Which Covering Do I Need?
Which Covering Product do I need?
Before you start, please know that you are always welcome to use our Live Chat on the bottom right of the screen, and we'll be happy to advise you on which products are best suited for your products.
Permanent coverings - (adhesive)
Self adhesive book coverings are a popular way of protecting books, particularly books which are to be handled regulary such as textbooks or children's books. Once applied, these coverings will remain on the book permanently, and cannot be removed. These products should never be used for archival purposes or on valuable books as it will decrease their value.
Paperbacks
- Plascote - available in a range of thicknesses, levels of adhesion and finishes, this style of covering is by far the most common one used to protect paperbacks
- Flexicote - semi rigid sheets bond permanently to the front and back covers, not only protecting the book but adding substantial rigidity to the covers themselves.
Hardcover books with dust jackets
- Plascote can be used to protect the dust jacket itself by applying it to the outside, then putting the dust jacket back on the book.
Hardcover books without dust jackets
- Plascote can be used to protect a hard cover book without a dust jacket, but with a printed cover, much in the same manner as that used for a paperback books
Non - Permanent coverings - non adhesive
Non permanent coverings offer a high level of protection to your books, while still being fully removable, retaining the value of the books while keeping them well protected. While some may have adhesives in them, the adhesives touch only the covering, never the book itself. A non permanent covering won't come off by itself, but can be removed if damaged, or for example if the book is being resold.
Paperbacks
- Centurion and Pro-Lene- offer good protection, using the same technique as for hardcover books.
Hardcover books with dust jackets
- Centurion / Pro-Lene- PVC or Polypropylene film can be quickly wrapped around the dust jacket, then the dust jacket is replaced on the book. A quick method of covering which offers excellent protection, and is favoured by bookshops.
- Unifold / Unifold Pro - Specifically designed for books with dust jackets, this well known product forms a protective sleeve around the dust jacket and holds the cover onto the book. This method is very popular in libraries.
Hardcover books without dust jackets
Archival coverings
Looking to protect your special collection for the long term? Archival covering products allow you to protect your books with the peace of mind that acid free, chemically inert, non reactive film offers. Always be sure to use an archival tape if required, and only tape the covering to itself.
Paperbacks
- Pro-Lene - Polypropylene film can be cut and folded to shape to protect the covers of your book, or even wrap the book entirely for longer storage or shipping
- Archival Polypropylene Bags can be used to store paperbacks. This is particularly useful for books which are on sale or being shipped.
Hardcover books with dust jackets
- Pro-Lene - Polypropylene film can be quickly wrapped around the dust jacket, then the dust jacket is replaced on the book. A quick method of covering which offers excellent protection, and is favoured by bookshops.
- Profold - An all polypropylene sleeve, to cover the dust jacket of your book. Crystal clear and durable acid free covering.
Hardcover books without dust jackets
- Pro-Lene - Polypropylene - Cut to size and folded around the sides, top and bottom of the book, this method requires a little extra work with scissors and tape but give a good result.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about which covering you need.