Florida weather can be tough on outdoor business signs. Strong sunlight, high temperatures, humidity, heavy rain, and coastal conditions all need to be considered when choosing materials for exterior signage.
So, what are the best outdoor sign materials for Florida weather? The right choice depends on the type of sign, where it will be installed, and how much exposure it will receive.
Aluminum
Aluminum is one of the most common materials used for outdoor signs in Florida. It is lightweight, does not rust like iron or ordinary steel, and can be used for everything from flat sign panels to dimensional lettering and fabricated sign components.
For businesses looking for durable, long-term exterior signage, aluminum is often an excellent starting point.
Acrylic
Acrylic is commonly used for sign faces, dimensional lettering, illuminated signs, and other architectural signage.
It offers a clean, professional appearance and can be paired with LEDs and fabricated metal components to create illuminated business signs. However, the appropriate thickness, construction, and installation method depend on the particular sign and its location.
Exterior-Grade Vinyl
Vinyl is frequently used for business lettering, window graphics, sign faces, and other exterior graphics, but not all vinyl is designed for the same lifespan or environment.
High-performance exterior films are specifically manufactured to withstand outdoor exposure. Some professional sign films are designed and tested for resistance to UV exposure, temperature, humidity, and salt spray.
For printed graphics, an appropriate overlaminate can provide additional protection against UV exposure, weathering, scratches, and abrasion.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel can be an excellent choice when a business wants a more upscale architectural appearance. It is commonly used for dimensional letters, logos, plaques, and other fabricated sign elements.
The specific grade and finish should be selected for the environment, particularly in coastal areas where signs may be exposed to salt and moisture.
Materials for Illuminated Signs
For an illuminated exterior sign, the sign material is only part of the equation. LEDs, power supplies, wiring, enclosures, and other electrical components also need to be appropriate for the installation environment.
Outdoor electric signs and components should be properly designed and rated for their intended location.
What Is the Best Choice for a Florida Business?
There isn’t one material that is best for every sign. Choosing the best material for Florida outdoor signage depends on several factors, including:
- Where the sign will be installed
- Direct sun and weather exposure
- Distance and viewing angle
- Whether the sign will be illuminated
- Desired appearance
- Building and mounting conditions
- Expected longevity
- Local sign requirements
A storefront sign may require an entirely different combination of materials than a parking sign, window graphic, monument sign, or set of illuminated channel letters.
Custom Outdoor Signs in Fort Lauderdale
At Broward Signs, we create custom outdoor signs in Fort Lauderdale designed around the needs of each individual business and installation.
From dimensional lettering and illuminated signs to window graphics and custom business signage, we help businesses throughout Fort Lauderdale and South Florida choose materials and construction methods appropriate for their projects.
Ready to update your exterior signage? Contact Broward Signs to discuss your project.