Pur Binding Printing

PUR binding printing refers to a type of perfect binding, whereby a book’s pages, cover, and spine are glued together using Polyurethane Reactive (PUR) as an adhesive. This process results in strong, durable, and flexible softcover books. PUR glue is highly popular as it can be used on all different types of substrates, from UV-coated paper to recycled paper.

PUR binding printing is typically used for brochures and softcover books, where flexibility and durability are paramount for the reader experience. PUR is also ultra-strong, making it perfect for a traditional book (which is typically an item that can be kept and reused for years at a time.) PUR binding isn’t used for hardcover books – for a hardcover book, you’ll need to enquire about case binding. Aside from softcover books, PUR binding can also be used for yearbooks, children’s books, long catalogues, manuals, and more.

PUR is actually a type of perfect binding; the only difference between PUR binding and perfect binding is the type of glue used in the process; the result – at least on an aesthetic level – is largely the same. Instead of using PUR glue, perfect printing involves using EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) glue. Put simply, PUR binding is an upgraded form of perfect binding, as PUR glue is stronger than EVA, and can adhere to a wider variety of printed surfaces.

Book binding in itself can be an expensive process, and PUR binding can be on the pricier side of things as it uses a superior adhesive glue. However, despite being typically more expensive than perfect binding, PUR binding is the best option when you’re looking for the highest-quality, most durable form of book binding: the flexibility of the PUR glue makes the book able to withstand damage more than a perfect-bound book. At Avenue, we’ll always offer cost-effective pricing for any bulk order, and we’ll always do our best to make sure you get the most for the least. If you want to make an enquiry about pricing, don’t hesitate to contact us at our office on 01732 742397, where a member of our team will be happy to give you a quote or discover more about your project.

There are many advantages to using PUR binding for your softcover book project. Here are just a few benefits to using this form of binding:
Strong
PUR glue is an incredibly strong and pliable adhesive glue, and is much stronger than EVA glue when it comes to binding books. This makes PUR binding the best option if you’re creating a lengthy softcover book designed for durability.
Flexibility
PUR binding results in a highly flexible finish, minimising the possibility that your book’s spine will crease or become damaged when the book is in use, when the book is opened wide, or when the book is placed open on a flat surface. Readers will be able to bend the book for easier readability, without damaging its spine or structure.
Fewer page fall-outs
Softcover books that are bound with PUR glue suffer around 50% less page fall-out than softcover books bound with EVA glue (aka perfect binding.) This is due to the strength of PUR glue, which keeps the book’s pages attached at the spine.
Can adhere to a variety of substrates
Another great thing about PUR glue is its ability to adhere to lots of different substrates used in the book-making and printing process. PUR glue can adhere to UV-treated paper, recycled paper, aqueous-coated stock, as well as ink and varnish.

When it comes to strength, flexibility, durability, and reduced page fall-out, PUR glue (used in PUR binding) is much better than EVA glue (used in perfect binding.) However, PUR is slightly more expensive – if you’re on a budget, or if durability isn’t a particular concern for your project, there’s nothing wrong with opting for perfect binding instead. EVA is more suited to products such as magazine and books with fewer pages.

In general, most softcover books bound with PUR binding are between 40 and 700 pages long. Anything less than 40 pages would most likely be a waste of money and could easily be bound with something more economic, such as saddle stitch printing. Similarly, a book over 700 pages would probably require a stronger binding, such as case binding, in order to prevent damage and page fall-out.

At Avenue, we’ve got over thirty years of printing experience, working for clients both in the business world and locally. When you place an order with us, one of our team members will become your assigned project manager, and will oversee your project’s production until completion. Your project manager will also be on-hand 5 days a week to answer any questions you might have about your order, respond to adjustment requests, and give you updates on your project. Do remember that once your project has gone to print, adjustment requests may be limited (outside of simply increasing the volume of your order.)

We’ll always do our best to meet all last-minute deadlines. However, do bear in mind that book binding times can vary depending on the length of the book, as well as any special finishes or substrates required. If you have an urgent deadline, make sure to speak with one of us as soon as possible; we’ll take a look at your project specifications and aim to let you know within the day whether or not your deadline is possible. If we’re unable to meet your deadline, we’ll let you know upfront and offer an alternative timeline. We’ll never take on your project if we can’t make your deadline – that’s the Avenue promise.