What is Foam Board and PVC Foam Board?-1
2022-06-24
People are often confused by some of the names and terms of the rigid substrate in the signage industry. Two of the more common rigid substrates utilized in signage are foam board and PVC foam board. But, there are some misconceptions and misunderstandings about them.
Here, we`ll try to clarify some of their information that you might have puzzled over, and explain some of the primary advantages and disadvantages to each.
Foam Board : Interior Solution
Foam board is used for a wide range of applications, including interior signage, point-of-purchase displays, posters, presentations, and in model settings.
Typically consisting of an extruded polystyrene foam core with a paper liner on both sides, foam board is very lightweight but relatively strong. It can be propped against an easel without any support. It is a sturdy alternative to standard posterboard.
This cost effective substrate is very suitable for digital direct printing, whether using UV inks, eco-solvent inks, solvent inks, aqueous inks. And it`s easy to cut with a razor-type knife or a digital cutting machine.
However, because of foam board`s exterior paper liner, it should mainly be used only for indoor signage – it won`t perform well to rain or other inclement weather. Plus, because it`s lightweight, it requires extra anchoring if utilized outdoors. Foam board won`t withstand a lot of physical damage – it`s relatively easy to bend or pierced with thumbtacks, so you should be careful in how and where you display it.
Because foam board is lightweight, it`s easily displayed. If you don`t wish to prop it on a freestanding easel, you`ll add an easel back within the production process. Other alternatives include hook-and-loop patches like Velcro, or adhesives like 3M Command Strips.
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