Aluminum, acrylic, PVC and wood are the most popular materials used for custom commercial signs. What makes these materials the most popular is their durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal.
Aluminum is another lightweight, rust-resistant material best suited for outdoor signs. Acrylic offers a modern, high-end appearance and comes in many dynamic colors. PVC is cheap, waterproof, and perfect for internal or external signs.
Wood brings a traditional, organic feel that works well with more rustic or elegant design styles. Every material has its own special uses, allowing for a more tailored approach to fit your business’s exact needs.
Things such as your location, budgetary constraints, and branding all play a role in which materials are used. Throughout this guide, we’ll emphasize the advantages of each choice.
There is so much more to our materials—you will instantly find the right choice for your custom commercial sign project!
Key Takeaways
- Selecting the ideal material for your custom commercial sign is crucial to enhancing your brand’s image. This makes it perfect for ensuring long-lasting durability across a variety of environments.
- Metal signs, especially those made from aluminum or stainless steel, provide years of value with their durability, weather resistance and contemporary designs.
- Acrylic, PVC, and corrugated plastic are inexpensive materials that give you some amazing versatility. They take away the guesswork out of customizing an all-purpose solution for all sorts of applications.
- Wood signage provides beautiful, natural designs with a rustic touch, but it requires maintenance and care for the environment to last.
- Glass and fabric signs are best for more specialized branding needs. They give you creative visual possibilities, like transparency or diffused light, to suit your artistic vision.
- Sustainable materials such as recycled or recyclable plastics and eco-friendly manufacturing practices are more important than ever, enabling brands to minimize their environmental footprint and build consumer confidence.
Common Sign Materials: An Overview
Choosing the correct material for outdoor commercial signs is key when it comes to producing long-lasting, attractive, effective signage. From longevity to flexibility, each material provides unique attributes that make it the right choice for different applications and environments.
Getting a better grasp of these options will allow you to make more intelligent choices that work both with your branding and practical needs.
Metals: Strength and Style
Metal signs are popular for their long-lasting quality and tone.
The pros of metal signs are numerous. Aluminum is traditionally a lightweight, corrosion-resistant material, which makes it a classic choice for outdoor environments. Its array of finishes, ranging from brushed to painted, provide adaptable branding opportunities.
Stainless steel not only offers a luxurious appearance, it delivers strength no other material can match, enhancing brand perception while holding up to the elements. A comparison of aluminum, stainless steel, and other metals shows their unique benefits:
| Material | Advantages | Common Uses |
| Aluminum | Lightweight, corrosion-resistant | Outdoor, storefronts |
| Stainless Steel | Durable, premium aesthetic | Luxury brands |
| Dibond | Non Corrosive, weather-resistant | Real estate signs |
Plastics: Versatility and Value
Other materials, such as plastics like Sintra board and Gator board, provide a good balance of cost and functionality. Sintra board is an economical alternative that still lasts outdoors really well, making it a good option for outdoor directional or promotional signage.
Feather-light and featuring water and scratch resistance, Gator board is well suited for interior use, producing stunning, full color prints. Ultra Board provides a sharp aesthetic, perfect for retail Point of Purchase displays or trade show exhibits.
Wood: Natural and Rustic
When it comes to construction materials, wooden signs offer deep warmth and beauty to a place’s brand. Durable hardwoods such as cedar are naturally resistant to rot and decay, whereas plywood provides a budget-friendly option.
Regular sealing prevents weather damage, extending their lifespan.
Metals: Popular Choices & Benefits
Metal signs have long been the industry standard for commercial signage. Their durability, versatility and high-end aesthetic make them a great option for commercial businesses. When deciding on the best metal for a project, considerations such as appearance, budget, and individual application use take precedence.
Aluminum: Lightweight Champion
Among metals, aluminum is particularly valued for its strength-to-weight ratio, giving it the versatility to be used in both interior and exterior applications. Its durability makes sure it can survive the severest elements, while its light weight makes for easy installation and transportation.
For design flexibility, aluminum can be painted, anodized or powder-coated to create colorful, vibrant looks. For instance, brushed aluminum creates a clean, contemporary look, sometimes preferred by tech firms or retail locations. Because aluminum doesn’t rust and needs little care, companies save on lengthy maintenance and costs.
Stainless Steel: Enduring Elegance
Stainless steel is the ultimate choice when it comes to strength and sophistication. Its resistance to corrosion ensures that it performs consistently even in harsh outdoor environments. This endurance is a major plus in climates with substantial moisture, such as coastal zones.
