Are you looking for a good and cheap way to make your signs pop? Corrugated plastic sign boards are a smart choice for businesses. They are light, strong, and can handle bad weather. You can move them easily and use them in many ways. Plastic sign boards can be folded or shaped for different jobs. Many businesses pick a corrugated plastic sign board because it is cheaper and lasts longer than other choices. With these features, you can make cool displays that work inside and outside.
What is a Corrugated Plastic Sign Board?
Definition and Structure
A corrugated plastic sign board is made from polypropylene plastic sheets with a fluted structure, which consists of small channels running through the board. This structure combines strength and lightweight properties, making the sign board durable and easy to handle. The flutes enhance the board’s rigidity while maintaining a low weight, which makes it resistant to damage during transport or installation. Additionally, polypropylene is chemically inert, so it resists reactions with oils, solvents, and water, making it suitable for use in demanding environments. This material is widely used across industries, including packaging, displays, and outdoor signage.
What is Chemical Inertness? Chemical inertness refers to a material’s ability to resist chemical reactions with other substances, such as oils, solvents, or water. Polypropylene’s chemically inert nature means it does not easily react or degrade when exposed to chemicals or environmental factors, ensuring its longevity and stability in various conditions.
Sign Material: Polypropylene and Fluted Design
- Polypropylene is the primary material in corrugated plastic, known for its high strength and ability to withstand rough usage. It is a high-impact copolymer, which improves strength and provides moisture resistance.
- The fluted design is a twin-wall structure: two plastic layers are separated by channels (the flutes), enhancing rigidity and providing excellent impact resistance without adding significant weight.
- Compared to corrugated fibreboard, corrugated plastic is more durable and lighter than wood, making it a superior choice for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Unique Properties: Lightweight and Weather Resistance
- The lightweight nature of corrugated plastic makes it easy to carry, set up, and relocate without requiring special tools or a large installation team.
- Weather resistance: The material is highly resistant to UV radiation, rain, and wind, ensuring long-term performance in harsh outdoor conditions. It does not degrade easily when exposed to various weather elements, making it an ideal choice for outdoor signage.
- Waterproof and durable: Its chemical and water resistance ensures that the sign board remains intact even in wet environments, reducing maintenance and replacement costs over time.
Corrugated Plastic Sheet Manufacturing
Extrusion and Lamination Process
You may wonder how corrugated plastic sheets get strong and smooth. The answer is the extrusion and lamination process. Manufacturers melt polymer to make layers stick together. This makes each sheet tough and dependable. Here are the steps in the process:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Co-extrusion joins layers with melted polymer. A film goes between two base layers. |
| 2 | A thin layer covers another base and moves through cool rollers. This makes a strong bond. |
| 3 | Many layers of melted polymer are pressed and joined to bases with heat or pressure. |
| 4 | The finished product is a multi-layer film. It has different strengths and keeps things out. |
| 5 | The process is fast and clean. No glue with chemicals is needed. |
Thickness and Strength Variations
When you pick a corrugated plastic sheet, you can choose how thick and strong it is. The thickness changes how you use the sheet. Thin sheets are good for short-term signs or crafts. Thick sheets work better outside or for tough jobs. Here is a simple guide:
| Thickness (mm) | Application Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| 2mm | Temporary signs | Light, bends easily, not very strong |
| 4mm | Standard signs | Good mix of bending and strength |
| 6mm | Long-term use | Stronger, great for outdoor signs |
| 8mm and above | Heavy-duty use | Very strong, can take the place of wood |
You can use corrugated plastic sheets for signs, crafts, ads, reusable boxes, and dividers in warehouses. Picking the right thickness and strength helps your project work better. If you want a sign to last, use a thicker sheet. For quick jobs, a thin sheet saves money and time.
Note: Always pick the right thickness for your project. This helps you get the best results and not waste materials.
