Foamex & Foam board

Foam board vs a rigid plastic sign board

Foam board is a lightweight, rigid material, a foam core sandwiched between two card or plastic outer layers, which makes it a practical choice for temporary indoor signage, presentations, photo mounting and retail displays where you need something sturdier than paper but don't need the durability of a fully outdoor sign.

Because it's lightweight, foam board is easy to handle, transport and mount without the weight of a rigid plastic or metal alternative, but that same lightness means it isn't suited to permanent outdoor use, where wind, rain and repeated handling would damage it far faster than a material like Dibond or Correx.

Mounting and finishing options

Thickness options typically range from a few millimetres up to around 10mm, thicker boards are more rigid and resist bending or warping, useful for a display that needs to stand freely or be handled repeatedly, while thinner board is fine for something that will be mounted flat against a wall or in a frame.

Edges on foam board can chip or dent if knocked, so for anything being transported between venues repeatedly, such as an exhibition display, consider a slightly thicker board or protective corners, and store boards flat rather than leaning them against a wall for long periods to avoid warping.

If you're choosing between foam board and a rigid plastic board like Dibond or Correx for the same job, the honest answer usually comes down to how long the display needs to last and whether it will go outdoors. Foam board wins on cost and light weight for a single indoor event; a plastic board wins on durability for anything reused or exposed to weather.

Mounting method affects the finished look as much as the board itself, a photo or design can be face-mounted with a gloss or matte laminate for extra protection and a more premium finish, worth asking about if the board is for a client presentation or gallery-style display.

About Foamex & Foam board

Order foamex & foam board from Star Printers in Tooting, London. Pricing depends on your exact requirements — call 020 8123 6699 or contact us for a quote.

Large format print covers signage, display boards and anything printed at a bigger scale than standard paper sizes allow, from shopfront signs and estate agent boards to exhibition graphics and directional signage. Material choice matters as much as the print itself: foam board and Correx are lightweight and cost-effective for temporary use, while Dibond and aluminium composite boards are more rigid and durable for longer-term outdoor signage.

Best for

signage, display boards, exhibitions, directional information and retail promotion.

What to confirm

Finished dimensions, material, where it will be displayed and the artwork scale.

Need help with your file?

Not sure about bleed, resolution or the best material, or don't have finished artwork at all? We offer a free design service to get your file print-ready. Call 020 8123 6699 or contact us before placing the order.

Can I order for a tight deadline?

Call us with the product, artwork and deadline before travelling or arranging delivery. We will confirm the production options available for your job.

Foamex & Foam Board Sizes & Thickness

Sizes	A3, A2, A1, A0 and custom sizes on request
Thickness	5mm standard, other thicknesses on request
Use	Lightweight display boards for indoor or short-term outdoor use

Not sure what suits your job? Call 020 8123 6699 or contact us and we'll confirm before you order.

Foamex & Foam board: frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Foamex and standard foam board?

Foamex is a rigid PVC foam board, generally more durable and moisture-resistant than standard foam board.

Can these boards be cut to a custom shape?

Ask us when ordering, we'll confirm what's practical for your design.

Are they reusable for repeated events?

Yes, with careful handling they can be reused, ask us about a more durable option if it will be used frequently outdoors.

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