How to Choose the Right Signage Material for Your Needs

Let’s stop the endless google scrolling: This article will explain how to choose the right signage material for your needs. Plain and simple

Aluminium Composite (Also known as Di-Bond)

Aluminium composite is a strong, durable material that is often used for outdoor signage.

It is made up of two thin layers of aluminium that are sandwiched around a core of plastic or composite material.

This makes it lightweight and weather-resistant. Aluminium composite is also very versatile and can be used to create a variety of different signage effects.

For example, it can be used to create signs with a 3D effect, or to embed objects or images in the aluminium.

Brilliant as an all round product but excels at Shop Facias (Sold here), heavy duty advertising boards (Also sold here…) and other creative ideas.

Terrible at cost efficent, temporary products as the base material is too expensive.

Corruglated Plastic (Correx)

Correx is a white, rigid board that is often used for indoor signage.

It is made from a lightweight, corrugated plastic material.

Correx is relatively inexpensive and easy to work with.

Used heavily in the estate agent industry to display “For Sale” or “To Let Boards” (White we also happen to sell…have a look!

However, correx is not as durable as aluminium composite and will not last as long outdoors.

Brilliant at temporary signage that is inexpensive to produce, in either short or long runs.

Terrible at show casing quality, as the fluted aspects of the material make the print look uneven.

Acrylic (Or Perspex)

Acrylic is a clear or colored plastic that is often used for both indoor and outdoor signage.

It is available in a variety of thicknesses, from 2mm to 25mm.

Acrylic is a very durable material that can withstand the elements.

It is also a good choice for signs that will be used in high-traffic areas, as it is resistant to scratches and fading.

However, acrylic can be expensive and heavy depending on what thickness and size you choose.

Brilliant at showing off show-stopping products or nice artwork.

Terrible at temporary signage that needs fitting to fences (prone to cracking under tension)

Foamboard (Or Foamex)

Foamboard (also known as Foamex) is a lightweight, white board that is often used for indoor signage but can also be used (in some circumstances) externally.

It is made from a foamed plastic material with air in the middle. The density of the foamboard depends on the job in hand.

Foamboard is relatively inexpensive and easy to work with.

However, foamboard is not as durable as acrylic or aluminium composite and can warp in direct sunlight (Like a banana!).

Brilliant for internal displays that needs to last

Terrible at long-lasting external signage, due to the air in the material expanding when warm and warping material.

Ultimately, the best signage material for your needs will depend on your specific requirements. By considering the factors above, you can choose the right material for your signage project.

Still not sure? That’s what we are here for. Give us a call or email us and we can run you through the options we feel is best.