Key Advantages of Corrugated Plastic Sign Boards
Lightweight and Easy Handling with Corrugated Plastic Signs
For temporary signs that need to be moved frequently, corrugated plastic sign boards are an excellent choice. These boards are significantly lighter than many other materials, including PVC boards that are commonly used for temporary signage. Here’s a comparison:
| Material | Weight (lb/sq ft) |
|---|---|
| Corrugated Plastic Board | 0.30 |
| PVC Sign Board | 0.55 |
As you can see, corrugated plastic boards are nearly half the weight of PVC boards, making them much easier to carry and handle. This is particularly important for projects where signs need to be moved, installed, and taken down frequently. For instance, in construction or event signage, you’ll often find yourself needing to change locations or update information. The lightweight nature of corrugated plastic simplifies this process, saving time and labor.
If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of lightweight materials for road signs that need to be relocated frequently, check out our next blog: The Advantages of Lightweight Materials for Portable Traffic Signs in Frequent Relocation Scenarios.
Example Scenario: Weight Savings for a Temporary Construction Project
Let’s consider a typical construction project requiring 50 temporary sign boards (e.g., directional, warning, safety, traffic control signs). Each sign is about 24″ × 36″, which is a common size for construction signage, resulting in 6 square feet (ft²) per board.
- For Corrugated Plastic Boards: The weight is typically around 0.16–0.30 lb/ft².
- Each 24″ × 36″ board weighs approximately 1.5 lbs (6 ft² × 0.25 lb/ft²).
- For 50 boards, the total weight would be approximately 75 lbs.
In contrast, if we used PVC Boards (which are commonly used for temporary signs), their weight is generally around 0.55 lb/ft².
- Each 24″ × 36″ PVC board would weigh approximately 3.3 lbs (6 ft² × 0.55 lb/ft²).
- For 50 PVC boards, the total weight would be around 165 lbs.
Durability of Corrugated Sign Boards in Harsh Conditions
Corrugated plastic sign boards are designed to endure rain, wind, and sun exposure, making them ideal for temporary signage in tough environments. Here’s why:
- Longevity: These boards can last 1 to 2 years outdoors. Made from polypropylene, they resist UV degradation, unlike cardboard or paper-based boards, which deteriorate quickly when exposed to sunlight.
- Weather Resistance: Corrugated plastic boards offer better UV resistance and moisture protection than traditional materials like cardboard. In sunny regions (e.g., Arizona), they withstand prolonged UV exposure without losing strength, though color fading may occur. In humid environments (like Florida), they are more resilient than paper signs, which weaken when wet.
- Extreme Temperature Performance: In hot climates (e.g., California), these boards can handle expansion and contraction without cracking, and they remain functional in cold regions (e.g., Alaska) without becoming brittle.
To learn more about how long signs last and the factors that affect their durability, maintenance, and updates, check out our next blog: How Long Do Traffic Safety Signs Last? Understanding Durability, Maintenance, and Updates.
Cost-Effectiveness Compared to Other Sign Materials
When managing a project, cost is always a priority. Corrugated plastic sign boards are significantly cheaper than other materials like PVC, which is commonly used for temporary signage. Here’s a detailed comparison:
| Material | Price per 4×8 Sheet | Durability |
|---|---|---|
| PVC | $100–$150 | Medium |
| Corrugated Plastic | Less than $100 | Low |
- Corrugated plastic is the most affordable option, with prices for a 4×8 sheet typically under $100, making it ideal for projects with tight budgets.
- PVC boards are more expensive, typically ranging from $100 to $150 per sheet, offering medium durability, suitable for temporary or mid-term use.
Real-World Application: Cost Calculation for Temporary Sign Replacement
Let’s assume a construction project requires 100 road signs. These signs are replaced every 12 months due to project updates or rebranding. Here’s how the cost breaks down:
Formula for Cost Calculation:
- Total Material Cost = Number of Signs × Price per Sign
- For corrugated plastic:
- Cost per sign: $100 (for a 4×8 sheet)
- Total cost for 100 signs: 100 × $100 = $10,000
- Replacement cost per year: $10,000 (replaced annually)
- For PVC:
- Cost per sign: $125 (average price per 4×8 sheet)
- Total cost for 100 signs: 100 × $125 = $12,500
- Replacement cost per year: $12,500 (replaced annually)
Cost Savings Calculation:
- Annual savings by choosing corrugated plastic:
$12,500 (PVC) – $10,000 (corrugated plastic) = $2,500 savings per year - Percentage savings:
($2,500 savings ÷ $12,500 original cost) × 100 = 20% savings
By choosing corrugated plastic over PVC, you can save 20% of the cost, which is $2,500 per year for a typical construction project with 100 signs that need to be replaced annually.
