Sunboard, also known as PVC foam board, is a staple in Sri Lanka’s signage and printing industry. Its smooth surface, lightweight nature, and compatibility with direct UV and solvent printing make it the preferred choice for everything from indoor retail displays to event branding panels.
If you’re working on a signage project, understanding how to prepare and print on sunboard correctly can make all the difference in quality, durability, and finish. Here’s what professionals need to keep in mind to get crisp and long-lasting results.
Start With the Right Sunboard
All great prints begin with the right substrate. At Jeewa Plastic, we offer high-quality foam boards in a range of thicknesses. For printing purposes:
- 3mm thickness is suitable for lightweight indoor displays
- 5mm thickness offers more rigidity for mounted signage or large cutouts
- White matte surface ensures better ink adhesion and minimal glare
Make sure to use clean, flat boards free from dust or oil before printing.
Ensure Print Compatibility: UV, Eco-Solvent, or Latex
Not all inks work equally well on sunboard. Here are your best bets:
- UV Flatbed Printing: Offers direct adhesion, rich colour output, and faster drying times. Best for outdoor or high-traffic usage.
- Eco-Solvent or Latex: Suitable for printed vinyl mounted on sunboard for vibrant indoor visuals.
Avoid standard water-based inks as they may smudge or flake off.
Lamination for Durability
For prints exposed to moisture, sunlight, or constant handling, applying a lamination layer is key. Choose from:
- Matte lamination for anti-glare finishes and a more premium look
- Gloss lamination to make colours pop, especially for promotional materials
- Cold lamination to prevent warping or melting on thinner boards
Our glossy lamination films provide added protection and scratch resistance for signage applications.
Use Sharp Cutting Tools for Clean Edges
Once printed, use a straight-edge cutter, foam boardcutter, or CNC router for precision trimming. Clean cuts maintain the professional look of your final product, especially for free-standing boards or shaped cutouts.
Pro Tip: If you’re printing large runs, invest in a cutting jig or guide to maintain consistency.
Store Sunboard Properly Before and After Printing
Humidity and improper stacking can cause boards to bend or warp. Always store sunboards flat in a dry, cool area. After printing and trimming, allow the boards to cure fully if using solvent inks before mounting or transporting.