What each one is
- ACP – aluminium composite panel: two thin aluminium skins bonded to a plastic core.
- Chromadek – steel sheet with a pre-painted finish.
- Correx – fluted (corrugated) plastic board, like plastic cardboard.
Side-by-side comparison
Looks
ACP is the flattest and most premium, with a smooth, modern finish. Chromadek looks clean but more utilitarian. Correx can show its fluted texture and looks temporary up close.
Durability outdoors
ACP and chromadek both handle sun and rain well for long-term use. Correx is made for short-term use; long sun exposure fades print and makes the board brittle.
Weight and handling
Correx is extremely light. ACP is light for its rigidity. Chromadek, being steel, is the heaviest of the three and needs sturdier fixing on large signs.
Rigidity
Chromadek and ACP are rigid; ACP stays particularly flat. Correx flexes and can crease if knocked.
Cost
Correx is the least expensive, chromadek sits in the middle, and ACP usually costs the most. Exact prices depend on size and print; stock board prices show online, and custom boards are quoted.
Shaping and finishing
ACP can be routed into shapes and folded into trays for a deeper fascia. Chromadek can be folded for stiffness on large boards. Correx is easy to cut and punch for cable ties.
When to choose each
Choose ACP when…
- the sign is your main shopfront or building sign and looks matter;
- you want a shaped sign or a backing panel for 3D letters;
- the sign will be seen up close as well as from a distance.
Choose chromadek when…
- you need a tough, long-lasting outdoor board at a sensible price;
- the sign is going on a boundary wall, gate, fence, farm or site;
- you are ordering outdoor safety signs for industrial areas.
Choose correx when…
- the sign is needed for days, weeks or a few months;
- you need many signs cheaply, such as show-day arrows or event directions;
- light weight matters more than durability.
Next steps
Read more on each material: ACP signs, chromadek signs and correx boards. Browse rigid sign boards and property boards online, or request a quote for custom sizes. For other materials, see choosing the right sign material.