Versatility for Multiple Uses
Plastic sign boards can be used in many ways. They work for yard signs, real estate, and events. You can also use them for boxes, shipping, and building sites. Here is a table to show some uses:
| Industry/Application | Examples |
|---|---|
| Signage and Advertising | Yard signs, real estate signs, political signs, special events signage. |
| Packaging and Shipping | Custom boxes, shipping containers, protective inserts. |
| Construction | Temporary structures, site protection, construction barriers. |
| Re-usable Applications | Custom boxes, privacy screens, storage bins. |
If you want a sign that can do many jobs, choose plastic sign boards. You can cut, print, and shape them for any need. Buying corrugated plastic sheets gives you lots of options.
Sustainability and Recyclability
When choosing materials for signage, corrugated plastic boards stand out as a sustainable option. These boards are made from polypropylene, a recyclable plastic that is widely accepted in recycling programs. The fact that they are fully recyclable means they can be repurposed into new products, reducing waste and conserving resources.
- Recycling Process: Corrugated plastic can be recycled through a process that breaks down the material and remolds it into new products, such as more plastic boards, containers, or other industrial items. This reduces the environmental impact compared to non-recyclable materials.
- Environmental Impact: According to studies, polypropylene has a lower environmental footprint than other materials such as PVC or certain metals. For example, polypropylene’s energy consumption during production is significantly lower than PVC, making it a more eco-friendly option for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
- Industry Adoption: Many industries, including construction, event management, and retail, are increasingly turning to recyclable materials like corrugated plastic to meet sustainability goals. Brands that prioritize eco-friendly practices benefit from increased consumer trust and brand loyalty, as sustainability is a growing demand in the market.
Common Uses for Plastic Sign Boards
Plastic sign boards are used in many places. People like them because they are easy to use. They work well for lots of different jobs. Let’s see some top ways people use plastic sign boards.
Traffic and Construction Signage
You see plastic sign boards at building sites and on roads. These boards help keep workers and drivers safe. You can use them for yard signs, barriers, and dust covers. They also work for temporary shelters. Here is how they help:
| Application | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Temporary roofing material | Stays strong in bad weather, saves money |
| Surface protection for walls/floors | Light, does not break easily |
| Site barriers | Blocks sun and water, lasts a long time |
| Dust containment during construction | Cheap, simple to put together |
Plastic sign boards do not get ruined by rain or wind. You can carry them without trouble and set them up fast. They cost less than other choices, so you save money.
Tip: For short jobs or to protect surfaces, plastic sign boards make things safer and easier.
Outdoor Event Signs: Why Plastic Sign Boards Are the Best Choice
Planning a pop-up event, festival, or outdoor sale? Plastic sign boards offer an effective, affordable, and durable solution for your outdoor signage needs. Here’s why they are perfect for outdoor events:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Durability | Impact-resistant: Plastic sign boards are less likely to break or crack under heavy handling or outdoor conditions, ensuring your signs remain intact throughout the event. |
| Weather Resistance | Waterproof and rot-resistant: These boards won’t absorb water, ensuring they stay durable and visually appealing even if exposed to rain or humidity during the event. |
| Lightweight | Easy to move and set up: The lightweight design allows for fast installation and relocation, perfect for quickly changing event displays or repositioning signs during the event. |
| Customizability | Flexible design: You can easily cut the plastic boards into any shape, allowing you to create custom signs that fit your event’s theme and stand out from the crowd. |
| Economical | Low cost: Compared to materials like metal or wood, plastic sign boards are more affordable, helping you manage costs while still providing high-quality signage for your outdoor event. |
Real Estate and Site Safety Applications
In real estate and construction sites, clear signage is essential for both visibility and safety. Plastic sign boards offer a practical solution for these needs, thanks to their weather resistance, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
- Real Estate: For property listings, having a durable, weather-resistant sign is critical. Plastic sign boards can withstand rain and sun exposure without fading or deteriorating, ensuring your “For Sale” or “Open House” signs remain clear and readable. Their lightweight nature also allows for easy installation and repositioning as needed, without needing specialized tools or additional labor.