Its initial price point exceeds that of aluminum, but its increased lifespan frequently makes it a more worthwhile investment. Stainless steel’s polished or matte finishes lend themselves well to luxury and high-end brands looking to convey a premium aesthetic. Because of its heavy weight, this can create challenges on where to install, so it needs a very sturdy mounting option.
Other Metals: Steel, Brass, and Copper
Brass and copper offer an earthy elegance, fitting perfectly within the signage aesthetic. For example, brass is often used on plaques and directional signs. At the same time, copper develops a lovely patina over time, adding to its antique character.
Metal mixtures including stainless steel paired with brass accents can make eye-catching designs. While steel is appreciated for its strength, it often needs protective coatings to resist rust.
Plastics: Versatile & Cost-Effective Options
These flexible, cost-effective, and durable attributes make plastics an industry standard throughout custom commercial signage. Materials including polycarbonate, acrylic, PVC, and corrugated plastic all have unique applications, providing companies numerous options for their design and functions.
Polycarbonate: Impact Resistance
Polycarbonate takes us beyond the ordinary with its astonishing impact resistance. This durability allows it to be the go-to option for areas that are subject to extreme elements or rugged use.
This durability makes sure the sign stands up and is not damaged in high-traffic areas, like transportation centers or factory floors. Its high level of transparency, comparable to glass, provides superior clarity and light transmission.
This last property is particularly important when it comes to illuminated signs, where visibility is key. To improve durability, special additives are used by manufacturers to give the polycarbonate UV resistance.
This procedure protects the material from bleaching and UV discoloration caused by sun exposure. Customization is the other biggest advantage; it can be molded, die-cut, or 3D-printed to fit a company’s individual branding requirements.
Acrylic: Crystal Clear Appeal
Acrylic provides a sleek, sophisticated aesthetic, so it’s a great option for acrylic signs for businesses looking to leave a high-end first impression. Its glass-like clarity elevates designs to new heights, while its reduction in weight makes installation much easier to navigate.
Frequently chosen for lobby signs, menu boards, and displays, acrylic strikes a balance between visual appeal and everyday functionality.
Corrugated Plastic: Lightweight and Economical
Corrugated plastic is a very economical choice for short-term signs. Its lightweight quality helps ensure ease of transport and installation, which contributes to its popularity among political campaigns, real estate professionals, and seasonal promotions.
Popular applications for plastics include yard signs, trade show displays, and temporary signage for special events.
PVC: Durable and Affordable
PVC shines when it comes to durability in an indoor environment, like in this exhibit or these menu boards. With the application of a UV resistant treatment, PVC can even withstand UV rays, keeping its color and style looking fresh.
Wood: Natural Aesthetic & Considerations
Wood offers a natural aesthetic that creates a welcoming ambiance, making it a popular choice for various businesses. It can complement other materials to achieve a refined look and accommodate different design preferences. The cost and overall appeal depend on the specific type and style used.
Maintenance for Wood Signs
Keeping wooden signs in good condition involves regular care and attention. Applying protective finishes can help maintain their appearance, while routine cleaning ensures they stay presentable. Exposure to the elements may affect the surface over time, making occasional refinishing a useful step.
Here are some general upkeep tips:
- Wipe with a soft cloth and mild detergent.
- Apply protective finishes as needed.
- Check for signs of wear and address them promptly.
- Refresh the surface occasionally for a polished look.
Vinyl: Flexible & Customizable Signage
Vinyl signage offers a unique blend of visual appeal and adaptability, making it a standout choice for businesses looking to create an impact. With a range of finish options, it provides a tailored look to match any brand’s style. The right finish can enhance the overall presentation while influencing maintenance needs and durability.
Beyond aesthetics, vinyl signage can be adjusted for different uses, whether for subtle branding or bold, eye-catching displays. Its customizable nature allows it to serve various functions, from temporary promotions to long-term applications.
Vinyl signage also works well across different settings, maintaining its effectiveness regardless of the environment. Whether used for indoor branding or outdoor displays, it provides a lasting impression.
Material Performance: Indoor vs. Outdoor
Whether you’re crafting a temporary sign for an outdoor event or designing permanent wayfinding signage, material selection must match the environment where it will exist. While indoor signs can be subject to easy-to-control conditions, outdoor signage needs materials capable of withstanding severe weather changes and environmental strain.
