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Deciding Between Styrene and PVC for Signage Applications
Interstate Plastics carries a wide range of signage, display, and printing materials for indoor and outdoor applications, including point of purchase (POP) displays, direct digital printing, cost-effective prototype plastics, and signage for challenging weather environments. Two of the most cost-effective signage options, styrene and expanded PVC, are used in similar applications, leaving many consumers with a difficult decision. Interstate Plastics is here to help customers make the right choice for their application.
High impact styrene is a common material used for signage and prototyping. Renowned for its high-quality printing surface in comparison to more expensive signage materials, styrene is an excellent choice for indoor applications: it is seen in many POP installations, trade shows, mall kiosks, and temporary signage displays. Styrene is easy to assemble, easy to paint, and works well with common adhesives and solvents to create stands and enclosures. Its outstanding thermoforming characteristics and ease of machinability make styrene an effective alternative for models and prototypes. Styrene can be drilled, threaded, sawed, sheared, punched, and machined. FDA compliant grades are available on special request.
Expanded PVC, also known as “foamed” PVC, is another cost-effective signage material with excellent printing properties that can be used for both indoor and outdoor signage. Expanded PVC has a smooth matte finish surface, ideal for painting and lamination. It can be used for many of the same applications as styrene but is more durable and chemically resistant making it a better option for areas exposed to weather or moisture. The material accepts nearly any form of graphics overlays such as printing and photo mounting. Expanded PVC is entirely UL1975 compliant, has low flammability, and is easy to cut and shape, making it a smart choice for three-dimensional exhibits, displays and stage sets.
Customers don’t have to make the choice alone. Contact Interstate Plastics today for a consultation on the best material for nearly any application.
Interstate Plastics is a full-line distributor of plastic sheet, rod, tube, bar, film, and profiles, as well as plastic accessories, tools and care products. With 10 locations nationwide and an online sales and support team, Interstate Plastics provides full sheets and pallets, simple cut-to-size and complex CNC manufacturing. Interstate Plastics is known for its reputation of selling high-quality products, providing excellent customer service, and superior technical support. All of our products and services are available using the safe, secure and convenient purchasing system on the Interstate Plastics website. For instant help, we're always just a phone call away at (888) 768-5759.