When it comes to illuminated signs, choosing the right material can make all the difference in the overall appearance, durability, and effectiveness of your signage. Two of the most popular materials for illuminated signs are acrylic and polycarbonate, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the differences between these materials is essential to ensure you make the best choice for your business needs.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key features, benefits, and drawbacks of acrylic and polycarbonate to help you determine which material is best for your illuminated signs. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which option will provide the most value and visibility for your business.
Why Material Choice Matters for Illuminated Signs
Illuminated signs are designed to attract attention, both day and night, making them a powerful tool for increasing your brand’s visibility. However, not all materials are created equal, and selecting the right one is crucial for ensuring your sign maintains its brightness, clarity, and durability over time.
Important Factors to Consider:
- Durability: How well does the material stand up to weather, UV rays, and potential impacts?
- Clarity and Light Transmission: How effectively does the material allow light to pass through, ensuring your sign is bright and legible?
- Maintenance: How easy is it to clean and maintain the sign?
- Cost: What is the initial investment, and how does the material’s lifespan affect the overall value?
Acrylic for Illuminated Signs
Acrylic, also known as Plexiglas, is a clear, lightweight plastic material often used for illuminated signs. It offers a sleek, glossy appearance that makes colors and lighting pop, providing an attractive and professional look.
Benefits of Acrylic:
- High Light Transmission: Acrylic is known for its excellent light transmission, allowing up to 92% of light to pass through. This ensures your sign will be bright and visible, even from a distance.
- UV Resistance: Acrylic is UV-resistant, meaning it won’t yellow or become brittle when exposed to sunlight, making it a great choice for outdoor illuminated signs.
- Lightweight and Easy to Handle: Acrylic is lightweight, making it easier to install and transport compared to other materials.
- Scratch Resistance: While not completely scratch-proof, acrylic is more resistant to scratches than polycarbonate, ensuring your sign maintains a clean, clear appearance.
Drawbacks of Acrylic:
- Less Impact Resistant: Acrylic is more prone to cracking or shattering upon impact, making it less suitable for areas with high wind or potential vandalism.
- Higher Cost: While the price varies, acrylic tends to be more expensive than polycarbonate.
Best Use Cases for Acrylic Signs:
- Indoor illuminated signs
- Outdoor signs in low-impact areas
- Signs requiring a glossy, high-quality finish
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a premium, polished appearance and want to ensure maximum light transmission, acrylic is an excellent choice for your illuminated sign.
Polycarbonate for Illuminated Signs
Polycarbonate is a strong, impact-resistant plastic material often used as an alternative to acrylic. It’s known for its durability and flexibility, making it a popular choice for signs in high-traffic or high-impact areas.
Benefits of Polycarbonate:
- Exceptional Impact Resistance: Polycarbonate is up to 250 times more impact-resistant than glass and 30 times more resistant than acrylic. This makes it ideal for outdoor signs that need to withstand harsh weather, wind, or potential vandalism.
- High Heat Resistance: Polycarbonate can withstand higher temperatures than acrylic without warping, making it suitable for illuminated signs exposed to direct sunlight or heat.
- Lightweight and Flexible: Like acrylic, polycarbonate is lightweight and can be easily shaped or molded, offering versatility in sign design.
- Good Light Transmission: Polycarbonate allows about 88% of light to pass through, ensuring your sign remains bright and visible, although it’s slightly less clear than acrylic.
Drawbacks of Polycarbonate:
- More Prone to Scratching: Polycarbonate is more susceptible to scratches compared to acrylic, which can affect the sign’s appearance over time. However, anti-scratch coatings are available to reduce this issue.
- Slightly Less Clarity: Although polycarbonate offers good light transmission, it’s not as clear as acrylic, meaning the light may not appear as bright or sharp.
Best Use Cases for Polycarbonate Signs:
- Outdoor illuminated signs in high-impact areas
- Signs exposed to extreme weather conditions
- Signs requiring extra durability and protection
Pro Tip: If you need an illuminated sign that can withstand rough handling, weather, or potential vandalism, polycarbonate is the better choice.
Comparing Acrylic vs. Polycarbonate: Key Differences
Feature |
Acrylic |
Polycarbonate |
|---|---|---|
| Light Transmission | Up to 92% | Approximately 88% |
| UV Resistance | Excellent | Good, but can yellow over time |
| Impact Resistance | Moderate (can crack or shatter) | High (extremely impact-resistant) |
| Scratch Resistance | Better scratch resistance | Prone to scratches without coating |
| Weight | Lightweight | Slightly heavier than acrylic |
| Cost | Generally more expensive | More affordable than acrylic |
| Flexibility | Less flexible | Very flexible and easy to mold |
Choosing the Right Material for Your Illuminated Sign
When deciding between acrylic and polycarbonate for your illuminated sign, consider the following factors:
- Location: If your sign will be installed in a high-traffic area, exposed to extreme weather, or at risk of vandalism, polycarbonate is the safer choice. For indoor or low-impact outdoor locations, acrylic’s glossy finish offers a more polished appearance.
- Budget: If cost is a concern, polycarbonate might be the better option. However, if you’re willing to invest in a premium look, acrylic provides exceptional clarity and UV resistance.
- Design Requirements: Both materials are lightweight and flexible, but polycarbonate offers greater durability, while acrylic offers a more refined and professional appearance.
Maintenance Tips for Acrylic and Polycarbonate Signs
Regardless of the material you choose, regular maintenance is essential to keep your illuminated sign looking its best. Here’s how to clean and maintain each type:
Acrylic Maintenance:
- Clean with a mild soap and water solution using a soft cloth.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or brushes, as they can scratch the surface.
- Apply a UV-resistant coating periodically to prevent fading.
Polycarbonate Maintenance:
- Use a soft cloth and gentle cleaning solution to remove dirt and grime.
- Consider applying an anti-scratch coating to protect the surface.
- Inspect regularly for damage, especially in high-impact areas.
Related Resource: Check out our sign maintenance tips for more advice on keeping your illuminated signs in top condition.
Final Thoughts: Acrylic or Polycarbonate – Which Is Best for Your Illuminated Sign?
Both acrylic and polycarbonate are excellent choices for illuminated signs, but the best option depends on your specific needs, budget, and environment. If you prioritize clarity, light transmission, and a high-end look, acrylic is the way to go. However, if durability and impact resistance are your main concerns, polycarbonate is the better choice.
At Tupp Signs, a trusted sign company in Delaware, we offer a wide range of custom outdoor signs made from both acrylic and polycarbonate. Our team of experts can help you select the perfect material for your illuminated sign, ensuring you get a product that looks great and lasts for years to come.
Ready to create an eye-catching illuminated sign for your business? Contact Tupp Signs today for a consultation!
Visit TuppSigns.com to learn more about our services or call us to get started on your custom sign project.