A captivating design is only half the battle when it comes to creating impactful large format printing. The material you choose to print on is just as crucial—it dictates the look, feel, durability, and ultimate success of your project. The right material can elevate a simple design into a stunning piece of custom business signage, while the wrong one can lead to a short lifespan and a less-than-professional appearance.
With so many options available, how do you know where to start? At AlphaGraphics Seaport, we are experts in pairing the perfect material with every project to achieve outstanding results. This guide will walk you through the most common materials to help you make an informed decision for your next big print. Call our local print shop today.
The All-Purpose Workhorse: Vinyl
When you think of traditional banners, you’re thinking of vinyl. Vinyl is arguably the most versatile and widely used material in large format printing, and for good reason. It’s incredibly durable, waterproof, and UV-resistant, making it the default choice for outdoor applications. Its smooth surface allows for vibrant, high-resolution color reproduction, ensuring your graphics look sharp and eye-catching.
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Best For: Outdoor event banners, long-term building signs, vehicle wraps and decals, durable floor graphics, and storefront window lettering.
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The Takeaway: If your project needs to withstand the elements and last a long time, vinyl is almost always the right answer.
Coroplast: The Lightweight Champion
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If you’ve ever seen a yard sign for a political campaign or real estate open house, you’ve seen Coroplast. This material is essentially a corrugated plastic, similar in structure to cardboard but made of durable, waterproof plastic.
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Characteristics: Extremely lightweight, waterproof, and highly cost-effective. It's easy to transport and install with simple stakes.
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Best For: This is the go-to material for temporary outdoor signs. It’s perfect for event directional signage, construction site notices, and short-term promotions.
Aluminum: The Durable Professional
When you need a sign that is built to last for years, aluminum is the undeniable professional choice. This rigid metal substrate offers superior strength and longevity in any weather condition.
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Characteristics: Rust-proof, waterproof, and highly durable. It has a smooth, professional finish that provides an excellent surface for high-quality printed graphics.
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Best For: Long-term outdoor applications. Think permanent parking signs, building exterior signage, wayfinding signs for a business park, and durable real estate signs that will be used for many seasons.
Acrylic: The Elegant Innovator
For a look of modern sophistication, nothing compares to acrylic. This rigid, clear plastic mimics the appearance of glass but is much more durable and lightweight, making it perfect for high-end interior signage.
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Characteristics: Polished, elegant, and modern. Graphics can be printed on the back surface, creating a beautiful sense of depth. It is typically mounted with decorative standoffs to make it "float" off the wall.
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Best For: Upscale lobby signs displaying your company logo, architectural displays in a corporate office, donor recognition walls, and high-end room number signage.
Mesh: The Windy Day Warrior
Hanging a large banner in a windy location can be a challenge—the solid surface acts like a sail. Mesh solves this problem.
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Characteristics: This perforated vinyl material features thousands of tiny holes that allow wind to pass through it easily, dramatically reducing the load on the banner and its mountings. It's lightweight but still strong enough for outdoor use.
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Best For: Large format banners on construction fences, parking garages, between light poles, or anywhere that experiences high winds. It’s the perfect choice for the often-breezy Seaport environment.
Your Seaport Printing Experts
Choosing the right material is key to a successful project. As you plan your marketing campaigns this August for the upcoming holiday season and 2026 trade shows, think about where your sign will live and what you want it to achieve. At AlphaGraphics Seaport, our experts are here to guide you. We invite you to our studio to see and feel these materials for yourself, ensuring you find the perfect foundation for your big idea. Contact us today!