Outdoor signs face constant exposure to harsh weather, from heavy rain to strong sunlight. So, choosing the right plastic sheet makes a big difference in how well your sign performs.
With durable materials available, you can create signs that stay clear, bright, and effective for years. Keep reading to explore reliable options that are widely used and find out which one suits your needs best.
Signs are one of the most common uses for outdoor plastics. When it comes to selecting plastic for outdoor signs, there are a number of elements to consider about the signage in question such as size, weight, color, and illumination; but one element above all needs to be taken into account: the weather. Come rain or shine, snow and hail, at the end of the day your sign needs to keep looking as new as the day it was put up.
One of the best plastics for this application is Poly(methyl methacrylate) or PMMA, which is best known as acrylic. Acrylic is one of the engineering plastics we mention in one article on mechanical parts here. Let’s have a closer look at acrylic.
Acrylic Sheets For Long-Lasting Clarity
Acrylic sheets, often called Perspex, are known for their clarity and weather resistance. They resist fading, stay glossy, and handle the weather with ease. These sheets are shatter-resistant, making them safer than glass while still offering the same professional appearance.
Suppliers such as Simply Plastics provide acrylic sheets in a wide range of colours and finishes, which allows you to customise signs for different settings. Their durability and versatility make them one of the most popular choices for long-term outdoor signage.
Aluminium Composite Sheets For Strong Outdoor Use
Aluminium composite, also called Dibond, is a mix of polyethylene core and aluminium layers. This structure makes the sheet lightweight yet very strong. It resists bending, swelling, and corrosion, even in damp environments. Sign makers often choose this material for long-term outdoor projects such as shopfronts and directional signs because of its durability.
Polycarbonate Sheets For Impact Protection
Polycarbonate sheets are valued for their exceptional impact resistance. They’re virtually unbreakable, which makes them ideal for outdoor signs in high-traffic or exposed areas.
Unlike some plastics, they can withstand very high and low temperatures without warping. With UV protection, polycarbonate keeps its colour and transparency intact, ensuring your sign remains visible.
PVC Foamboard For Versatile Signage
PVC foamboard, also known as Foamex, is lightweight and easy to cut. It offers good print quality and is widely used for promotional outdoor signs. While not as strong as acrylic or polycarbonate, it provides excellent value for temporary displays, exhibition panels, and outdoor boards. Its versatility and affordability make it a go-to option for many sign makers.
Acrylic Mirror Sheets For Stylish Outdoor Signs
Acrylic mirror sheets are used when you want a reflective finish that stands out. They’re stronger and safer than glass mirrors, while still providing a bright mirrored effect. Outdoors, they work well for decorative displays, event signage, and creative branding. They also maintain their reflective surface without corroding, which is a problem with traditional mirrors.
Closing Message
Each of these plastic sheets offers unique strengths for outdoor signage. Acrylic and polycarbonate provide clarity and toughness, while aluminium composite ensures strength against weather and corrosion. PVC foamboard gives affordable flexibility, and acrylic mirror adds decorative appeal.
Choosing the right material ensures that your outdoor sign looks professional and withstands the unpredictable weather. With these options, you can make informed decisions and invest in signage that lasts season after season.