Correx board signs have become the go-to choice for businesses, event organizers, and individuals looking for durable, cost-effective signage solutions. Whether you’re advertising a property sale, promoting an event, or creating directional signage, understanding the different printing methods available can help you choose the perfect approach for your needs.
What is a Correx Board?
Correx boards are lightweight, waterproof corrugated plastic sheets made from polypropylene. These versatile boards offer excellent durability while remaining easy to handle and install. The corrugated structure provides strength without adding excessive weight, making correx boards ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications.
5 Popular Ways to Print Correx Board Signs
1. Paint
Paint has always been the first thing that comes to mind when making a sign, like a for sale board, or an advert for an event. Painting a correx board sign is quick, easy and cheap, making it an attractive option for simple projects.
But what if you have to do many boards, or you are not good at painting by hand? What if you need a professional sign and not something looking like finger painting? If you had to add a lot of information or very small text, a hand painted sign board may not be your best option.
For indoor board signs, poster paper or corrugated box works well, but for outdoor board signs you should consider correx boards or PVC banners for better weather resistance.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cheap to make | Not ideal for high volumes |
| Quick to produce | Not very professional looking |
| Ideal for low volume projects | Not ideal for small text or detailed graphics |
| Complete creative control | Requires artistic skill for best results |
| No special equipment required | Time-consuming for complex designs |
2. Screen Printing
Screen printed correx board signs are one of the oldest and most reliable methods for producing high-quality signage. This process involves pushing ink through a mesh screen onto the correx board surface, creating vibrant, long-lasting prints that can withstand outdoor conditions.
Screen printing works exceptionally well on correx boards because the flat surface accepts ink evenly, and the waterproof nature of the material makes it perfect for outdoor applications. This method is particularly popular for estate agent boards, construction site signs, and promotional displays.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent for high-volume production | High setup costs for small runs |
| Vibrant, long-lasting colors | Limited to simple designs |
| Cost-effective for large quantities | Color changes require new screens |
| Professional finish | Not ideal for photographic images |
| Suitable for simple designs with solid colors | Minimum quantity requirements |
3. Vinyl Cutting
Vinyl cutting involves using computer-controlled cutting machines to create precise graphics from colored vinyl sheets, which are then applied to the correx board. This method offers exceptional precision and is perfect for creating professional-looking signs with clean lines and solid colors.
The durability of vinyl on correx boards makes this combination ideal for long-term outdoor signage. Many businesses choose vinyl cut correx signs for their professional appearance and weather resistance.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely precise and professional | Limited to solid colors |
| Wide range of vinyl colors available | Cannot reproduce photographic images |
| Excellent outdoor durability | More expensive for complex designs |
| Perfect for text and simple graphics | Requires skilled application |
| No minimum quantities | Time-intensive for detailed work |
| Can create layered designs |
4. Sticker Printing (Digital Print and Apply)
Modern digital printing technology allows for the creation of high-quality stickers that can be applied to correx boards. This method combines the versatility of digital printing with the convenience of application, making it possible to achieve photographic quality results on correx board signs.
Stickers can be printed with full-color graphics, photographs, and complex designs, then applied to the correx board surface. This approach offers the flexibility of digital printing while maintaining the durability benefits of correx boards.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Full-color printing capability | Potential for bubbling or lifting over time |
| Can reproduce photographs and complex graphics | Requires proper application technique |
| Suitable for small and large quantities | May be affected by extreme weather conditions |
| Professional finish | Additional material costs |
| Quick turnaround times | Possible edge wear in high-traffic areas |
| Cost-effective for detailed designs |
5. UV Direct Printing
UV direct printing represents the cutting edge of correx board sign production. This method of correx board printing involves directly onto the correx board surface using UV-curable inks that are instantly dried and cured using UV light. The result is a permanent, scratch-resistant, and weatherproof print that becomes part of the board itself.
UV printing on correx boards produces exceptional quality with vibrant colors, sharp detail, and excellent durability. This method can handle everything from simple text to complex photographic images with equal precision.
Visit our Pinterest page to see more photos of correx board printing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional print quality | Higher cost per unit |
| Permanent, scratch-resistant finish | Requires specialized equipment |
| Excellent weather resistance | Limited to businesses with UV printing capabilities |
| Can print on various correx board thicknesses | May require longer lead times depending on printer availability |
| Environmentally friendly UV inks | |
| No minimum quantities | |
| Fast production times |
Choosing the Right Method for Your Correx Board Signs
The best printing method for your correx board signs depends on several factors:
- Budget: Paint and stickers are most cost-effective for small quantities
- Volume: Screen printing excels for large runs, while UV printing works well for any quantity
- Design complexity: UV printing and stickers handle complex graphics best
- Durability requirements: UV printing and vinyl cutting offer superior longevity
- Timeline: Paint and vinyl cutting can be fastest for simple designs
Do you need help deciding which printing method is ideal to print your correx board signs? Contact us today!
