Foam board signs are versatile and effective for a range of applications—whether it’s promoting a sale, displaying a menu, serving as a symbolic check for an event winner, or more. These signs are lightweight, easy to transport, and customizable, making them an excellent choice for short-term use in trade shows, events, or retail promotions.
However, while foam board signs have numerous benefits, it’s important to acknowledge their limitations as well. We believe in providing you with a transparent perspective on all the pros and cons, so you can make a well-informed decision before making a purchase. In this article, we’ll highlight both the advantages and potential drawbacks of foam board signs, ensuring you have the full picture when considering your options.
Foam Board Sign Pros:
Foam board signs offer an extremely cost-effective solution for businesses, making them perfect for use in places like restaurants or small grocery stores. Their affordability allows you to purchase multiple signs to display a variety of messages—such as a menu board in a restaurant or sales promotions in a grocery store. Compared to other forms of advertising, foam board signs are significantly less expensive.
In addition to being budget-friendly, these signs are lightweight, which makes them easy to transport and rearrange. For businesses that regularly attend trade shows, expos, or conventions, foam board signs are a practical option for displaying your branding or messages at multiple events. For example, grocery stores can use foam boards with dry erase laminates to easily update weekly specials and move the signage around the store as needed.
Another key advantage of foam board signs is their versatility in display options, making them incredibly easy to set up and position in a variety of ways. You can place a foam board sign on an easel, making it perfect for trade show booths or presentations.
Foam board signs are also adaptable for use on walls, windows, or any flat surface. You can use Velcro patches or Command™ Strips for quick installation and removal without damaging surfaces. Alternatively, for a hanging display, you can drill holes into the foam board and hang it with string or other materials.
Foam Board Sign Cons:
While foam board signs are lightweight and easy to move, they do require careful handling. Unlike metal or more durable materials, foam board is prone to damage if not transported or stored properly on a flat surface. Its delicate composition makes it susceptible to bending, creasing, or breaking when mishandled.
Another downside is their relatively short lifespan compared to sturdier signage options. Larger foam board signs can begin to warp after about 60 days, especially in humid environments, as the material tends to absorb moisture. To extend their longevity, it’s best to store foam board signs indoors in a cool, dry place.
Foam board signs are designed primarily for indoor use. When exposed to outdoor elements like heat, rain, or wind, they quickly degrade and lose their structure, making outdoor use a very temporary solution at best. If you need a more durable alternative, consider upgrading to Gator Foam board signs. Gator Foam is an improved version of standard foam board, featuring a polystyrene foam core encased between two wood-fiber veneers. This enhanced construction offers greater strength, durability, and resistance to warping while still being lightweight and versatile.
In Closing:
That’s the full breakdown—honest, transparent, and upfront. As we emphasized at the start, we value being straightforward with our clients, whether they’re existing customers or considering us for the first time. If you’re weighing the pros and cons of foam board signs and still have questions, we’re here to help. Visit our website or give us a call at (800) 614-8040 or (813) 447-4770. We’ll make sure you get the answers you need to make the right decision!