Each material has different performance in these unique circumstances, and knowing these intricacies is key to longevity and successful installations.
Weather Resistance Factors
While outdoor signage is subject to the effects of weather extremes 24/7, durability becomes a primary consideration. Tough materials such as Sintra and Dibond, for example, allow the artist to thrive in extreme environments.
Sintra, a cost-effective PVC board, balances durability and affordability, while Dibond offers added rigidity and premium performance for demanding applications. These materials naturally resist moisture, wind, and temperature fluctuations, so they are perfect for use outdoors.
In comparison, raw wood—which is aesthetically pleasing, to be sure—sucks up water, needs to be refinished every few years, and ultimately costs more to maintain. When you want extra protection, lamination protects signs behind a clear plastic sheet, shielding them from UV rays and water damage to prolong the lifespan even further.
UV Exposure Effects
Exposure to sunlight can influence the appearance of signage over time. The choice of materials plays a role in how a sign maintains its look, with some options offering more resilience in different environments.
Certain finishes and protective coatings can help preserve the vibrancy of printed designs, ensuring they remain visually striking for longer. Adding specialized treatments can enhance the overall durability and visual appeal of signage.
Humidity and Temperature Impacts
Rapidly changing humidity and temperature levels can cause various materials to crack, curl, or otherwise deteriorate. To take one example, fabric signs can sag in humid weather, and untreated wood will expand.
Weather-resistant plastics such as Coroplast or Sintra are dimensionally stable and thus incredibly durable in extremes of heat, cold, wet, or dry conditions. Energy-efficient production processes and the use of environmentally friendly inks further improve sustainability while maintaining exceptional quality.
This is perfectly in line with responsible manufacturing practices.
Sustainability & Eco-Friendly Signage
Sustainability isn’t just about creating eco-friendly custom commercial signs. After all, it’s a no-brainer strategic move to position themselves to meet growing consumer demand for more sustainable business practices. By sourcing materials from sustainable suppliers, you can equip your signage to encourage more eco-conscious practices.
It’s a simple, direct way to rein in the use of virgin resources. Products like ADA compliant signs, totally produced using 100% recycled content, demonstrate a company’s dedication to sustainability. Further reinforcing this commitment are products manufactured with cleaner energy and 90% less water.
This can go a long way in boosting overall brand reputation and building consumer trust, especially with eco-minded consumers.
Certifications and Third Party Verification
Certifications help serve as the first line of defense in confirming the sustainability of materials. Certifications such as FSC Forestry Certification for wood products or Green Seal for several other signage materials guarantee that materials comply with rigorous environmental standards.
This level of transparency can bolster a brand’s credibility while making it easier for businesses to find reliable suppliers. At It’s a Good Sign, we prioritize sustainability by working with environmentally responsible materials and energy-efficient solutions to create impactful, long-lasting signage.
Building relationships with eco-conscious manufacturers yields even more benefits. Whether it’s making roadways safer or bringing creative solutions like solar-powered signs or LED-lit displays, these manufacturers are at the forefront of innovation. Solar signs are a smart way to use renewable energy, while LED lighting lasts more than 50,000 hours and consumes up to 80% less energy than traditional options. These technologies help reduce environmental impact and lower long-term costs through energy efficiency and minimal maintenance.
Sustainable sourcing and responsible material use also contribute to a future-proof signage strategy. Businesses that embrace these practices not only meet consumer expectations but also enhance their brand reputation by demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Installation & Regulatory Considerations
Considering the best material for your unique custom commercial sign goes beyond looks. Heavy materials affect the installation process as well as structural support. In cities like Los Angeles, it impacts the ability to comply with local regulations, which can differ impacted by neighborhood.
Installation Challenges by Material
Heavier materials like metal or wood demand stronger mounting systems as well as defined structural reinforcements. For instance, a simple round solid wood sign might require hidden brackets or wall anchors to keep everything level after years of gravitational pull.
Lightweight alternatives such as aluminum or high-density urethane (HDU) make it easy. HDU is waterproof and withstands heat, cold and sunlight. It’s great for the outdoors, and it removes the weight and maintenance needs of old-school wood.
Ease of installation is another advantage. Aluminum is a lightweight yet strong metal that ensures fast and easy installation. It can be finished with powder coating to withstand UV degradation, keeping the colors looking rich and beautiful for decades.
Local Regulations and Permits
For example, in Los Angeles, sign codes at times require certain materials, dimensions, or locations depending on the district. Certain neighborhoods might want to prohibit all reflective surfaces to avoid light spill, or a community could establish laws against oversized, ugly cabinet signs.
