Blog | MTA Digital

Durable Exterior Graphics: Best Materials for Longevity

Written by John Sinnott | Sep 30, 2024 11:30:00 AM

The onslaught of relentless winds, sun, rain, and sleet can quickly transform vibrant exterior graphics into shabby and faded remnants of their former glory. To keep your external graphics in good condition year-round, you need a material that strikes the right balance between durability, affordability, and appearance. Whether you are renovating a business façade or designing signage for an outdoor campaign, the materials you select make all the difference to the durability and longevity of your signage. Let’s look at some of the best materials for external graphics and why they could be the perfect fit for your needs.

Key Considerations – Climate, Location, And Budget

First of all, consider the key elements that affect durability before deciding on materials. The unpredictable British weather means that climate is a major factor when choosing materials for external graphics. From the frequent rains of Glasgow to the sporadic sunshine of Brighton, weather conditions can be quite varied at all times of year. Locations in the south-east of England often have sunnier and hotter summers, with higher temperatures and greater exposure to UV radiation that can discolour many external graphics. On the other hand, seaside locations can be windier than inland locations, posing a risk of damage to some materials. Sustainability is another crucial factor – with many UK companies making eco-friendly choices to reduce their carbon footprint. Your budget is also important – balancing cost with quality can be a juggling act when choosing materials for external signage.

1. Dibond: Lightweight And Strong

Although Dibond is a lightweight metal, its innate strength makes it a top contender for many permanent outdoor displays, capable of withstanding the toughest weather conditions without as much as a blink, from blustery winds to occasional heatwaves. Dibond is also incredibly versatile, allowing it to be customised to fit various design needs, and simplifying the installation process. Dibond is also widely recyclable, helping your signage align with the UK economy’s push toward greater sustainability.

2. PVC: Your Versatile Signage Solution

Moving onto PVC, this material is like the Swiss army knife of external signage, being great for both short-term and long-term applications thanks to its affordability and versatility. PVC graphics are especially popular for exterior signage boards because they hold their colour exceptionally well, ensuring that your graphics remain sharp and vibrant over time. PVC signage is also pretty tough against the elements, so you don’t have to worry about them buckling under pressure or fading quickly – perfect for the UK’s varied weather conditions.

3. Plexiglass: Shine With A Glossy Finish

Plexiglass or acrylic graphics are another strong option for external displays, especially if you’re aiming for a sleek and glossy finish. Plexiglass graphics are popular among clothing businesses and premium high-street boutiques, with a gleam in the sunlight that catches every passerby’s eye. That’s the magic of acrylic graphics. Acrylic isn’t just about looks though; it’s also extremely durable and offers a variety of colours, sizes, and shapes to meet the needs of your business. Plexiglass signage can also be translucent, enhancing the clarity and visibility of logos and text under varying light conditions.

4. Mesh Banners: Windproof And Worry-free

Finally, we have printed mesh banners, the unsung heroes of large-scale outdoor signage. If you’re dealing with high-wind areas such as the coastal regions of Cornwall or the open fields of Yorkshire, print mesh banners could be the perfect solution. Their perforated design allows wind to pass effortlessly through, preventing your exterior graphics from turning into unwieldy sails on windy days. Despite being lightweight, mesh banners are incredibly versatile and can cover expansive areas – such as the frontages of large buildings – without compromising stability or visibility.

Next Steps

If you are unsure about the materials you need for your outdoor graphics, please click here to check out our previous case studies, and contact one of our specialists directly if you have any questions.