Balloons are very stable when working indoors, but exposure to heat from the sub can cause unexpected results. This article will outline seven tips to help you make your next outdoor event with balloon decorations a success instead of a nightmare in the middle of the day.
What you need to know:
· Balloons will expand in the heat
· Darker balloon colors will absorb heat and pop faster
· Balloons will oxidize and lose their clarity
Rule #1 Use larger balloon sizes and inflate them less.
Since hot air expands, allowing for extra expansion will help to preserve your balloons when the time gets hot. Opt to purchase larger balloons than the size you need then under-inflate them. When a balloon is under-inflated, it is less stretched and has a thicker lining that is more resistant to heat and expansion
Rule #2 Inflate then Deflate
Always fully inflate balloons to their maximum size and then deflate until you reach the desired size. This will serve to "loosen the balloon" so it experiences less tension when expansion happens in hot conditions.
Rule #3 Oxidation will Happen
The balloons will oxidize. The visual texture of the balloon will change providing a matte finish. Depending on the look you are going for, this can be a good or a bad thing.
If oxidation is not your goal, purchase a product such as Balloon Shine to spray your balloons to preserve their shine. The results are not always perfect but it is the only way to maintain the sheen of indoor decoration while setting up outdoors.
Rule #4 White is Right
From high school science class you would have learned that white reflects light and heat while black absorbs both. For your outdoor events, use white balloons as much as possible. They reflect the sun and fade less.
Rule #5 Wrap your poles
When working with frameworks and poles, ensure that you cover these in white fabric, duct tape or wrap with white modelling balloons. This will help to keep the framework and poles from getting too hot. For the same reason you choose white balloons over black.
Rule #6 Helium and Heat
If you are working with helium-filled balloons, keep in mind that extreme heat speeds up the balloon diffusion process. So, in high temperatures, helium will escape much faster than normal, drastically reducing float time. Using larger balloons and more helium may mitigate these effects.
Rule #7 Double Stuff
Double Stuff the balloons. If not all, then the dark ones and all the ones that are on top of the decorations. These are at the highest risk of popping in the sun.
By applying one or more of the tips above, you will mitigate against the popping of the balloons in your outdoor arrangement.Be aware that the weather can affect balloons and balloon décor and plan accordingly.
