At Project Graphics, selecting the right material for your light pole banners is more than just a
choice—it’s an investment in both aesthetics and longevity. The material, or substrate, you
choose can significantly impact the visual appeal and durability of your banners, ensuring they
look great and last as long as you need them to. Here’s a guide to help you make the best
choice for your banner program.
Choosing the Right Substrate
Marine Acrylic is best for outdoor use and can last over 5 years, while vinyl and poly acrylic are more budget friendly with a lifespan of 1-2 years. Marine Acrylic is a top choice for those seeking durability and vibrant color retention in their banners. Screen Printed Marine Acrylic offers more vibrant colors and the best longevity, while Dye dispersion Marine Acrylic offers higher detail with a shorter lifespan. However, not all Marine Acrylic fabrics are created equal. They come in three main categories—Standard, Deluxe, and Premium—each offering different levels of quality and cost. The Standard option provides the best value, particularly when used in single ply construction, making it ideal for budget-conscious projects. Deluxe offers slightly enhanced quality and more color options, while Premium is the most expensive, delivering superior durability, longevity and even more color options. Regardless of which grade you choose, all Marine Acrylic fabrics share the same potential for long-term use. The primary differences in cost arise from the choice between single and dual ply construction and the method used to apply the print.
Marine Acrylic Banners: Screen Printed for Durability
Marine Acrylic banners that are screen printed are renowned for their long-term durability and
vibrant color retention. This method is particularly effective for spot color designs, where specific
colors are applied to a colored fabric background. For dark-colored fabrics, a single ply
construction—where the design is printed on both sides—is often sufficient. However,
lighter-colored fabrics typically require dual ply construction, where the fabric is printed on one
side and sewn back-to-back to prevent shadowing. This additional step increases the cost but
ensures a more polished appearance and enhanced durability. With regular maintenance, such
as annual inspections of banner mounts and hardware, these banners can last up to 10 years,
though wear and tear often become noticeable after 5-6 years.
Marine Acrylic Banners: Dye Dispersion for Full-Color Impact
For those seeking vibrant, full-color designs, Marine Acrylic banners printed using dye
dispersion offer an excellent solution. These banners are always constructed with dual ply to
support the complex printing process and maintain the integrity of the graphics. While the
full-color impact is striking, the lifespan of dye-dispersion printed banners is generally
shorter—around 2-3 years—due to the nature of the printing process. Additionally, certain
colors, particularly reds, are more prone to fading, so it’s important to consider how your design
choices might affect the banner’s longevity.
Vinyl Banners: A Cost-Effective and Vibrant Option
Vinyl banners are a popular choice for those in need of a cost-effective solution that still offers
vibrant colors. These banners are digitally printed and coated with a UV sealant, making them
suitable for outdoor use. However, some customers feel that vinyl banners have a more
commercial look, resembling advertisements more than traditional fabric banners. Despite this,
vinyl banners are an excellent choice for short-term displays, typically lasting 1-2 years.
600d Poly Acrylic Banners: A Budget-Friendly Fabric Alternative
If you prefer fabric over vinyl but need a more budget-friendly option than Marine Acrylic, 600d
Poly Acrylic banners are a great alternative. These banners offer a good balance between cost
and durability, with an estimated lifespan of around two years. However, noticeable fading can
occur after 12-14 months, particularly if the banners are exposed to harsh weather conditions.
To extend their lifespan, rotating your banners seasonally with different designs can keep them
looking fresh and engaging.
We’re Here to Help!
Choosing the right substrate for your light pole banners is crucial for balancing cost,
appearance, and longevity. At Project Graphics, we offer a variety of options tailored to meet
your specific needs and budget. Whether you’re drawn to the long-lasting durability of Marine
Acrylic, the vibrant look of Vinyl, or the versatility of Poly Acrylic, we have the perfect solution for
your banner program. Contact our team to discuss your specific requirements, and let us help
you create stunning banners that will stand the test of time.