Understanding these rules is essential to avoid fines or delays. Materials such as composite plastics and aluminum are popular durable choices that meet these standards and provide long-term solutions.
Weight and Structural Support
This helps to minimize excess strain on mounting systems and building facades. The benefits of HDU quickly become clear. It looks like sculpted timber but it’s a fraction of the weight and cost.
Lighter alternatives simplify installation, reducing labor time and expense without compromising on sturdiness or aesthetic quality.
Conclusion
When it comes to custom commercial signs, choosing the right material dramatically affects durability, cost, and overall impression. Materials like aluminum provide excellent strength with a high-tech, industrial aesthetic. Plastics offer more flexibility and cost savings than wood. Wood adds rustic beauty, and vinyl is great for custom shapes and letters. Whether you need something that will last indoors, something for long-lasting outdoor use, or per your green goals, each material has its strengths. Their location, intended use, and your budget help determine which material is best to use.
Each sign communicates a unique story about your enterprise. Choosing the correct substrate makes sure your brand’s narrative shines through and stands the test of time. Make decisions that are right for you and build empathy, awareness, and excitement into your project from the beginning. Reach out to a professional team to bring your ideas to life with a sign that works for you and your space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular materials for commercial signs?
Second most popular would be metal materials, especially aluminum and stainless steel. Materials like black and white acrylic, PVC, and vinyl are a few examples of upfront sustainable materials. These materials are so popular simply because they are durable, versatile, and cost-effective, allowing them to fulfill almost any design need or environmental requirement.
Why is aluminum a common choice for custom signs?
Aluminum is light, strong, and doesn’t rust. It thrives equally as much in indoor and outdoor settings, which is exactly what makes it a great fit for permanent signage. It’s highly customizable with painted finishes or digital graphics.
Are plastics a good option for commercial signs?
Yes! Plastics such as acrylic and PVC materials are inexpensive, malleable, and easy to transport. They’re ideal for commercial signs that will be placed indoors or outdoors, available in multiple finishes and colors. They’re simple to cut and fabricate, which is ideal for unique, imaginative designs.
Is wood a durable material for signage?
Wood provides a rich, natural look and will work in a traditional setting, but is only practical for indoor or sheltered environments. When used outside, it just needs to be correctly sealed and maintained to stave off damage from the elements or moisture. It works great for establishments that need a classy or old-world style.
Can vinyl signs be used outdoors?
So indeed, vinyl is one of the most waterproof and flexible materials available—great for outdoor commercial sign applications. Commonly, it can be found in the banners, vehicle wraps, and window graphics we all love. Vinyl is very customizable, cost-effective, and simple to install or changeout.
What materials are best for eco-friendly signage?
Other good eco-friendly choices are recycled wood, aluminum, and biodegradable plastics. These sustainable materials not only lower environmental footprint, but still provide long-lasting durability and aesthetic. These environmentally friendly signs are perfect for businesses looking to commit to green practices, while attracting new customers with their eco-friendly signage.
How does material choice affect indoor vs. outdoor signs?
Commercial outdoor signs require durable, weather-resistant materials such as aluminum, vinyl, or treated wood. Indoor signs can utilize more delicate materials, such as acrylic or PVC, since they’re not subject to extreme weather. Selecting the appropriate material from the start will save you time and money in the long run.
Enhance Your Brand’s Visibility: Expert Custom Commercial Signs
Your business’s signage is often the first impression customers have of your brand. Well-designed, high-quality custom commercial signs can set your business apart, attracting attention and establishing credibility. Whether you need illuminated signs, dimensional lettering, monument signs, or storefront graphics, having the right signage is essential for maximizing your visibility and professionalism.
At It’s A Good Sign, we specialize in creating premium custom commercial signs tailored to your unique branding needs. With over 30 years of experience in signmaking and a nationwide network of professionals, we deliver eye-catching, durable, and high-performing signage solutions that perfectly align with your brand’s identity. From conceptual design to fabrication and installation, our expert team handles every step of the process with meticulous attention to detail.
Investing in high-quality custom commercial signs ensures your business stands out, day and night. A striking, well-crafted sign boosts credibility, increases foot traffic, and reinforces your brand’s presence in the marketplace.
Don’t settle for ordinary. Contact us today to discuss your vision and let us help you make a lasting impression with the perfect custom commercial sign!
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