Choosing the right material for your banner
Banners serve as powerful marketing tools for conveying messages, promoting events and making a statement for your business. They are perfect for creating an impact, and can stand the test of time.
Selecting the right material for your banner is crucial as it can greatly impact both the effectiveness and its longevity.
With a range of different materials to choose from, we will take a look at the pros and cons for each, as well as considering where the banner is going to be used, the impact it may have on the environment, as well as the best way to care for the different materials.
Let’s take a look:
Pros and Cons of Different Materials
PVC Banners
Pros: PVC is a popular choice for banners as it is both durable and versatile. It is weather-resistant, so suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. PVC banners are also usually cost-effective, and can be printed with high-quality graphics.
Cons: PVC is not the most environmentally friendly option. It is not biodegradable so can contribute to landfill waste.
Mesh Banners
Pros: Mesh banners are designed for outdoor use in windy conditions. The holes allow wind to pass through, reducing stress on the banner ensuring it stays in place.
Cons: While the holes make it more suitable for windy conditions, the perforations can affect the clarity of any printed graphics. It therefore might not be ideal for detailed banner designs or high-resolution images.
Fabric banners
Pros: Fabric banners offer a more premium look. They are lightweight, foldable and easy to transport. They are also more sustainable option compared to PVC.
Cons: Fabric banners aren’t as durable as PVC and may require careful handling to prevent wrinkles and possible damage.
Paper banners
Pros: Paper is an economical and eco-friendly option for short-term indoor use. It is easy to recycle and works well for temporary events.
Cons: Paper is not suitable for outdoor use as it is not weather-resistant. It is also more prone to tearing and damage so not suitable for long-term promotions.
Situational Considerations:
Outdoor vs Indoor, Short vs Long Term
Outdoor Banners
Durability is paramount for outdoor banners. PVC or mesh banners are excellent choices due to their weather-resistant properties. UV-resistant inks can also be used to prevent fading in the sun. Mesh banners are more suitable in windy conditions so consider the expected weather and where you are going to position of the banner before deciding your chosen material.
Indoor Banners
Indoor Banners can afford to be more lightweight and therefore focus on the aesthetics of the graphics. PVC and fabric banners are great options for indoor use. They both provide a professional look without sacrificing durability. Paper banners are also suitable for short-tern indoor events.
Short term vs long term use
Consider the length of use for your banner. If you’re only looking to promote a short-term event such as a weekend sale, paper or fabric banners are probably the most cost-effective choice. They are also more environmentally friendly. However, if you’re looking for more long-term promotions such as branding or informational signage, you’re better off considering PVC and mesh banners as they offer more durability.
Environmental considerations:
Biodegradability
It’s important to consider the environmental impact of your chosen material. PVC banners are durable but not biodegradable. Fabric banners are often made from recyclable materials. And paper banners can be recycled.
Sustainability
Nowadays, sustainability is also a key factor when deciding materials for any project. If you’re wanting to show awareness and contribute to sustainability efforts, you may want to consider opting for eco-friendly banners made from recycled materials. Some PVC banners can be made from recycled materials, so make sure you discuss this when choosing your banner material.
How to care and maintain different materials
How to care for pvc banners
PVC banners can be easily cleaned with a mild detergent and water solution. They can then be stored in a cool, dry place when not in use to prevent mould and mildew.
How to care for mesh banners
Mesh banners can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. They can then be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from prolonged exposure to the elements.
How to car for fabric banners
Fabric banners can be machine washed or spot cleaned as needed, following care instructions provided by the manufacturer. They can be easily creased though, so it’s important to avoid folding fabric banners along printed areas so you don’t end up with a massive crease along your key messaging.
Paper banners
Paper banners need to be handled with care to prevent tears and they need to be kept away from moisture to avoid any damage.
Print your banners with Essex Banners
Choosing the right material for your banner involves a lot of consideration. Look the at the pros and cons of each material, where you intend to use it, how you are going to care and maintain it, as well as any environmental implications you may have from your chosen banner. By making informed choices, you can ensure your banner effectively communicates your message while being practical and maintaining your core principles. Check out our guide to banner printing for all the details.
At Essex Banners, we have always taken pride in knowing we have provided exceptional customer service. We’re often the first choice for so many businesses and companies in the Essex area. You can email info@essexbanners.com or call us on 07539837599 for more information! Or fill in our contact form.
