Weatherproof signs

Read the site before choosing a board

Spend a few minutes noting what the sign will face. A south-facing wall gets strong sun, so fading is the main concern. An open field or rooftop brings wind load, and fixings and panel size become critical. Coastal sites add salt, which attacks ordinary metal fittings. Shaded, damp walls encourage algae and staining. Anywhere within reach of the public may see scratches or graffiti. Listing these helps us advise on a suitable build, because no material is equally strong against all of them.

Matching material to how long it must last

A sign's expected life narrows the choice quickly. Fluted plastic, covered under correx printing, is light and useful for temporary site boards, yet it will not stay crisp for years. Rigid PVC, as used in Foamex printing, handles medium-term use but can bow in strong heat if poorly supported. For long-term outdoor use, aluminium signs are a common choice as the material stays flat and does not rust. Tell us your timescale, and ask us to compare the options for your site.

The small parts that fail first

Boards rarely give up before their fixings do. Stainless steel screws avoid rust streaks running down the face, and edges with a sealed or folded finish are less likely to let water creep behind vinyl. A laminate gives extra UV and scratch protection for printed graphics. Allow for thermal movement on long panels, with holes that give a little room. Fix into something solid, not crumbling render or rotten timber. Large or illuminated signs may need advertising consent, so check with your local planning authority first.

Related topics

• Aluminium composite panels