MDO replacement

[Signmaker1234]

I use a lot of MDO an I’m looking for a replacement that is faster to complete the project. I’m thinking PVC sheets? Is this a good alternative? If not what do you use? Seems like it would be great especially for hanging signs, as it is available in 1/2” , 3/4”, and 1” thicknesses. Just print and cover the face instead of painting. Seems like it would be easy to cut into just about any shape with a jigsaw or band saw? Thought i would check here before I bought any sheets.

 

[Johnny Best]

Foam board is also great for interior hanging signs. PVC does change shape due to weather conditions as to where you reside. The thicker the material the less warpage.

 

[Billct2]

Depends on size, installation method and exposure. But 3/4-1" PVC can be a good substitute for smaller custom cut hanging signs.

 

[Gino]

As mentioned, it will warp, expand and contract at a very rapid rate. It also becomes quite brittle when outside in the cold for 3 or 4 days in a row. Not as much with the 3/4" or thicker, but you are also adding some substantial weight. You could look into ACM of various thicknesses.

 

[Brandon708]

10 mm coroplast

 

[Signmaker1234]

As mentioned, it will warp, expand and contract at a very rapid rate. It also becomes quite brittle when outside in the cold for 3 or 4 days in a row. Not as much with the 3/4" or thicker, but you are also adding some substantial weight. You could look into ACM of various thicknesses.

What exactly is ACM and how do you cut it?

 

[Billct2]

Aluminum Composite Panel, well known brand Dibond, but many versions and qualities available. Can be cut with regular "woodworking" tools, or sheet metal tools. Straight edges can also be scored & snapped on the 3mm or thinner

 

[Gino]

^ ^ . What he said. Also, for rectangles and simple shapes there are end caps or edging available for various sizes. If you have fancy shapes and whatnot, I still think the wood looks and acts the best. PVC is preferred by many, but doesn't seem to weather as long under certain conditions. I believe it all comes down to a personal preference and what you feel comfortable using.

 

[neato]

10 mm coroplast

A substitute for MDO?

 

[CanuckSigns]

A substitute for MDO?

for some applications yes, we used to use MDO a lot for construction signs, then we switched to 10 mm coroplast, less expensive and much lighter, just as durable.

 

[Brandon708]

A substitute for MDO?

Absolutely. We have switched to 10mm coroplast (about 8 years ago) for almost every exterior sign. We do a lot of commercial real estate signs we use it for. We don't ever suggest MDO unless a customer requests it. We have seen 10mm coro last just as long if not longer than MDO outdoors. It can go between two posts without stringers with a 4x8 sign panel. Like the Canuck said it much lighter and easier to move around the shop and install. Its also about half the price as Primed MDO.

 

[Brandon708]

 

[Geet Faulkner]

alum-panel (plywood with alum faces).. I'd never use coro for large signs... great for cheerleader signs and spinner signs..

 

[CanuckSigns]

alum-panel (plywood with alum faces).. I'd never use coro for large signs... great for cheerleader signs and spinner signs..

The plywood with aluminum faces is called Nu-Alum up here and i've had quite a few issues with it delaminating in a short period of time, even with proper edge sealing on the wood, as a result I don't use it any more.

I really wish you could get ACM in 0.5" -0.75" thicknesses, it would work well for post and panel type signs, and would last quite well, I assume the weight is an issue when it's shipped from China.

 

[Gino]

The plywood with aluminum faces is called Nu-Alum up here and i've had quite a few issues with it delaminating in a short period of time, even with proper edge sealing on the wood, as a result I don't use it any more.

I really wish you could get ACM in 0.5" -0.75" thicknesses, it would work well for post and panel type signs, and would last quite well, I assume the weight is an issue when it's shipped from China.

Agree 1,000%.