Correx, Foamex or Dibond: which sign board should you choose?
Correx, Foamex and Dibond are all rigid materials used for printed signs, but they differ in weight, strength, finish and expected lifespan. The right choice mainly depends on where the sign will be displayed and how long it needs to last.
Correx: best for temporary signs
Correx boards are made from lightweight, fluted polypropylene. They are waterproof, inexpensive and easy to attach to fences, posts and temporary structures. Correx is commonly used for:
- Estate agent and property signs
- Construction and site notices
- Directional event signs
- Temporary outdoor advertising
- Short-term safety information
It is the most economical option, but the fluted surface is less smooth and rigid than Foamex or Dibond. Choose Correx when price and low weight matter more than a premium finish.
Foamex: best for general-purpose signage
Foamex boards are made from solid foam PVC with a smooth matt surface. They provide a cleaner, more professional finish than Correx while remaining relatively lightweight. Foamex is suitable for:
- Retail and office signs
- Exhibition and display panels
- Safety and information signs
- Indoor wall displays
- Medium-term outdoor signage
- Custom dry-wipe boards
Foamex can be drilled, screwed, nailed or fixed indoors using suitable adhesive strips. It is waterproof, but prolonged heat or unsuitable mounting can cause larger boards to bend or warp.
Dibond: best for long-term outdoor signs
Dibond boards are made from a rigid plastic core between two thin aluminium sheets. They remain flat, resist weathering and provide the most durable finish of the three materials. Dibond is often chosen for:
- Permanent business signs
- Construction and safety signage
- Car park and directional signs
- Outdoor advertising
- Signs mounted to walls, posts or frames
It costs more and is heavier than Foamex or Correx, but it is the best option when the sign needs to remain outdoors for a long period. The corners can be sharp, so rounded corners may be advisable where people will regularly handle or pass close to the sign.
Quick comparison
- Choose Correx for low-cost, temporary outdoor signs.
- Choose Foamex for versatile indoor or medium-term outdoor signs with a smooth finish.
- Choose Dibond for rigid, long-lasting outdoor signage.
For short-term indoor displays, presentations or signs placed on an easel, indoor foamboard may be a lighter alternative. Foamboard is not the same as Foamex and is intended for indoor use only.
Preparing your artwork
A press-quality PDF with 5mm bleed is preferred. Keep important text and logos away from the edges, particularly if holes or rounded corners are required. Signs are usually viewed from a distance, so use large text, clear contrast and simple layouts. Avoid very small wording or fine details that may be difficult to read once installed. We check the artwork and email a PDF proof before printing.