The attractive and lightweight material for posters and signs is popularly known as a variety of names.
In addition, Foamex printing with foam boards is simple, affordable and beautiful and looks great. If you’re thinking of using foam core boards for your next project here’s everything you’ll require to learn about this beneficial material.
About the Material
How Do You Define Foam Core?
Foam Core is a printing and display material made up of a thick foam core that is sandwiched in between sheets of matt paper. Because the polystyrene core in foam boards is 95-98% air the foam cores are extremely light.
Which Is Better Than Foam Core Or Foamex Board?
There is no distinction between foam core and board. Both refer to printing and display boards constructed from an inner layer of foam sandwiched with two layers of paper. There is also a material called Foam Face Paper, Foam core or Foamex Board, depending on location and manufacturer.
A source of confusion regarding the terminology is the fact that gator board, which is another signage and printing material, has an inner foam core. The distinction between gator board and foam core however the gator board has a face that is wood-fibre veneer. You can find out more about the difference between gator boards vs. foam core as well as different materials on our blog post on comparing the most common signage materials.
What Are The Benefits That Foam Cores Offer?
Foam core comes with a variety of useful characteristics which make it one of the most versatile materials used for displays and signs. Here are some of the notable properties of this material:
A Sturdy Poster Board – Associated to other types of boards, which are generally flexible and do not have a solid core foam core, very strong. Foam core is a rigid material that is flat by itself; it stays straight even when propped up or hanging and is resistant to bending and curving. This is the kind of material to use if it requires a rigid poster board.
Super Light – Although foam boards are heavier than other kinds of poster boards however, the foam core is the reason that contributes to almost no change in weight.
It is simple to print and cut. Foam core makes ideal materials for cutting and printing.
There Are A Variety Of Finishes Available – There are many options for finishing. You can choose to frame or laminate or frame your foam core. Additionally, you can find foam core boards with various finishes, from matte to glossy matte.
Cost-Effective – 5mm Foamex board is one of the most affordable display and printing materials that are available. The low price makes foam boards ideal for both short-term and large-scale projects.
What Are The Drawbacks That Foam Cores Have?
Although we are awestruck by foam core due to its flexibility and convenience, it’s not the best material for every job. There are a few disadvantages to foam core to think about:
Foam Cores Is Not Recommended To Be Exposed To The Elements – Foam boards may shrink, discolour and break down if exposed to excessive sunlight or humidity. Also, be careful not to display them in moist indoor areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.
The Foam Core Can Be Slightly Acidic – It is not recommended to mount archives on foam boards because the chemical nature of the plastic will reduce the value of the object over time.
Foam Cores Are Difficult To Reuse – Foam boards contain underlying polystyrene which is the same composite of plastic that creates styrofoam. Polystyrene is among the most difficult materials to recycle. Even if you place it into the recycle bin there is a good chance it will end in the landfill.
Additionally Foam Core Is Not Biodegradable – If you’re looking for 100% recyclable printing material at the same cost, you can check out Coroplast. A different 100% recycled and more durable choice could be Ultra Board.
Foam core doesn’t withstand wear and tear. Foam core is not able to withstand the punishment of. Make sure you take care to handle the foam core boards carefully!
Are You Able To Display Foam Core Boards Outdoors?
If the weather is warm and dry, placing your foam core board outside will not cause harm.
Be sure to secure them to something solid so they don’t blow off! Make sure you put your foam core board inside to sleep – even a tiny morning drizzle could cause damage to the faces of the hoarding graphics.
Foam Board Sizes
There aren’t any specific or enforced standards for poster sizes However, many companies have decided to use the same sizes for foam cores. The most common sizes that foam cores are:
The standard size for poster boards is 22 28”. This is the typical foam poster size you typically find in the aisles of your local craft shop or in the aisles of your local supermarket.
The thickness of foam cores typically can vary from 3mm to 5mm (1/8th to 3/16ths of an inch). Some foam cores with heavy-duty construction for specific uses can be 10- or 20-millimetres. Coastal Creative carries foam board in 3/16 1/2” and 3/16 inches thicknesses.
The largest size of a poster board is 36 48”. however the majority of large format printing companies will have them in stock.
The Foamex boards that are oversized can be as big as 8’x4″ – Only printers that are specialised (like Us!) can have foam core boards that are this large in stock.
The standard size for movie posters is 27 40”. Foam boards are a popular option for movie posters. Remember that sizes for foam core boards differ based on the manufacturer. Don’t be concerned in case the size you want isn’t on the list.
Applications Of Foam Board
Because it’s light and rigid, as well as inexpensive and inexpensive, foam board is a remarkably versatile material. Here are some fantastic foam core projects that you might be able to use in the near future.
Printing Foam Is A Common Use For Cores
Signs and boards are excellent items for presenting to get your message across to your clients in all of your business activities. These premium boards are ideal for presentations in scholastic or business including lectures, trade events. Businesses frequently design customised hoarding board signs for special events or to promote sales to their clients.
