Expanded PVC Board

Expanded PVC is a foamed plastic board that comes in a wide range of thicknesses to make it suitable for a wide range of applications. Sold under brand names such as Sintra and Celtec, this light weight yet rigid material has a smooth white finish that makes it excellent for signage, framing, POP displays and trade show exhibits. It is produced in the USA and contains no heavy metals. The consistent white matte surface makes it excellent for direct printing or mounting, and it has excellent screw retention, nail hold and staple hold, to make for a wide range of finishing and fabricating options. Available up to 48" x 96" sheets.

Indoor longevity of 5-25 years, outdoor longevity of 6 months to 1 year.

Favorite Features

It comes in a range of thicknesses. It has a smooth finish so it prints well. It's a solid board so it's difficult to dent.

Drawbacks

While rigid, it is flexible, so larger graphics in thinner sheets may not stay flat. PVC expands and contracts with temperature changes, so while it can go outdoors, there are better materials for those applications. Temperature changes can cause mounted graphics to come loose, so direct printing or vinyl graphics are recommended. PVC isn't eco-friendly.

Best Applications

Indoor and outdoor signs. Exhibit, POP and trade show graphics that are flexible or cut into special shapes.