PVC foam boards are one of the most popular materials for signage in Sri Lanka. Lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to print on, they’re a go-to for event planners, advertisers, and display makers. But when signs move outdoors, the weather becomes a challenge. If not protected, PVC foam boards may warp, fade, or peel under rain or harsh sun.
Here’s how to weatherproof PVC foam boards so your signage lasts longer, performs better, and looks sharp in any season.
Use Laminates and UV-Protective Coatings
One of the most effective ways to weatherproof PVC foam boards is by applying a laminate layer. This transparent film acts as a shield against rain, moisture, and sunlight. It helps prevent printed graphics from fading and adds a layer of scratch resistance.
UV-protective coatings also reduce sun damage. For foam boards used in billboards or roadside signage, this coating ensures that colors stay vibrant and the surface doesn’t yellow over time.
At Jeewa Plastic, foam boards are compatible with a variety of finishing layers making them adaptable to short-term event use or long-term outdoor campaigns.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Use: Know the Difference
Foam boards used indoors don’t need weather resistance. But outdoor signage must withstand humidity, direct sunlight, and even wind exposure. When preparing a foam board for outdoor use:
- Always laminate or seal the surface
- Avoid direct contact with standing water
- Elevate or frame the board to reduce contact with wet surfaces
Foam board stands with protective edging can help lift signs off the ground, reducing water absorption through the bottom edge.
Choose the Right Tools and Adhesives
Cutting foam boards for signage should be done with clean-edged blades or laser cutters to prevent fraying. Rough edges absorb moisture more easily. Therefore, smooth edges should be sealed with clear tape or edge strips when displayed outdoors.
For mounting or attaching PVC foam boards to walls, metal frames, or fences, use waterproof adhesives or rust-proof screws. Outdoor-grade double-sided tape may also be used for temporary signage.
Jeewa Plastic recommends foam board adhesives that remain strong even in heat or humidity, especially for roadside or event banners that require easy setup and takedown.
Tips for Seasonal Durability
In Sri Lanka, foam board signage must handle heavy rains in one season and high heat in another. To extend lifespan:
- Avoid placing signs in full sun for long periods
- Reinforce corners and edges with tape or framing
- Store unused signage flat in a dry, shaded space
- Use bold, UV-resistant inks when printing
For semi-permanent signage such as branding at a shopfront or real estate project consider mounting boards within acrylic or aluminum casings for added protection.
Where to Buy Outdoor-Ready Foam Boards in Sri Lanka
Jeewa Plastic supplies high-quality PVC foam boards that can be laminated, cut, and weatherproofed for outdoor use. Whether you’re planning a corporate event, launching a promotion, or building reusable signboards, their product range is made for local conditions.
Standard and custom sizes are available, and their team can advise on weatherproofing methods for your exact signage needs.
Weatherproofing PVC foam boards doesn’t take much but it makes a big difference. With the right coatings, tools, and adhesives, your signs will last through rain, sun, and time. At Jeewa Plastic, signage materials are built to stand up to the elements so your message stays clear, visible, and intact wherever it’s seen.