All sign buyers typically have the same two concerns in mind:
1. How much will my business sign cost?
2. How long will my business sign last?
The two are directly correlated, and as with most purchasing situations, longer lasting premium products can be more expensive.
While your business sign is not something you should cheap out on, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to get a sturdy, long-lasting sign. You should, however, invest in a sign that will be made of durable materials. The materials your sign uses will mean the difference between lasting 3 years to 10 years—or even more.
Here are the types of signage materials you should be aware of when choosing your next business sign:
Types of Long-Lasting Vinyl Business Signs
Calendered Vinyl
Calendered vinyl is an efficient option if cost is a major concern. This vinyl film is cheaper to make, but is less weather resistant and prone to cracking from prolonged exposure to the sun. It’s durable enough to work as a temporary outdoor solution (3 to 5 years), and can be a more permanent solution when used indoors.
- Cast Vinyl
Cast vinyl, unlike calendared vinyl, is manufactured using a paint casting method that turns PVC resin, plasticizer, and colorant into a solvent that is later made into a film. The casting process bonds the materials together, crafting a much more durable vinyl product. Cast vinyl can last outdoors on buildings or cars for 5 to 7 years before fading, and is the preferred vinyl choice for long-term outdoor signage or vehicle graphics.
Types of Durable Storefront Business Signs
- Acrylic
Acrylic is an inexpensive yet durable sign material that is popular for use in outdoor business signs and looks great indoors as well. It is a hard plastic that works as a canvas for high-quality graphics, be it text, logos, or other imaging. Indoors, acrylic can provide a high-end look. Outdoors, it provides enough weather resistance to be a more permanent solution.
- Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is a similar sign material to acrylic when it comes to styling and design. Polycarbonate plastics, however, are shatterproof and provide better resistance to weather and other damages your business sign may incur while outdoors. It is slightly more expensive than acrylic, but is a more durable choice for outdoor sign use. - Aluminum
Aluminum materials are the best for permanent outdoor sign solutions. This metal is the sturdiest sign material to use, and it does not rust. Aluminum business signs typically last the longest and will provide you the most return on investment in the long run.
Types of Sturdy Indoor Business Signs
Corrugated Plastic
Corrugated plastic is good for temporary indoor signage. It is an economical sign material that can have just about anything printed on it. It’s not uncommon for people to use corrugated plastic signs outdoors; however, this is just for cheaper and very temporary uses.- Polystyrene
Polystyrene is more durable than corrugated plastic and can last indefinitely indoors with proper care. It is more resistant to dings and dents than corrugated plastic, but is not weather resistant like acrylic or polycarbonate. - Foam PVC
Foam PVC is one of the best inexpensive materials for permanent indoor sign usage. It is more durable than corrugated plastic and polystyrene and is the most high-quality in terms of its presentation.
Proper Sign Installation Makes a HUGE Difference
The quality of signage materials you will use is just as important as the professionals you choose to create and install your business sign. Based in Aston, PA, KC Sign & Awnings has been manufacturing and installing signs for over 20 years, and we only use premium materials like 3M cast vinyl and aluminum. When it comes to manufacturing signs, we use all the best practices, like welding where other companies may use rivets. Both materials and installation play a big factor in how long your sign can last.
Need help deciding what kind of sign to buy? Check out our Sign Buyer’s Guide!
