Full Colour Signs,
Tough Aluminium Composite

Frequently Asked Questions – Full Colour Aluminium Composite Signs

What is an aluminium composite sign?

Aluminium composite is a lightweight but very rigid sign-making material. Our boards are 3mm thick and consist of a waterproof polyethylene core bonded between two thin aluminium faces. They are strong, weather-resistant and will not rot or rust, making them an excellent choice for outdoor signs.

How are your full colour aluminium composite signs printed?

The printing method depends on the size of the sign. Smaller boards under A3 size are printed directly onto the aluminium composite using UV-cured inks. Larger boards are covered with high-quality full colour printed vinyl and finished with a clear protective laminate.

What is direct UV printing?

With direct UV printing, the design is printed straight onto the surface of the aluminium composite board. UV light instantly cures the ink, producing a crisp, durable print. It is particularly suitable for smaller signs containing photographs, logos, detailed graphics and multiple colours.

Why do you use printed vinyl on larger signs?

Printed vinyl is ideal for producing larger full colour signs with detailed graphics, photographs and fine lettering. Once the printed vinyl has been applied to the aluminium composite board, we add a clear laminate to provide additional protection against scratching, weathering and UV exposure.

Can aluminium composite signs be used outside?

Yes. Aluminium composite is specifically well suited to outdoor signage. The material is waterproof, corrosion-resistant and very stable, making it suitable for business signs, directional signs, property signs, information boards, estate agent signs and many other exterior applications.

Will the printed colours fade outdoors?

All printed signage will gradually fade after prolonged exposure to sunlight and weather. However, modern UV inks and high-quality printed vinyl provide very good outdoor durability. Larger vinyl-printed boards are also laminated to give the print additional protection and help it retain its appearance for longer.

Can you print photographs and logos onto the sign?

Yes. Full colour printing is ideal for photographs, company logos, illustrations, gradients and detailed designs. You can supply your own artwork or logo, or our designers can help prepare a suitable design for you.

Can I have any colour on my sign?

Yes. Unlike signs made using individual cut vinyl colours, full colour printing allows us to reproduce an enormous range of colours, shades, gradients and photographic images within the same design.

Can you make the sign to a custom size?

Yes. Aluminium composite signs can be made to virtually any size required. Our prices are based on size brackets, so simply choose the bracket which includes the dimensions you need. For very large or unusual sizes, please contact us for a quotation.

Can aluminium composite signs be shaped?

Yes. As well as standard square and rectangular boards, we can produce shaped signs including ovals, arch tops and many other designs. More complicated shapes can also be produced – please ask us for a quotation.

Can you design the sign for me?

Yes. Our designers can arrange your wording, colours, logo and images to create a professional sign. If you already have finished, print-ready artwork, you can also supply this to us.

What type of artwork should I supply?

For logos and graphics, good-quality vector artwork is ideal wherever possible. High-resolution photographs can normally be used for photographic signs. If you are unsure whether your artwork is suitable, send it to us and we will check it before production.

How should aluminium composite signs be fixed?

Aluminium composite signs can be drilled for screw fixing to walls, fences, timber posts and other suitable surfaces. Depending on the location, they can also be fitted into frames or onto backing boards. Let us know how you intend to display your sign and we can advise on suitable fixing options.

Are aluminium composite signs heavy?

No. One of the major advantages of aluminium composite is that it is relatively lightweight while remaining very rigid. This makes larger signs easier to handle and install than signs manufactured from solid aluminium.

How do I clean an aluminium composite sign?

Normally, warm water with a mild detergent and a soft cloth is all that is required. Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads or strong solvents, as these could damage the printed surface or protective laminate.

Can I order several identical signs?

Yes. We regularly produce batches of aluminium composite signs for businesses, estates, holiday parks, attractions and other organisations. Discounts are available when ordering two or more boards, with additional savings where the signs are identical.