Temporary Vs Longterm Signage

Temporary Vs Longterm Signage

Knowing which is right for you.

Choosing between temporary and longterm signage depends on your business needs, objectives, and budget. Both serve important roles, but understanding their strengths helps you invest  wisely.

Temporary Signage

Best for:

  • Construction sites -temporary health & safety signs, road traffic diversions, branding awareness
  • Promotions, events or celebrations, or temporary campaigns
  • Seasonal sales or limited-time offers
  • Pop-up shops, trade shows, and grand openings

Materials Often Used:

  • Corriboard – 4mm, 5mm or 6mm
  • Vinyl or PVC banners
  • Foamex – 3mm or 5mm
  • Posters
  • Roll Up Displays
  • Metal Road Stands

Pros:

  • Cost-effective for short durations
  • Quick to produce and easy to install
  • Flexible and customisable for specific events
  • Can be replaced often without a big budget

Cons:

  • Less durable – not suited for harsh weather or extended use
  • Can appear less professional if overused or poorly maintained

Example:
A retail store advertising a 3-day clearance sale uses a bright PVC banner or corriboard and pavement signage that can be easily removed afterward.

Longterm Signage

Best for:

  • Branding and identifying your premises permanent location
  • Permanent directional signs (e.g., parking or entrance signs)
  • Fire Assembly and Exit Signage
  • Main Building sign – with individual letters or flat 3mm aluminium composite
  • Internal and external Wayfinding and hazard /safety signs in commercial or industrial spaces
  • Internal door signs

Materials Often Used:

  • 3mm Aluminium composite, and or with channel for mounting onto poles
  • Directional Fingerposts signs for poles
  • 3mm / 5mm foamex
  • 10mm / 19mm foamex for shapes and individual letters
  • Weather-resistant materials

Pros:

  • Durable and designed to withstand outdoor conditions
  • Reinforces brand identity and professionalism
  • Delivers long-term ROI with minimal upkeep
  • Adds value to physical presence and curb appeal

Cons:

  • Higher upfront cost
  • Less flexibility — not ideal for quickly changing messages

Example:
A manufacturing company installs a 3mm aluminium composite box sign with foamex individual lettering onto their main building, building trust and brand permanence.

How to Choose the Right Type

Ask yourself:

  • What’s the purpose of this sign?(Branding vs. Promotion)
  • How long will I need it?(Days/weeks or years?)
  • Will it be indoors or outdoors?
  • Do I need to update the message often?
  • What’s my budget?

You can also combine both types. For example, use longterm signage for your main brand presence and supplement it with temporary signage for seasonal campaigns or events.