Weatherproof Outdoor Signs

Outdoor signs are the frontline ambassadors of businesses, homes, and public spaces. Whether they’re used to promote services, guide visitors, or spruce up an exterior design, outdoor signs face one relentless adversary—Mother Nature. Rain, wind, scorching sun, and freezing temperatures can quickly wear down poorly made signage. 

That’s where High Pressure Laminate Signs come in. These durable, weather-resistant signs are a popular choice for businesses and designers looking for long-lasting signage solutions. But how exactly do you weatherproof outdoor signs? What materials are best? And how much does it cost to make your own long-lasting signs? 

We’ll answer all these questions and more in this ultimate guide to weatherproof outdoor signs! 

How Do You Weatherproof Outdoor Signs? 

Weatherproof outdoor signs are essential to ensure the signage remains vibrant and legible over time. Outdoor signage is exposed to a variety of weather conditions, and improper materials or treatments can cause signs to fade, warp, or break. Here are the key steps to weatherproofing your signs effectively: 

1. Use Durable Materials 

Materials like aluminum, acrylic, and Pressure Laminate Signs are designed to resist weather damage. These options are especially good at withstanding rain, UV rays, and extreme temperatures. 

2. Apply Protective Coatings 

Add a weatherproof coating such as a UV-resistant laminate or a waterproof sealant  to the surface of your signs. This protects against moisture, fading, and other environmental effects. 

3. Choose the Right Mounting Hardware 

Even the most weatherproof signs can fail if improperly secured. Use rust-resistant screws, brackets, or poles to ensure your sign stays in place, no matter the weather. 

4. Proper Placement 

Install signs in locations that minimize direct exposure to severe conditions, like heavy winds or standing water. If possible, place signs under a slight overhang for added protection. 

How to Make an Outdoor Sign Waterproof 

When crafting a sign that will handle even the wettest climates, waterproofing is non-negotiable. Here’s how to make an outdoor sign that repels water effectively. 

Step 1: Start with Waterproof Materials 

Certain materials are inherently resistant to water. For instance, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), acrylic sheets, and High Pressure Laminate Signs don’t absorb moisture, making them great candidates for waterproof signs. 

Step 2: Seal Wooden Signs 

If you’re using natural wood, apply waterproof wood sealants to prevent rotting or warping. Marine-grade varnishes work exceptionally well for outdoor wooden signs. 

Step 3: Add a Waterproof Adhesive Layer 

For printed signs, add a transparent waterproof laminate film. This not only seals the colors and text from moisture, but also protects them from scratches and fading. 

Step 4: Reinforce the Edges 

Pay attention to the edges of your sign. If they aren’t sealed, water may seep in. Use silicone or weatherproof tape to reinforce edges and ensure a watertight barrier.

What Material is a Weatherproof Sign Board? 

Choosing the right material for your signboard is crucial to its longevity and effectiveness, especially if it will be displayed outdoors. With a wide range of materials available, it’s important to select one that can stand up to various weather conditions while meeting your specific needs. Here's a detailed rundown of popular weatherproof materials for signs:

High Pressure Laminate (HPL) 

HPL is a highly durable material known for its UV resistance and waterproof properties, making it perfect for long-term outdoor signage. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and direct sunlight, without fading or deteriorating. Additionally, HPL is highly customizable, allowing you to create vibrant, detailed designs that suit both commercial branding and personal projects. Whether it’s for a business storefront or a garden sign, HPL offers durability and design flexibility.

Aluminum 

Lightweight yet incredibly sturdy, aluminum is a favorite for permanent outdoor signs. It doesn’t rust, making it an excellent choice for environments with high humidity or frequent rainfall. When paired with a protective laminate coating, aluminum signs can last for years without losing their original appearance. They are also versatile and can be used for various applications, from business advertisements to street signs. The sleek metallic finish adds a professional touch to any design. 

Acrylic 

Acrylic is a shatter-resistant plastic material that combines durability with aesthetics. Its excellent waterproofing properties make it suitable for outdoor use, while its sleek, glossy finish gives it a modern, polished appearance. Acrylic signs are often used for business logos or directional signs where style and practicality are equally important. However, while it is tough, it may scratch more easily than other materials, so proper maintenance is key to keeping it looking its best. 