- Site Safety: On construction sites, warning signs or safety barriers need to be visible, even in harsh weather. Plastic sign boards are an excellent choice as they can stand up to rain and wind without breaking down, making them ideal for temporary safety applications like hazard warnings or traffic control. They are easy to carry, so workers can quickly set them up or move them as the site evolves.
Corrugated Plastic Sign Boards vs PVC Signs
PVC Sign Characteristics
PVC signs are durable and versatile, making them a popular choice for many applications. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and ideal for both long-term and short-term signage needs. PVC is known for its impact resistance, making it a good option for moderate outdoor conditions.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Durability | Can last 3–5 years outdoors, depending on grade and environmental conditions. |
| Weight | Lightweight and easy to handle, though heavier than corrugated plastic. |
| Cost | More affordable than aluminum, but more expensive than corrugated plastic for short-term use. |
PVC signs are weather-resistant but can degrade over time with prolonged exposure to extreme conditions.
Corrugated Plastic Sign Boards: Cost and Flexibility
Corrugated plastic sign boards are the most cost-effective option for temporary signage or large-scale projects.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Cost | Lower cost than PVC and aluminum, ideal for bulk purchases. |
| Lightweight | Easy to transport and set up, perfect for short-term projects. |
| Customizability | Can be cut, printed, and shaped to fit various needs. |
Durability Comparison for Outdoor Use
When it comes to outdoor durability, PVC signs offer better longevity than corrugated plastic but aren’t as durable as aluminum.
| Property | Corrugated Plastic Signs | PVC Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Less durable | More durable than plastic, but less than aluminum |
| Weather Resistance | Waterproof, but not UV-resistant long-term | More weather-resistant, but can fade over time |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier than corrugated plastic, lighter than aluminum |
| Longevity | Typically lasts 2 years outdoors | Typically lasts 3–5 years outdoors |
Why Choose One Over the Other?
- For Short-Term Use: Corrugated plastic is ideal for temporary projects where low cost and ease of handling are key.
- For Medium-Term Use: PVC signs offer better durability for real estate or construction sites that need moderate exposure to outdoor conditions.
- For Long-Term Use: For signs that need to last several years, PVC provides a better solution than corrugated plastic, but aluminum is the best for extreme durability.
Choosing the Right Signage Material
Assessing Project Requirements
Selecting the right signage material depends on various factors specific to your project’s requirements. Here’s a breakdown of key considerations to guide your decision-making:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Durability | For long-term outdoor signs, choose materials with high impact resistance and structural integrity, like aluminum or PVC. For short-term or temporary applications, corrugated plastic may be sufficient, offering a cost-effective solution. |
| Weather Resistance | Choose materials that can withstand rain, UV exposure, and extreme temperatures. PVC and aluminum offer superior weather resistance, while corrugated plastic can handle moderate outdoor conditions but may degrade faster with prolonged sun exposure. |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Your signage’s design should align with your branding or event theme. Customizability plays a significant role here—PVC and corrugated plastic are highly printable and can be easily shaped to match the design needs, whereas aluminum offers a more premium finish. |
| Cost Efficiency | Corrugated plastic is the most cost-effective material, especially for short-term use or large-scale signage, while PVC offers a balance between affordability and durability. Aluminum is the most expensive but provides the best long-term value for permanent signage. |
| Sustainability | Consider eco-friendly materials if sustainability is a priority. Corrugated plastic is recyclable, but PVC and aluminum may offer better recyclability and longer life cycles in the context of their intended use. |
| Maintenance Strategies | Materials like aluminum require minimal maintenance, as they are resistant to rust and wear. PVC and corrugated plastic may require periodic replacements, especially for weathered signage exposed to harsh conditions. |
When to Use Corrugated Plastic Sign Boards
Plastic sign boards work best for many applications. You can use them indoors for safety signs or A-board warnings. They are great for temporary signs, placards, and freestanding displays. You see them at sports fields as pitchside advertising boards. These boards are durable and lightweight, so you can move them easily. They resist water and do not rot or rust. If you want a sign that is affordable, plastic sign boards are one of the cheapest options. You can cut them into custom shapes and print bright colors. They are perfect for UV printing, which makes your message easy to see.
