Match material to environment
Sign materials
explained.
Vinyl, rigid PVC, aluminium composite, aluminium, acrylic, and more. Match the material to the environment, expected lifespan, and budget.
Self-Adhesive Vinyl
The lowest-cost UK signage material. Printed vinyl with adhesive backing for indoor smooth surfaces — fire doors, painted walls, glass partitions, metal cabinets.
3-5 years indoor; 2 years sheltered outdoor
Rigid PVC (Foamex)
The general-purpose UK signage material. Foam-core rigid PVC sheet — typically 3mm or 5mm thick. Indoor and sheltered outdoor use. Mountable with screws or VHB tape.
5-7 years indoor; 3-5 years sheltered outdoor
Aluminium Composite
Standard for long-life external UK signage. Aluminium-plastic-aluminium sandwich panel — typically 3mm thick. Resists weathering, doesn't bow, accepts screws and rivets.
7-10 years outdoor; 12-15 years with specialist coatings
Aluminium
The most durable standard signage material. Pressed or extruded aluminium sheet, typically 1.5-2mm thick. For high-impact, industrial, and 15+ year outdoor applications.
15-20 years standard; decades with marine specification
Magnetic Vinyl
Flexible magnetic-backed vinyl for vehicle livery, removable signage, and temporary applications on metal surfaces.
2-4 years indoor; 1-2 years sheltered outdoor; less for vehicle use
Frosted Vinyl
Etched-glass effect for window privacy, branded glazing, and decorative window graphics. Lower cost than sandblasted or acid-etched glass.
5-7 years indoor; 3-5 years external glazing
PVC Fabric Banner
Heavy-duty printed PVC fabric for outdoor banners, building wraps, hoarding graphics, and event signage. Reinforced edges and grommets for installation.
2-5 years outdoor depending on exposure
Acrylic
Cast and routed acrylic for premium reception signage, feature lettering, and illuminated faces. Solid colour, polished edge, and three-dimensional applications.
10-15 years indoor; 5-10 years sheltered outdoor
Need help choosing?
Read our materials comparison guide
In-depth guide to matching materials to environment, lifespan, and budget — including a decision tree.
Read the guide →Need help specifying materials?
Tell us about your project and we will recommend the right material for your environment, lifespan, and budget.