser paper, laser labels, laser ID cards, door hangers, luggage tags, bookmarks, and more. Plus, TerraSlate is easily customizable for any application.
What are the standard paper sizes?
Standard sizes include 8.5" x 11," 8.5" x 14," 11" x 17," 12" x 18," 13" x 19," "A3," "A4," and "A5." Custom sizes can be ordered with those over 13" x 19" which require a minimum order of 4,000 sheets.
Does TerraSlate's Nano Coating (included on menus and by request on printed materials) protect people from all disease-causing microbes?
While TerraSlate’s proprietary nano-coating significantly reduces the growth of microbes, it does not protect users or others against all disease-causing microbes. This technology is not a substitute for good hygiene and/or cleaning practices.
What are the TerraSlate print guidelines for printed jobs?
Are TerraSlate & Hydronote Flammable / Flame and Fire Resistant?
TerraSlate and Hydronote are both considered non-flammible. However, a material is considered "flammable" if it ignites and burns with a self-sustained flame at
a rate greater than 0.1 inches per second along its major axis - which TerraSlate and Hydronote do not.
Can I print on TerraSlate with UV Flexo Ink?
Yes, you can do so with UV Flexo Ink (UV lamp curing). If you are printing variable data, make sure the UV Flexo Ink is compatible with laser printer equipment. It should not melt onto the fuser.
Can I print TerraSlate on KIP or Ricoh poster printer devices?
No, TerraSlate is not compatible with KIP or Ricoh poster printing devices.
Can I print standard TerraSlate on HP Indigo presses?
Often yes, however we make a specific substrate for HP Indigo presses. For more information or to place an order for Indigo compatible TerraSlate, call us or email printing@terraslate.com.
Can I print TerraSlate on an offset press?
Yes, but please email us for tips when printing TerraSlate via offset printing.
Can I screen-print TerraSlate?
Yes, TerraSlate prints well with UV screen printing presses.
Can TerraSlate be cut using laser cutters?
Yes, laser cutting works well with TerraSlate.
Can I drill TerraSlate?
Yes, but make sure to use low speed whenever possible to reduce heat as heat can melt the substrate if it the temperature gets too high. We also recommend using new and sharp drill bits. For best results, spray the drill bit with dry silicone spray before drilling.
Can TerraSlate be embossed?
Yes, however, we recommend testing on your own equipment before committing to a large order.
Can I use TerraSlate for ultrasonic welding?
No, TerraSlate does not work well for ultrasonic welding.
What type of binding do you recommend for binding TerraSlate?
We recommend spiral binding with either wire or monofilament, or Wire-O binding. Perfect binding is also possible on 5 Mil and 8 Mil TerraSlate but is not recommended for 10 Mil and 14 Mil TerraSlate because of its thickness.
Can TerraSlate be finished with UV Varnish?
Yes, TerraSlate works well with UV Varnish.
What are the best utensils for writing or drawing on TerraSlate?
We recommend using ballpoint pens and sharpies. Pencils also work but they are more prone to smearing in some instances. We do not recommend using liquid ink pens or gel pens as the liquid ink in them does not adhere well to waterproof paper.
Is TerraSlate considered archival-quality paper?
Yes, TerraSlate is acid-free and is great for archival use.
How does TerraSlate react to long exposure to sunlight?
TerraSlate can become very slightly yellow after long periods of exposure to sunlight; however, we have never heard of this being a problem. We use it outdoors regularly in direct sunlight and have not found this to be an issue.
Is TerraSlate PVC free?
Yes, TerraSlate is completely free of PVC, which is toxic, and is never recommended for use in the print world or in an application where its fumes will be breathed in or when it will be handled without gloves. TerraSlate does not have these problems.
*Note that like anything, TerraSlate may or may not be able to be recycled into new materials at your local recycling center, which is why we strongly encourage re-use whenever possible.
How much graphic design time comes with the $199 Menu Template Customization option?
Two hours of graphic design time are included. If you need more, we are always happy to send you a quote - design@terraslate.com.
