Not Sure Which Signage Material to Use? A Practical Guide for Small Businesses

Every small business knows the power of good signage. The right sign can pull customers in from the street, make your brand look more professional, and create awareness long after someone walks by.

But here’s the problem: with so many material options, how do you know which one to choose? Should you invest in something long-term and durable, or go for an affordable quick-fix?

This guide breaks down the most common signage materials — from lightweight corflute to premium acrylic — and explains when to use each.

Corflute Signs: Lightweight & Affordable

Corflute (corrugated plastic) is the go-to option for temporary or budget-friendly signage. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and perfect for high-turnover campaigns.

Best for:

• Real estate signs
• Event signage
• Short-term promotions

Pros: Affordable, weather-resistant, easy to replace
Cons: Not ideal for long-term use (can fade or warp in extreme sun)

PVC Banners: Flexible & Eye-Catching

PVC banners are the “billboards” of the small business world. They’re great for big, bold messaging and can be hung almost anywhere.

Best for:

• Outdoor events
• Pop-up markets
• Sales and seasonal promotions

Pros: Durable, weather-resistant, can be printed in large sizes
Cons: Can look “temporary” if not framed or tensioned properly

ACP (Aluminium Composite Panels): Sleek & Long-Term

ACP is a professional-grade signage material. Made from aluminium with a composite core, it’s built for durability and a polished look.

Best for:

• Shopfront signage
• Outdoor business branding
• Directional signs in public areas

Pros: Weatherproof, long-lasting, premium appearance
Cons: Higher cost, not suited for short campaigns

Acrylic Signs: Premium & Professional

Acrylic is the material of choice when you want something sleek, glossy, and modern. Often seen in reception areas, it adds a professional polish to your brand.

Best for:

• Indoor signage
• Reception and office branding
• Retail displays

Pros: High-end look, versatile shapes and finishes
Cons: More delicate than ACP, usually for indoors only

SEG Prints & Frames: Modern & Modular

SEG (Silicone Edge Graphics) prints are fabric graphics that slot into lightweight aluminium frames, creating a seamless, modern look.

Best for:

• Trade shows and exhibitions
• Retail displays
• Large-format indoor branding

Pros: Easy to swap graphics, high-quality print, premium look
Cons: Frame system required, more upfront investment

Kedar Edge Banners: Strong & Tensioned

Kedar edge banners are reinforced with a beading edge, allowing them to slot into a frame system and stay taut. Unlike standard PVC banners, these look crisp and professional.

Best for:

• Outdoor retail displays
• Large-scale event signage
• Semi-permanent outdoor installs

Pros: Stays tensioned, professional look, reusable system
Cons: Needs a compatible frame

Choosing the Right Material

When deciding, think about these three factors:

✅ Lifespan – Is this for a weekend event or a 5-year shopfront?
✅ Location – Indoors, outdoors, or on-the-move?
✅ Budget – Do you need the most affordable option, or something premium and long-lasting?

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

• Short-term promo: Corflute or PVC banners
• Long-term outdoor branding: ACP or Kedar banners
• Indoor premium look: Acrylic or SEG prints

Final Thoughts

The right signage material isn’t just about cost — it’s about choosing something that works for your message, location, and audience. Corflute might be perfect for a weekend event, but if you’re branding a shopfront, ACP or acrylic will give you the professional edge.

By understanding the strengths and trade-offs of each option, you’ll save money, avoid common mistakes, and make sure your signage works as hard as you do. 

Visit our products to learn more about what is on offer and how it can benefit your business. WIth our fast turnarounds and free standard shipping Australia-wide you can have exactly the right retail signage you need in just a few days.