Foamex Signs

Need more help? Check out our full artwork preparation guide below:

What is Foamex?
Foamex is the brand name of a type of rigid PVC Foam sheet material. It is a very popular sign material that performs like a solid plastic material. Also known as Forex, the board is not "foamy" but is very dense for a durable yet lightweight finish. it is available in 3mm, 5mm and 10mm thickness.

Can I have a quotation?
If you have multiple sizes, quantities and artworks we can often offer even better prices by so, by all means, contact us for a quote by filling out our contact us form or call 0208 664 5660.

Is it Foamex the same as foam core?
No. Foam core is a sandwich construction with two hard surfaces. Foamex is a solid PVC board and is far more durable. Foam core (Aka Gatorfoam) is only used for temporary indoor displays, whereas Foamex can be used outside and for longer-term projects.

What size can Foamex signs be?
Sheet sizes up to 8' x 4' (2440 x 1220mm) can be printed. 8'x 4' sheet can be expensive to transport so we may suggest that they are supplied in a couple of pieces. If an 8'x 4' sheet is critical we can arrange for a van delivery in the London area, or for nationwide deliveries quote you a pallet delivery charge which can be quite economical for multiple sheet orders. Custom sizes and customer shapes are available.

What thickness are Foamex boards?
The most popular sizes are 3mm and 5mm. 3mm is popular for smaller interior signs and exhibition graphics. For larger signs, 5mm is more common.

The main difference between 3mm and 5mm thick Foamex board is the rigidity. A thicker and heavier Foamex board will provide a much sturdier and stiffer end result. This is something to be aware of and should be considered when thinking about the intended use of the product. 5mm is much more robust and durable, allowing it to be fixed to railings without worrying about a lack of support. Additionally, a 5mm board can be used in free-standing displays with the use of our Rigid Banner Stand Wedge by supporting the base.

In contrast, a 3mm Foamex board is far more flexible and much lighter. However, the tradeoff is that it is additionally much weaker structurally. 3mm boards should be mounted against a flat, solid surface to provide support, as even fences and railing may pose an issue. The greatest benefit however of the 3mm board is that it can be bent and curved, perfect for display stands designed with replaceable panels and cladding, just insert in the support struts on your stand. Furthermore, due to its lightweight nature, you are able to mount a 3mm board using Velcro. This is commonly the only way to display at some exhibitions on shell scheme walls so you can hang the boards without worrying about a great increase in the additional weight supported.

Which is better for indoor and outdoor use?
Foamex is 100% waterproof and moisture resistant so ideal for indoor or outdoor use. A thicker Foamex board will provide much greater resistance to the effects of the weather. Therefore choosing a 5mm board rather than 3mm Foamex board will likely prolong the effects of the weather, reducing the likeliness of warping in the sun, and breaking due to the effects of the wind. However, both will over time tend to fade at the same rate.

Is foamex eco friendly?
Foamex is not biodegradable but it can be recycled. We print our boards using latex eco-friendly inks. HP Latex inks are water-based and have great outdoor durability and versatility. They are also ideal for indoor use, as they are odourless, non-flammable and non-combustible. Perfect for offices, schools and healthcare environments

How is the print accuracy?
The print accuracy of Foamex is incredible, no matter the thickness of the board chosen, with direct-to-panel printing using fade-resistant latex inks providing long-lasting weather-resistant results. We provide a smooth matt silk finish with any custom graphic you may choose.

What are typical use scenarios?

3mm foamex board
This will normally be used for indoor events, shows, and displays, and will be much smaller in size due to its much-reduced rigidity over the 5mm meaning as size increases so do its chance of breaking. 3mm foamex can be drilled for using screws to attach to walls or being lightweight velcro may be used.

5mm foamex board
The 5mm thick Foamex will have a typical use in much larger signs due to its greater rigidity and robustness. This allows for much longer-term use and is the more suitable solution for outdoor use but is fine for indoor use as well.

Is Foamex waterproof?
Yes, Foamex is waterproof, 100% water-repellent and moisture-proof making it ideal for outdoor use. It is warranted against fading for up to 7 years outdoors and 10 years indoors.

Is Foamex fire retardant?
Foamex is manufactured from a fire retardant raw material. It is a non-inflammable combustible material with a Class 1 fire rating. The polystyrene will burn when in contact with a flame, but will self extinguish when the fire source is removed.

Can Foamex be recycled?
Foamex is an eco-friendly material that can be recycled along with other PVC products.

How quickly will I get my Foamex boards?
Print time depends on our production load. The average print despatch time is 3-5 working days. However, it is always worth talking to us if you have a tight deadline we may be able to squeeze it in. If you want your foamex cut to a custom shape that may add a day to the lead time.
Once your job has been printed we can offer next-day delivery service to virtually all UK mainland locations. For the London area, we can also offer a dedicated same-day delivery service for your Foamex signs after printing and finishing. This service costs a little bit extra but we strongly recommend dedicated van delivery for large signs delivered to local destinations to maximise safety. For nationwide deliveries we can quote you a pallet delivery charge for large panels it tends to work out as the safest and most economical for multiple sheet orders.