Foamex Boards
Foamex board printing for shop signs and displays. A rigid, smooth PVC board for indoor or sheltered use, cut to size with free artwork set-up.
- No design yet? We set up the artwork free of charge when we print the job.
- Tight deadline? Same-day printing is possible on many jobs if your file is ready early. Call to check first.
- Can't get here? Collect from Gatton Road, or have it delivered in the UK for a quoted charge.
What is Foamex?
Foamex is a popular name for a rigid PVC foam board. Despite the name, it is a hard, smooth sheet, not a soft foam. It is lighter than wood and easier to cut, and it takes a clean print. That makes it ideal for shop signs, wayfinding, menu boards, exhibition graphics and health and safety notices.
Thicknesses and when to use them
- 3 mm is common for small signs and wall-mounted notices.
- 5 mm gives a firmer feel, and is a good all-round thickness for most signs.
- 10 mm adds real presence and depth, and is often used for raised lettering and larger panels.
Thin boards bow if they are large or only fixed at the corners. Tell us the sign's size and where it will go, and we can suggest a sensible thickness.
Indoors or outdoors?
Foamex is at its best indoors or under cover. It does not rot, and it copes with some weather for short to medium periods, but direct sun can make dark boards warp and heat can soften them. For a sign that will sit in full weather for years, Dibond aluminium is the better long-term option. For a short campaign outdoors on a tight budget, Correx is cheaper.
Fixing a Foamex sign
Ask for pre-drilled holes for screws or stand-off fixings, or use strong sticky fixing pads on a smooth wall. Stand-offs add a tidy, more premium look to signs in reception areas. If your sign goes on a wall that gets hot or into direct sun, leave small gaps around screws so the board can expand and contract.
Shapes and cut-outs
Foamex cuts cleanly, which makes it a good choice for logo shapes, arrows and letters. Tell us if you want a custom shape, and supply a vector outline if you have one. Otherwise, we can work out the cut from your logo.
Compared with other boards
Foamex has a smoother surface than Correx, and is much harder and more durable than foam board. It is also far less costly than Dibond, so it is a common choice for shop interiors. We are happy to show you the materials and talk through the differences.
Getting it made
Send your size and artwork, or just your words and logo, and we can set up the design free of charge when we print. We will quote for the size, thickness and quantity and let you know how long it will take. For a sign you need urgently, call us early in the day.
Questions we hear about foamex boards
Can Foamex be used outside?
For short to medium periods, particularly in sheltered places. Dark colours in direct sun can warp, so choose Dibond for long-term outdoor signs.
What thickness of Foamex should I choose?
3 mm suits small signs, 5 mm is a good all-rounder, and 10 mm works for large panels or cut letters.
Can you drill holes for screws?
Yes. Tell us how you plan to fix it, and we can add holes or suggest other fixings.
What is the difference between Foamex and Correx?
Foamex is a smooth solid sheet that looks more refined. Correx is a lighter, fluted plastic that costs less and suits temporary outdoor signs.