Hard Boards
When it comes to large-format printing, choosing the right material can make or break your project. Whether you are prepping for a major industry trade show, directing guests at an outdoor event, or installing permanent signage on your storefront, the medium you print on matters.
Foam Board (The Elegant Indoor Performer)
If you need high quality, lightweight signage for indoor use, Foam Board (often called Foamex) is your best friend. Made from a dense, compressed foam core sandwiched between two smooth PVC sheets, it offers a premium, matte finish.
- Best for: Indoor exhibitions, presentation graphics, mood boards, point-of-sale displays, and art prints.
- Key Benefits: Extremely lightweight, easy to mount (even with Velcro), smooth surface for vibrant color reproduction, and budget-friendly.
- Best Environment: Strictly indoors. (Avoid using it outdoors as it can warp in high heat or get damaged by heavy rain/wind).
Correx Board (The Tough, Temporary Outdoor Champion)
Have you ever seen an estate agent’s "For Sale" sign or a construction site warning board? That’s Correx. It is a fluted plastic material (similar to corrugated cardboard, but made of durable polypropylene).
- Best for: Temporary outdoor signage, event direction signs, construction site boards, and political campaign signs.
- Key Benefits: Weatherproof, waterproof, incredibly lightweight, and highly cost-effective for bulk orders.
- Best Environment: Outdoors (short to medium-term). It can withstand wind and rain with ease, though it is not designed for permanent multi-year installations.
Dibond Board (The Heavy-Duty, Premium Standard)
When durability is non-negotiable, Dibond is the gold standard. It consists of a rigid polyethylene core sandwiched between two layers of strong aluminum. It is incredibly tough, completely weather-resistant, and will not warp under extreme temperatures.
- Best for: Permanent outdoor shop-front signage, long-term hoarding, directional road signs, and high-end gallery prints.
- Key Benefits: Ultra-durable, rust-proof, impact-resistant, and gives a sleek, high-end professional finish.
- Best Environment: Outdoors (long-term) or premium indoor environments.