By choosing the right material for your signboard, you can ensure it remains functional, visually appealing, and resilient against the elements, no matter where it’s displayed.

What is the Best Material to Make an Outdoor Sign? 

When it comes to outdoor signs, choosing the "best" material depends on factors like your budget, the look you're aiming for, and the environment in which the sign will be displayed. From professional business needs to personal use, there are a variety of materials available to match every requirement. 

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most popular options for the best sign material based on specific use cases:

For Business Signs 

Aluminum and High Pressure Laminate (HPL) are top choices for business signage. Aluminum is lightweight, rust-resistant, and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it perfect for outdoor use. High Pressure Laminate, on the other hand, offers excellent durability and a sleek, professional appearance, ideal for businesses looking to make a lasting impression. Both materials are designed to endure wear and tear over time, ensuring your sign remains effective and visually appealing.

For Personal Use 

Acrylic or wood (with proper waterproofing treatments) are excellent materials for custom outdoor signs for home or personal projects. Acrylic signs provide a modern and polished look, while wood offers a more rustic and traditional aesthetic. With the right waterproofing coats, wooden signs can resist weather damage and maintain their charm for years. These options strike a great balance between style and durability, perfect for adding a personal touch to outdoor areas. 

For Budget-Friendly Solutions 

PVC foam boards are a go-to choice for short-term or seasonal displays. Lightweight and inexpensive, they’re easy to transport and install. While not as durable as aluminum or wood, PVC foam boards are a great economical option for temporary use, such as promotional events, yard signs, or seasonal decorations. They are versatile and can be customized with vibrant colors to grab attention without breaking the bank. 

Choose an install location that is favorable to viewing and is shielded naturally form the elements. Orientation of the sign makes a big difference

Selecting the right material ensures that your outdoor sign not only looks great but also lasts as long as you need it to. With the right care and consideration, your sign can make a strong impression in any setting!

How to Make an Outdoor Sign That Lasts 

If you want to build an outdoor sign that stands the test of time, it’s essential to focus on three key elements: design, materials, and maintenance. A well-crafted sign not only withstands the elements but also maintains its professional appearance for years to come. Follow these tips to create reliable signage that works hard for your business. 

1. Pick the Perfect Material 

Durability starts with choosing the right materials. For outdoor building signs for businesses, High Pressure Laminate (HPL) or aluminum are excellent choices due to their outstanding resistance to wear and tear. These materials can endure harsh weather conditions - including rain, wind, and intense sunlight - ensuring your sign remains intact and visually appealing over time. 

2. Use Long-Lasting Printing Techniques 

For printed signs, selecting high-quality, fade-resistant inks is key to extending their lifespan. UV-cured ink is one of the best options because it’s both water- and sun-safe, making it ideal for outdoor use. This ensures that your sign’s colors stay vibrant and legible, even after prolonged exposure to the elements. 

3. Implement Regular Maintenance 

Even the most durable, weatherproof signs benefit from regular upkeep. Gently cleaning your signage every few months helps remove dirt, grime, and debris that can accumulate and dull its appearance. Inspect your signs during cleaning to check for damage, such as scratches or fading, and address any issues early to prevent further wear. 

Investing time and effort into your sign’s material, printing, and maintenance will ensure it remains a reliable asset for your business for years to come. Whether your sign is an eye-catching storefront display or an informative directional guide, following these steps will guarantee its longevity and effectiveness.

How Much Does It Cost to Make Custom Signs? 

The cost of making custom signs can vary significantly based on factors like materials, size, design, and the complexity of your project. Whether you're looking for weatherproof outdoor signs for sale or personal use, here’s a quick breakdown to help you understand the potential costs involved: 

Basic DIY Weatherproof Outdoor Signs 

For a budget-friendly option, you can create simple outdoor signs using PVC boards and waterproof adhesive layers. These DIY signs are great for small projects and typically cost between $20-$50. They offer durability for the price, making them ideal for temporary or minimal-use purposes. 

