1. CREOPRINT PRINT GUIDE

    Correx, Foamex or Dibond: which sign board do you need?

    Correx, Foamex and Dibond are all widely used for printed signs and display boards, but they are very different materials. The best choice depends on where the sign will be used, how long it needs to last, how rigid it needs to be and the finish you want to achieve.

    QUICK ANSWER
    Temporary, versatile or long-term?
    Correx is a lightweight and economical choice for temporary signage. Foamex provides a smoother, more rigid board for professional displays and general signage. Dibond is a strong aluminium composite material suited to more durable and longer-term signs.
    THE THREE MATERIALS

    What's the difference?

    LIGHTWEIGHT & ECONOMICAL
    Correx
    A fluted polypropylene board that is lightweight, practical and cost-effective. It is particularly useful when signs are required for temporary or shorter-term applications, or when larger quantities are needed economically.
    SMOOTH & VERSATILE
    Foamex
    A rigid PVC foam board with a smooth printable surface. Foamex is commonly used for professional signs, displays, wall-mounted graphics, exhibition panels and many indoor or suitable outdoor applications.
    STRONG & LONG-TERM
    Dibond
    An aluminium composite panel with a polyethylene core between aluminium faces. It is rigid, strong and dimensionally stable, making it a popular option for higher-quality and longer-term signage.
    AT A GLANCE

    Correx vs Foamex vs Dibond

    FeatureCorrexFoamexDibond
    ConstructionFluted polypropyleneRigid PVC foamAluminium composite
    WeightVery lightweightLightweightHeavier and more substantial
    RigidityFlexibleRigidVery rigid
    FinishPracticalSmooth and professionalPremium and substantial
    Typical durationShorter-termShort to medium/longer-term depending on useLonger-term
    Relative cost££££££
    Common usesSite signs, estate agency boards, temporary notices, eventsRetail displays, wall signs, exhibitions, general signageBusiness signs, exterior signs, long-term display panels
    WHEN TO CHOOSE CORREX

    A practical choice for temporary signage.

    Correx is particularly useful where cost, low weight and practicality matter more than a premium rigid finish. Construction and site notices, estate agency boards, event signage, directional signs and temporary promotional boards are common applications. Because it has a fluted structure, it does not have the completely smooth, solid appearance of Foamex or Dibond.

    WHEN TO CHOOSE FOAMEX

    A versatile option for professional displays.

    Foamex offers a smooth, rigid surface and is suitable for a wide range of printed display applications. It works well for retail graphics, exhibition panels, information boards, wall-mounted signs and other situations where a cleaner and more substantial appearance is wanted than Correx. Different thicknesses can be selected depending on the size and application.

    WHEN TO CHOOSE DIBOND

    A stronger option for longer-term signage.

    Dibond is worth considering when rigidity, durability and appearance are more important than keeping the board as economical as possible. Its aluminium composite construction makes it suitable for business signage, exterior signs, property and development signage and other applications where a more substantial panel is required.

    OUTDOOR SIGNAGE
    The board is only part of the specification.
    For outdoor signs, material choice should be considered alongside the size of the panel, fixing method, location and expected duration. Wind exposure, mounting and the structure supporting the sign can be just as important as the printed board itself. For larger or longer-term exterior signs, the complete installation should be considered rather than choosing a material solely on price.
    COMMON APPLICATIONS

    Which board should I start with?

    Construction & site signsCorrex for temporary notices and economical site signage; more rigid materials where longer life or greater rigidity is required.
    Retail & exhibitionsFoamex is a popular starting point where a smooth, professional rigid display is required.
    Business signageFoamex or Dibond depending on the location, expected life and level of rigidity required.
    COMMON QUESTIONS

    Sign board material FAQs

    Is Correx waterproof?
    Correx is made from polypropylene and is commonly used for temporary outdoor signs. For outdoor applications, the complete sign should still be considered, including the print, fixing method, exposure and how long it needs to remain in place.
    Can Foamex be used outside?
    Foamex can be used for many outdoor signage applications, but suitability depends on the board thickness, sign size, fixing, location and expected duration. It should not be selected purely on material name without considering how the finished sign will be installed.
    Is Dibond better than Foamex?
    Not automatically. Dibond is stronger and more rigid, while Foamex is lighter and often more economical. For many indoor displays and general signs Foamex can be perfectly suitable; Dibond becomes attractive when greater rigidity, durability or a more substantial panel is required.
    What is the cheapest material for temporary signs?
    Correx is generally the economical starting point of these three materials and is widely used for temporary signs, site notices, events and similar short-term applications. The final cost also depends on size, quantity, print and finishing.
    What material is best for a construction site board?
    It depends on the size, location and required lifespan. Correx is useful for temporary site notices, while Foamex or aluminium composite can suit more substantial applications. Larger external boards also require suitable support and fixing.
    Can these boards be printed in custom sizes?
    Yes. Sign boards can be produced in a wide range of sizes, subject to the material, sheet size and application. Bespoke requirements can also include multiple panels, shaped boards and different finishing or fixing options.
    NEED A SIGN OR DISPLAY BOARD?

    Tell us where it will be used.

    If you're unsure whether you need Correx, Foamex, Dibond or another material, tell Creoprint the size, location, expected lifespan and how the sign will be installed. We can help you choose an appropriate specification.

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    PRACTICAL PRINT ADVICE

    Creoprint produces printed signs and display boards for businesses, construction sites, property companies, events and organisations. Choosing the material around the actual application helps avoid paying for more than you need — or selecting a board that isn't suitable for the job.