Maximize the utility of your signs by using the right materials for your climate and weather.
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Hardboard (also known as Duron)
Advantages
- Strong
- Lightweight
- Inexpensive
- Resists scratching
Disadvantages
- Susceptible to water and humidity
- Can swell
- May peel and separate
Best applications
- Step in frames
- On sign riders
- Hanging panels
Durability
- 12 months
Best areas to use
- Most climates
Plastic Materials
Advantages
- Lightweight
- Resists scratching
- Withstands water, snow and humidity
Disadvantages
- Thinner panels can bow
- May creak or break with force or freezing weather
- Can “yellow” in extreme sunlight or heat
Best applications
- Hanging panels
- Framed panels
- Riders
- Open house signs
Durability
- 18-24 months
Best areas to use
- Suitable for all climates
- Ideal for temperate regions
Aluminum
Advantages
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Takes a reflective coating
- Withstands wet weather without rusting
Disadvantages
- Panels can bow
- Bend and tear when mishandled
- Hot to the touch in warmer areas
- May scratch
- Not ideal in extreme heat
Durability
- 24-36 months with proper care
Best areas to use
- Works well in most climates
Steel
Advantages
- Ultra-strong
- Hangs straight
- Takes reflective material
Disadvantages
- Heavy
- Can scratch
- Bend and tear in extreme conditions
- May rust in wet climates near oceans
Best applications
- Almost all applications
- Best where long life and strength are needed
Durability
- 24-36 months with proper care
Best areas to use
- Suitable for all climates, may rust in certain areas where corrosion is an issue.
Durabond
Advantages
- Very strong
- Light
- Inexpensive
- Takes a reflective coating
- Withstands strong weather
Disadvantages
- Can bend under extreme conditions
- Bend or break under stressful conditions
- Can scratch
- Best applications
- Used in most applications
- Great for frames and hanging signs
Durability
- 24-36 months with proper care
Best areas to use
- Works well in all climates