High-End Custom Outdoor Signs for Home or Business 

If you’re looking for a more polished, professional look, consider high-end custom signs. These are often crafted from premium materials like aluminum, HPL (High-Pressure Laminate), or other weather-resistant options. Prices for these professionally made signs can range from $150 to $1,000 or more, depending on the size, design, and extra features like LED lighting, etching, or engraving. These are ideal for businesses or homeowners who want a long-lasting, eye-catching sign. 

Custom Bulk Orders 

For businesses or organizations needing multiple signs, bulk orders can help reduce costs. Many providers offer significant discounts for larger orders, though the exact pricing depends on the quantity, design complexity, and materials chosen. Bulk orders are a great option for streamlining branding across multiple locations or projects while keeping costs manageable. 

By understanding these options, you can choose the best solution to fit your budget and needs, whether it’s a DIY project or a professionally crafted sign.

What Type of Signage is the Cheapest? 

If you’re looking to minimize costs, there are plenty of budget-friendly options for DIY weatherproof outdoor signs or weatherproof outdoor signs cheap without sacrificing too much quality. 

Vinyl Banners 

Affordable, durable, and versatile, vinyl banners are an excellent choice for temporary promotions, special events, or seasonal advertising. Their lightweight design makes them easy to transport and display, while the option to add UV lamination ensures they can withstand outdoor conditions, protecting them from fading or weather damage. Perfect for grabbing attention and delivering your message effectively!

Corrugated Plastic (Coroplast) 

Known as coroplast, this material is a lightweight, durable, and waterproof corrugated plastic that is both versatile and budget-friendly. It’s commonly used for yard signs, election campaigns, and other temporary signage due to its ability to withstand outdoor conditions without easily wearing out. Its affordability and ease of use make it a popular choice for businesses, events, and political campaigns looking for effective yet economical advertising solutions.

DIY Weatherproof Signs 

By getting creative, you can easily make your own custom signs using craft plywood, waterproof paint, and sealant. Start by cutting the plywood into your desired shape and size, then use waterproof paint to design your message or artwork. Once the paint is dry, apply a sealant to protect your sign from the elements, ensuring it lasts whether displayed indoors or outdoors. It’s a simple and fun project that adds a personal touch to any space!

What is the Longest Lasting Sign Material? 

Longevity is a key consideration when investing in outdoor signage, particularly for businesses that want their signs to remain effective and professional over time. Choosing the right materials can make a significant difference in durability and maintenance requirements. 

When it comes to the best sign materials, aluminum and High Pressure Laminate (HPL) stand out as top choices. Both materials are highly weather-resistant, exceptionally durable, and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for long-term outdoor use in various environments. 

Aluminum is lightweight, rust-proof, and known for its strength, which allows it to withstand harsh weather conditions like rain, snow, and extreme heat. With proper care, aluminum signage can last upwards of 10 years without significant wear or damage. Additionally, aluminum is a versatile material that can be customized with vibrant printing or finishes. 

On the other hand, High Pressure Laminate (HPL) is renowned for its unmatched durability. HPL is designed to resist fading, scratches, and environmental wear, even in demanding outdoor conditions. With its ability to endure for decades, HPL provides a long-lasting solution that ensures your signage maintains its appearance and functionality over time. 

For businesses looking to make a smart investment in outdoor signage, aluminum and HPL offer reliable, cost-effective options that deliver on both quality and longevity.

Make Your Outdoor Signs Last with the Right Choices 

When it comes to outdoor signage, making informed decisions about materials, placement, and maintenance can make all the difference. Whether you’re a business owner seeking outdoor building signs for your business, an interior designer sourcing durable materials, or a homeowner looking for custom outdoor signs for home, there’s a solution that meets your needs. 

Remember, weatherproofing isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity for ensuring your signs stand the test of time. By using durable materials like High Pressure Laminate, waterproof coatings, and sturdy mounting techniques, you’ll create signage that performs beautifully in any type of weather. 

Need more guidance on crafting durable outdoor signs? Check out our complete resource on High Pressure Laminate Signs, or reach out to one of our experts for custom advice tailored to your needs!