Tip: Use corrugated plastic sign board for quick promotions, events, or when you need a sign that is easy to carry and set up.
Customizing Your Sign Board
You can make your sign fit your needs with many customizable options. Plastic sign boards come in sizes like 12″ x 18″, 18″ x 24″, 24″ x 36″, and 36″ x 48″. You can print on one side or both. Some boards have grommets for easy hanging. You can mount them on fences, posts, or stands. These boards are lightweight, so you can install them fast. Quick production lets you respond to new events or promotions right away. Easy customization helps you match your sign to your brand and message.
| Customization Option | Impact on Project Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Quick Production | Lets you react fast to changes or new opportunities. |
| Easy Customization | Makes your sign match your brand and message. |
If you’re curious about the standard sizes for plastic signs and why they’re so important for safety and compliance, check out our next blog: What Is the Standard Size for Street Signs and Why Does It Matter?
There are many good reasons to pick corrugated plastic sign boards for your next project. They offer exceptional cost-efficiency, lightweight handling, and durability for short-term use, making them the perfect choice for temporary signage in a variety of industries. With OPTRAFFIC, you get reliable, high-quality signage solutions that meet your needs without breaking your budget. Whether for construction sites, real estate, or events, OPTRAFFIC’s corrugated plastic boards provide a smart, sustainable option for clear, effective communication.
FAQ
What are corrugated plastic signs called?
Corrugated plastic signs are often referred to as fluted plastic signs, polypropylene signs, or Coroplast signs (a popular brand name). They are made from durable polypropylene material with a fluted, corrugated structure that provides both strength and lightweight characteristics, making them ideal for a variety of signage needs.
How durable is corrugated plastic?
Corrugated plastic is known for its moderate durability. It is impact-resistant and waterproof, making it a great option for outdoor and temporary signage. However, it is not as durable as materials like PVC or aluminum, especially under harsh weather conditions or when exposed to UV rays for extended periods. It is ideal for short-term applications but may degrade faster than more permanent materials.
How long do corrugated plastic sign boards last outdoors?
You can expect your corrugated plastic sign board to last up to two years outside. Sun, rain, and wind won’t ruin it quickly. If you need a sign for a short project or event, this material works great.
Can I print any design or color on a corrugated plastic sign board?
Yes! You can print bright colors, logos, and custom designs on your sign board. Most printers use UV ink, so your graphics stay sharp and vibrant. Your sign will stand out wherever you place it.
Is corrugated plastic good for yard signs?
Yes, corrugated plastic is an excellent choice for yard signs, particularly for real estate, political campaigns, and event promotions. Its lightweight nature, cost-effectiveness, and ability to withstand moderate weather conditions make it a popular option for short-term yard signage. It can be easily mounted on wire stakes or hung from fences, and it’s customizable for specific messaging and designs.
Are corrugated plastic sign boards waterproof?
Absolutely. Corrugated plastic sign boards resist water and moisture. You can use them in rainy weather or humid places. Your message stays clear, and the board won’t warp or rot.
What sizes are available for corrugated plastic sign boards?
You can choose from popular sizes like 12″ x 18″, 18″ x 24″, 24″ x 36″, and 36″ x 48″. Custom sizes are also possible. Just ask your supplier for the best fit for your project.
