Which is the best material to use for outdoor signage?

So, whether you’re looking for permanent shop signage or temporary outdoor visuals, choosing the right material for the job is essential. In this guide, we explain what you need to think about when designing your outdoor signage, before then looking at four specialist materials that could be exactly what you need.

How to choose the right material for outdoor signage

The key to selecting the right materials is considering all the factors. After all, there is no one-size-fits-all material when it comes to outdoor signage. Before doing anything else, consider the following:

• Weather/climate
• Location
• Sustainability
• Graphics 
• Budget

For example, if you know the sign is going to receive prolonged sun exposure, you may want to opt for a UV-resistant material. On the other hand, if you live in a rainy or humid location, a material with more water-resistant properties might be a better option. Moving away from weather, you also need to consider budget considerations, desired lifespan and visual appeal. This is to say, if you are only looking for a temporary sign to advertise a seasonal promotion, for instance, you can afford to opt for a cheaper material that will do the job for the limited duration of the promotion. However, for more permanent outdoor signage, more durable materials will have to be considered.

Best materials for outdoor signs

Below we look at four popular materials that can be used for outdoor signages. Each has attributes that  are best suited to different tasks.

Aluminium Composite Material (ACM)

If you’re looking for permanent outdoor signage that will be able to weather the elements for years to come, aluminium composite material is a great choice. It is rust resistant, lightweight, transportable, easy to install, and very versatile when it comes to graphics and finishes. Although generally more expensive than other options discussed, this material is ideal for storefront signage, permanent informational plaques, and directional signs.

Libra Weather Board

Designed for up to eight weeks of outdoor use, Libra Weather Board can be a great option if you’re after temporary outdoor signage that is both cost-effective and environmentally-friendly. This smart material is made from water-repellent recycled fibres that are FSC® certified. It also makes use of a laminated finish, meaning its smooth surfaces are ideal for vibrant printing and clear graphics. Although not a permanent outdoor signage solution, Libra can be perfect for advertising at an outdoor event or for showcasing seasonal/temporary promotional material. 

PVC banners

Suitable for both short and long term display applications, PVC is a versatile outdoor signage choice. This material is known for its affordability, versatility, and resistance to the elements, making it a popular choice. Perhaps better described as banners rather than traditional rigid signage, this material can be implemented in a number of different ways:

• Frontlit PVC signs

These banner signs are illuminated with a front-facing light source, meaning no light penetrates from behind. They feature a smooth surface and allow for vibrant graphics, which can be scaled-up easily. This makes them ideal for short-to-mid term outdoor advertising.

• Backlit PVC signs

As the name suggests, these signs are designed to be lit from behind. This makes them ideal for locations with low-light conditions. 

• Blockout PVC signs

Perfect for double-sided signs, blockout PVC prevents light from passing through it. These signs tend to be slightly more heavy-duty and durable, making them ideal for locations that experience more volatile weather conditions. 

Katz Outdoor Board

Specifically designed for outdoor use, Katz Outdoor Board is an environmentally-friendly and water-resistant spruce wood board perfect for up to 12 weeks of outdoor use. A substitute for PE-coated substrates, this clever material is laminated with poster paper meaning it allows for high-quality printing. Like Libra Weather Board, Katz Board is ideal for outdoor events, as well as temporary outdoor advertising material and election campaigns. It is also fully recyclable. 

Mesh banners 

Finally, if you are looking for outdoor signage that needs to withstand strong winds and gusts, mesh banners are a fantastic option. The perforated design of this smart signage allows for wind to simply pass through it, reducing stress on the material and ensuring the sign stays in place.

Ideal for outdoor, open spaces, such as construction sites and sports venues, as well as full building wraps, their lightweight and easily-bespoke nature make them a wonderful option for both small and large-scale signage jobs, especially in windy conditions.

To find out more about outdoor signage options or for expert advice on material selection, browse our site or get in touch with Antalis today.