Printing Guides

Foam Board vs. Coroplast: Key Differences

Both materials are common for signs, but they perform differently depending on where and how long the sign will be used.

• Material: Foam board has a lightweight polystyrene foam core with smooth paper facing on both sides. Coroplast is a corrugated plastic sheet made from polypropylene.
• Weight: Foam board is lighter and easier to hang, transport, or mount with grommets. Coroplast is slightly heavier but more rigid for outdoor staking or longer displays.
• Durability: Foam board works well indoors and for short-term outdoor use when kept dry. It is not ideal for prolonged exposure to rain or moisture. Coroplast handles weather, moisture, and longer outdoor exposure better.
• Print surface: Both accept full-color printing. Foam board has a smoother paper surface that works well for detailed graphics and photos. Coroplast has a more textured plastic surface.
• Best use: Foam board for indoor displays, presentations, retail, trade shows, and temporary protected outdoor use. Coroplast for yard signs, outdoor directional signs, construction sites, and longer-term outdoor applications.
• Finishing: Both can include grommets. Bright Print Works foam board prices include grommets and tax.

When to Choose Foam Board

Choose foam board when the sign will be used primarily indoors or for short-term outdoor displays that stay protected from weather. It is the lighter option and works well when you need a clean, professional look without the weight of heavier materials.

• Indoor retail displays and point-of-sale signs
• Trade show and event booth graphics
• Presentations, meetings, and visual aids
• Open house and temporary indoor signage
• Short-term outdoor use when the sign is kept dry and protected

Bright Print Works offers foam board in 12″ × 18″, 18″ × 24″, and 24″ × 36″ online, with custom sizes available up to 36″ × 47″. Prices include tax and grommets.

When to Choose Coroplast

Choose coroplast when the sign needs to hold up outdoors for longer periods or in conditions where moisture and weather are a concern. It is more resistant to water and outdoor conditions than foam board.

• Yard signs and outdoor directional signs
• Real estate and construction site signage
• Outdoor event signs that will be exposed to weather
• Longer-term outdoor displays

Coroplast is the better choice when durability against weather is more important than the lighter weight of foam board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foam board be used outdoors?

Yes, for short-term use when the sign is protected from rain and moisture. It is not recommended for long-term outdoor exposure. Coroplast is a better choice for extended outdoor use.

Which material is lighter?

Foam board is lighter and easier to hang or transport. Coroplast is slightly heavier but more rigid for outdoor applications.

Do Bright Print Works foam board prices include grommets?

Yes. All advertised foam board prices include tax and standard grommets.

What sizes are available for foam board?

Standard sizes are 12″ × 18″, 18″ × 24″, and 24″ × 36″. Custom sizes are available up to 36″ × 47″ by quote.

Which is better for real estate signs?

Coroplast is typically preferred for outdoor real estate yard signs because it handles weather better. Foam board can work for indoor open house displays or short-term protected outdoor use.