Outdoor signage is critical for safety communication, brand visibility, wayfinding, and compliance. But not all signs are created equal. When choosing between aluminium signage and PVC signs, many customers weigh the cost against durability and customisation against lifespan.
Sure Signs has over a decade of experience in designing, manufacturing, and installing high-quality signage throughout South Africa. With more than 10,000 signs in stock and a comprehensive custom signage service, we are proud to deliver compliant, reliable, and long-lasting signage to clients across every sector.
So, which material wins when it comes to outdoor applications—aluminium or PVC? Let’s take a deep dive.
What Is Aluminium Signage?
Aluminium signage refers to signs fabricated from aluminium sheets or panels that are either painted, powder-coated, or laminated with graphics or reflective films. Aluminium is lightweight yet robust and extremely resistant to environmental wear and tear, making it ideal for long-term outdoor use.
Our aluminium signs are manufactured following SANS 1186 Specifications Part 1 and Part 5, ensuring each product meets strict South African visibility, durability, and safety standards.
What Is PVC Signage?
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) signage typically refers to signs made from foamed PVC boards. These are popular for indoor and light-duty outdoor applications due to their low cost, lightweight properties, and smooth printing surfaces. However, PVC signs have limitations in terms of UV resistance and long-term structural integrity when exposed to the elements.
Aluminium Signs vs PVC: Key Differences
| Feature | Aluminium Signage | PVC Signage |
| Durability | Weather-resistant, rust-proof, UV stable | Susceptible to warping, fading, and cracking over time |
| Lifespan | Five to ten-plus years in outdoor conditions | One to three years outdoors, depending on exposure |
| Weight | Lightweight yet sturdy | Very lightweight but less structurally rigid |
| Appearance | Sleek, professional finish; option for reflective films | Good initial finish but may degrade with exposure |
| Cost | Higher initial investment | Lower upfront cost |
| Maintenance | Low; easy to clean and repaint | May require frequent replacement |
| Compliance | SANS 1186 certified (at Sure Signs) | Not suitable for many regulated applications |
| Best Use | Road signs, safety signs, business exteriors | Indoor signs, temporary displays, event signage |
Why Aluminium Signage Wins for Outdoor Use
- Superior Weather Resistance: Aluminium is naturally corrosion-resistant and, when coated or anodised, withstands rain, heat, wind, and UV exposure. This makes it ideal for outdoor conditions where signs are expected to last for years without fading or deteriorating.
- Regulatory Compliance: Sure Signs ensures all aluminium signs conform to SANS 1186-1 and SANS 1186-5 standards, which are essential for safety signage in industries such as construction, mining, transport, and manufacturing.
- Professional Appearance: Aluminium signs offer a sleek, high-end look suitable for business exteriors, directional signage, and branded installations. Their clean, modern aesthetic instantly conveys professionalism and reliability.
- Reflective Options: Aluminium signage can be enhanced with retro-reflective or photoluminescent films, improving visibility at night or in emergencies, something PVC simply can’t match.
- Low Long-Term Cost: While the initial cost of aluminium signage may be higher than PVC, its long lifespan, low maintenance, and compliance benefits result in substantial long-term savings.
When PVC May Be the Right Choice
While aluminium signage dominates outdoor use, PVC signs may still be suitable in specific contexts:
- Temporary installations (e.g., events or short-term promotions)
- Indoor environments with minimal wear
- Budget-limited scenarios where compliance isn’t a factor
Sure Signs can still accommodate these needs with high-quality PVC options, although we always guide clients towards the most appropriate material based on application and environment.
Custom Aluminium Signage by Sure Signs
Whether you need standard safety signage or fully customised aluminium signs, Sure Signs provides a complete solution:
- In-house design and manufacturing
- Bulk production or single-unit orders
- Photoluminescent, reflective, or printed overlays
- Mounting and installation services
- SANS-compliant outputs for industrial sectors
Companies trust our signage in mining, logistics, retail, health, and municipal operations, and we are proud to be one of South Africa’s most reliable signage partners.
Applications for Aluminium Signage
- Road and traffic signs
- Workplace safety signage
- Emergency exit and fire escape maps
- Building directories and business signs
- Security and access control signage
- Hazard communication signs (GHS/ISO standards)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Aluminium Signage
What makes aluminium signage better than PVC for outdoor use?
Aluminium is rust-resistant, UV stable, and far more durable in extreme weather than PVC, making it ideal for long-term outdoor use.
How long do aluminium signs last?
With proper coating, aluminium signs can last five to ten-plus years outdoors with minimal maintenance.
Can aluminium signs be customised?
Absolutely. Sure Signs can custom design, manufacture, and install aluminium signs based on your specific layout, branding, and compliance needs.
Are aluminium signs compliant with South African standards?
Yes. Sure Signs produces signs in line with SANS 1186-1 and SANS 1186-5, ensuring full compliance for safety-critical environments.
Is aluminium signage expensive?
Aluminium signs may cost more upfront than PVC, but their long lifespan and reduced maintenance make them more cost-effective over time.
Can aluminium signs be reflective or glow in the dark?
Yes. We offer options with retro-reflective materials and photoluminescent coatings for night-time visibility and emergency applications.
Do you offer installation services for signs?
Yes. Sure Signs provides a full-service experience, including onsite installation, ensuring your signage is professionally mounted and positioned.
Aluminium Is the Outdoor Champion
While PVC signage has its place in the signage world, aluminium signs remain the gold standard for outdoor use. Their strength, longevity, compliance compatibility, and professional aesthetic make them the go-to choice for clients seeking long-term value.
We don’t just manufacture signs; we craft long-term solutions that protect, inform, and represent your business or organisation with quality and clarity.
Ready to upgrade to durable, compliant aluminium signage? Contact us today for expert assistance and custom quotes.
We can custom-make safety signage to suit your specific requirements. All photoluminescent signs are available in 150 mm, 190 mm, 290 mm, or 440 mm.