Foamex vs Correx vs Aluminium: Outdoor Sign Boards Compared

Three boards, three lifespans. Correx — fluted plastic, estate-agent style — is the cheapest and right for weeks-to-months outdoor use. Foamex — smooth rigid PVC — looks far smarter and lasts 3–5 years outside, the small-business sweet spot. Aluminium composite (often called Dibond) is the premium, near-permanent option for shop fascias.

Head to head

	Correx	Foamex	Aluminium composite
Surface	Fluted, ridged	Smooth, clean	Flat, premium
Outdoor life	Months	3–5 years	10+ years
Rigidity	Flexible	Rigid (3–5mm)	Very rigid
Cost	£	££	£££
Best for	Site boards, events, elections	Shop signs, wayfinding, exhibitions	Fascias, permanent signage

Which should a small business choose?

For a sign that represents the brand daily — Foamex at minimum. Correx's ridges show through print and read as temporary. If the sign is going on a building for the long haul in full weather, aluminium composite earns its price by simply never needing replacing.

Common thicknesses

Correx: 4mm standard. Foamex: 3mm for sheltered/indoor, 5mm outdoor. ACM: 3mm. Larger boards need more thickness or a frame to stop bowing.

Fixings matter as much as the board

Drilled holes with screw caps, adhesive pads, or channel fixings depending on the wall. Tell us where it's going and we'll drill and finish it appropriately — a great board with the wrong fixing ends up in a hedge.

FAQ

Can these be printed same day? Foamex and Correx often next-day, sometimes same-day; ACM allow a little longer. What artwork do you need? Same rules as posters — 150dpi+ at full size, PDF with 3mm bleed. Do you do estate-agent style boards? Yes, including quantity runs — prices here.