Material Considerations: What Makes Correx Special?
Correx boards are made from corrugated polypropylene, making them naturally waterproof and resistant to most weather conditions. The material is lightweight yet strong, and its smooth surface accepts various printing methods well. Understanding that correx is not foamex (a different foam-based material) or standard corrugated cardboard is important when selecting your printing method.
Frequently Asked Questions About Correx Board Signs
Is Correx waterproof?
Yes, correx boards are completely waterproof. The polypropylene material naturally repels water, making correx board signs ideal for outdoor use in all weather conditions.
How strong is Correx?
Correx boards are surprisingly strong for their weight. The corrugated structure provides excellent rigidity while remaining lightweight and easy to handle.
Can Correx be used outside?
Absolutely! Correx boards are specifically designed for outdoor use. They’re UV resistant, waterproof, and can withstand various weather conditions.
How to lay Correx?
When installing correx board signs, ensure the corrugated channels run vertically to prevent water accumulation. Use appropriate fixings for your surface and consider wind loading for larger signs.
What is the difference between foam board and Correx board?
Foam board (foamex) has a solid foam core, while correx has a corrugated plastic structure. Correx is more durable, completely waterproof, and better suited for outdoor applications.
Can you write on a Correx board?
Yes, you can write on correx boards with permanent markers, but for professional results, consider proper printing methods.
Can you cut Correx?
Correx boards can be easily cut with a sharp knife or saw. Always cut perpendicular to the corrugated channels for the cleanest edge.
Can you laser cut Correx?
While possible, laser cutting correx can produce toxic fumes. Mechanical cutting is recommended for safety reasons.
Can Correx boards be recycled?
Yes, correx boards are recyclable as they’re made from polypropylene plastic. Check with local recycling facilities for specific guidelines.
What is a spreading board used for?
A spreading board in the context of correx signs typically refers to larger format boards used for wide-coverage advertising or information displays.
What material is Correx?
Correx is made from corrugated polypropylene plastic, which provides excellent durability, weather resistance, and printability.
Can I paint on Correx boards?
Yes, correx boards can be painted, but proper surface preparation and paint selection are important for best results and longevity.
What is the alternative to Correx board?
Alternatives include foamex (foam PVC), dibond (aluminum composite), acrylic sheets, and PVC banners, each with different properties and applications.
Is Foamex or Correx better?
The choice depends on your specific needs. Correx is better for outdoor durability and cost-effectiveness, while foamex offers a smoother surface for detailed printing.
How strong is the Correx board?
Correx boards offer excellent strength-to-weight ratio. A 4mm correx board can support significant weight while remaining flexible enough to resist cracking.
Are Correx signs waterproof?
Yes, correx signs are inherently waterproof due to the polypropylene material and closed-cell structure.
Are corrugated signs waterproof?
Corrugated plastic signs (like correx) are waterproof, but corrugated cardboard signs are not. Always specify the material when ordering.
Is Correx heat resistant?
Correx has moderate heat resistance but can warp in extreme temperatures. For high-temperature applications, consider alternative materials.
Is Correx UV resistant?
Yes, correx boards have good UV resistance, though prolonged exposure to intense sunlight may cause some color fading over time.
How long do corrugated plastic signs last?
With proper printing methods and installation, corrugated plastic signs can last 2-5 years outdoors, depending on environmental conditions.
Is Foamex food safe?
This depends on the specific type and manufacturer. For food-related applications, always verify food safety certifications.
How long does corrugated plastic roofing last?
While not directly related to signage, corrugated plastic roofing can last 10-20 years, indicating the durability of the material.
Is Foamex durable?
Foamex is durable for indoor applications but less weather-resistant than correx for outdoor use.
Conclusion
Correx board signs offer an excellent balance of durability, cost-effectiveness, and versatility. Whether you choose paint for a simple project, screen printing for high volumes, vinyl cutting for precision, stickers for complex graphics, or UV printing for premium quality, correx boards provide an ideal substrate for professional signage.
Consider your specific requirements for budget, quantity, design complexity, and durability when selecting your printing method. With the right approach, correx board signs can provide years of effective advertising and communication for your business or event.
Ready to create your correx board signs? Contact a professional signage provider to discuss which printing method best suits your project needs and budget.
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