Sunlight-resistant materials for signage

Exterior signage is the first impression a customer has of a business. However, choosing the wrong backing can cause the sign to look faded, warped or cracked within a few months due to UV radiation and temperature changes. Durability is key to maintaining a professional image.

The problem of weathering

Not all plastics or metals react the same in the sun. Thermal expansion and UV degradation are the main enemies of outdoor sign materials.

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Foamed PVC: Tends to yellow and warp with heat.
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Methacrylate: May crystallize and crack over time.
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Galvanized sheet metal: Heavy and risk of rusting at the edges.
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Composite panel: Stable, flat and corrosion resistant.

Estimated durability table

Material	UV resistance	Stability (No bending)	Outdoor service life
PVC / Forex	Low	Low	1 – 2 years
Polypropylene	Very Low	Low	6 – 12 months
Methacrylate	Medium/High	Medium	3 – 5 years
Composite Panel	Very High	Very High	+10 years

Why choose composite for signage

Aluminum composite dibond is the current industry standard. If you need reliable brackets, contact this rigid bracket distributor.

Its technical advantages make it superior:

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Printable: It admits direct digital printing with high adherence.
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Machinable: It can be milled and folded to make trays or corporeal letters.
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Lightness: It weighs little, facilitating the assembly in height.

Make sure you choose the best outdoor signage materials so that your advertising investment does not deteriorate prematurely.

Conclusion

Cheap is expensive outdoors. A deformed sign gives a bad image of a company. Using an aluminum panel guarantees perfect flatness and vivid colors for years.

Frequently asked questions about outdoor sign materials

Can the composite panel be vinyl coated?
Yes, it is the ideal surface for applying cut vinyl or digital printing, thanks to its extra smooth lacquered finish.

Does it withstand hail?
Yes, composite absorbs moderate impacts well without breaking, unlike methacrylate, which can explode in a heavy hailstorm.

How are these materials cut?
The composite is easily cut with CNC, vertical saw or even with cutter and ruler (making several passes) if it is 3mm.

Does the sun erase the print?
That depends on the ink or vinyl, not the panel. It is recommended to always laminate the print with a UV protector to extend the life of the colors.

Can it be painted?
Yes, although it is factory lacquered. If you want to paint it, it must be sanded lightly and primed to ensure the paint holds.

Is it too heavy for an old facade?
No. A 3mm panel weighs about 3.8 kg/m2, which is quite light compared to steel or solid wood signs.