Vinyl banner printing isn't that complicated if you have all the requirements. The design, accessories, and even the printing company can be planned, ensuring a seamless, on-time process. But when it comes to the materials, choosing the most appropriate one now factors in the banner's use and longevity.
Each type of vinyl banner offers different strengths, and understanding their differences and advantages can help you choose the right option without guessing or overspending.
Vinyl Banner Deep Dive: Best Uses and Designs for Each Banner Type
13 oz. Standard Vinyl
Uses:
- The 13 oz. Standard vinyl banners are often used in storefronts, retail sales displays, trade shows, conferences, community events, grand openings, school functions, and other short to medium-sized outdoor promotions.
- It is also a great option when you want a banner that installs easily and does not need to withstand harsh weather.
Design tips:
- Standard vinyl usually come in two finishes:
- The high-gloss finish adds shine to the banner's surface, enhancing its vibrant images and design.
- The matte finish reduces glare and keeps text readable in bright lighting.
- Banner printing is straightforward and can capture your design layout properly.
- Bold texts, important information, and branding are highly visible and can be seen from a distance.
- They are also compatible with grommets and pole pockets, which gives you several mounting choices.
- Add hemming to its edges to improve its outdoor use.
18 oz. Heavy-duty Vinyl
Uses:
- The heavy-duty vinyl is the right pick when you need maximum durability for your promotions.
- It is almost twice as thick as standard vinyl, and that added strength helps it withstand rough weather, strong winds, and long-term sun exposure.
- You will often see this material used for permanent or long-term outdoor signs, street and light-pole banners, building-side advertising, and truck-side or other vehicle-mounted signage.
Design tips:
- The smooth surface produces sharp, high-quality prints, which is helpful when the banner is viewed up close.
- You may also use this material if you want double-sided printing.
- You can also choose the right finish to protect the design and improve longevity.
- Most heavy-duty banners feature reinforced hemming or double-stitched edges to enhance durability.
9 oz. Mesh Vinyl
Uses:
- Mesh vinyl is designed for windy environments and is used as an oversized banner.
- Even though it is lighter than solid vinyl, it is very reliable for outdoor use.
- It is a top choice for fence wraps, construction barriers, and large building banners.
- Mesh vinyl is also sometimes used for sports banners, especially when displayed in outdoor fields.
Design tips:
- Avoid small text or fine details, as perforations can reduce clarity.
- Go for large, bold graphics made for long-distance viewing.
- You may also want to reinforce its hem to keep it flat and durable, improving its usefulness in windy areas.
Installation and Finishing Options
Choosing the right banner material is just one part of the banner-printing process. The finishing options also play a big role in how well it holds up and how easily it can be displayed. You can choose which finishing and installation option to add to your banners.
Grommets
These metal-reinforced holes make installation simple and protect the banners from ripping when tied securely. Add grommets if you want to hang the banner using rope, hooks, zip ties, or fence ties.
Hemming
The edges are folded and sealed to create a stronger border. This added reinforcement works well for large banners and outdoor displays intended to be up for long periods.
Pole Pockets
These fabric sleeves are added so you can fit a pole or rod to the banners. Use these for installing street pole banners, hanging displays, or any setup that needs a clean, draped look.
Frequently Asked Questions
A.
18 oz. heavy-duty vinyl lasts the longest because it is thicker, stronger, and more resistant to harsh weather.
A.
While the small perforations allow wind to pass through and let in a slight amount of light, the mesh banner isn't entirely see-through, and you can still see your design from a distance.
A.
Yes. Both 13 oz. and 18 oz. vinyl support double-sided printing, while mesh is typically limited to single-sided designs.
A.
Both mesh and heavy-duty vinyl have their advantages when printing large banners.
- Choose mesh if you want a stable banner displayed in open, outdoor environments.
- Go for heavy-duty vinyl if you are promoting long-term, and the banner is attached to a building wall or a billboard.
A.
The 13 oz. vinyl works best indoors because of its vibrant print, is less expensive, and is easy to mount.
The best vinyl banner material depends on several factors: the environment, how long the banner will stay up, and the type of promotion you want seen. At the same time, pairing the right material with the appropriate finishing, such as grommets, hemming, or pole pockets, can extend your banner's longevity and keep it secure and readable in any setting.
Once you have the correct banner type for your promotions, upload your first designs to UPrinting.com, and we'll help you print vibrant, attention-grabbing vinyl banners to display for people to see.
