Is This a Temporary or Permanent Installation?

One of the most important questions to ask yourself is whether the installation will be temporary or permanent. Banners are ideal for temporary use — grand openings, sales, events, or promotions — because they are lightweight, easy to hang, and can be relocated quickly. The sides should be reinforced by sewing or heat-sealing to increase durability, especially for outdoor applications.

On the other hand, permanent installations call for signage. Rigid signs can be mounted directly to walls, posts, or buildings, offering a long-lasting and more professional appearance. They are made from sturdy materials like aluminum, acrylic, Sintra (PVC), and more, and are better suited for standing the test of time.

How Important Is Pricing to Your Decision?

If budget is a major concern, banners are the most cost-effective option available. You can get a large-format, full-color banner at a fraction of the cost of a rigid sign. This makes them perfect for short-term or repeat promotions, fundraisers, temporary announcements, or event displays.

However, banners can’t compete with the high-end quality of a well-designed sign. If your brand image, presentation, or appearance is a top priority, a sign provides a more refined, polished look. It’s worth noting that thickness and material composition may also matter to your audience — elements that add depth and presence to your message.

Interior or Exterior Use?

The location of the installation matters greatly. While both signs and banners can be used indoors or outdoors, the materials must match the setting. For example, foam core looks great indoors but won't survive exterior weather. Coroplast is a lightweight and affordable outdoor sign option, but it’s not ideal for long-term use.

Banners also come in different types. One popular choice is mesh banner material, designed specifically for outdoor use in windy conditions. The tiny holes allow wind to pass through, reducing the chance of tearing or damage. Our team at Graphic Impact will guide you to the right material for your intended environment.

What Size Do You Need?

Need something big? Banners have virtually no size limitation. We’ve printed full-color banners hundreds of feet long, and they still maintain crisp visuals and vivid colors. This makes them perfect for large-scale applications like trade shows, building wraps, stadiums, or retail displays.

Signs, while more durable, often have limitations in material sizes. Standard rigid substrates like aluminum or PVC are usually available in panels up to ten feet in length. For larger installations, materials like Lexan are used for oversized sign faces and are often paired with structural framing to support the piece.

Viewing Distance Considerations

How far away will your audience be when viewing the message? If your sign or banner will be viewed from a distance — 6 to 8 feet or more — a banner is an excellent solution. It’s easily readable from afar and can be produced in any size to ensure your message is visible.

At Graphic Impact, we utilize the latest printing technology with vibrant, fade-resistant latex inks. Not only do these inks produce a wider color gamut, but they’re also more environmentally friendly. Our colors seem to “jump off” the material, ensuring your design stands out even at great distances.

Where Will the Sign or Banner Be Installed?

Installation location can heavily influence your choice. For example, if the banner or sign will be hung high on a building or at a sporting event, a banner offers flexibility and ease of placement. However, if your display will be viewed up close — like inside a showroom, retail store, or office — a sign delivers more visual impact and a premium feel.

It’s important to work with a company that has the experience and knowledge to guide you through the selection process. At Graphic Impact, we’ll help you consider all aspects: durability, finish, size, location, weather resistance, and more. There are dozens of material options, and choosing the right one can significantly influence the final result.

When to Choose a Banner

• You're working with a limited budget
• The installation is temporary or mobile
• You need a large-format graphic quickly
• The piece will be viewed from a distance
• You want the easiest and lightest installation method

When to Choose a Sign

• You want a professional, high-quality appearance
• The message will be displayed permanently
• The graphic will be viewed up close
• You need rigid structure or thick material
• You want better long-term weather resistance

Still Not Sure? Let Graphic Impact Help!

With decades of experience and a commitment to the highest print quality, Graphic Impact is your go-to resource for both signs and banners. We produce everything in-house with state-of-the-art equipment, and our team is always available to help you choose the right solution based on your needs and budget.

Contact us today to learn more or get started on your next custom sign or banner project.