Vinyl banner signs have been used in event marketing and promotion for many years. Vinyl's affordability, durability, and bright surface make it a natural choice for signs, advertisements, and many other uses. Recently, though, new kinds of vinyl have been developed to remedy vinyl's main weakness: the difficulties of applying it evenly to a surface for a seamless visual image.

Modern vinyl banner signs use thin vinyl that is often self-adhesive. In situations where the vinyl itself doesn't have an adhesive backing, pressure-sensitive adhesives have replaced chemical- or heat-sensitive adhesives as the method of choice. Using new adhesives drastically simplifies both the installation and removal of vinyl banner signs.

Alternatives to Vinyl Banner Signs

One popular alternative to printing on vinyl is to print on PVC mesh. PVC mesh is a lightweight but extremely durable printing surface that can hold up during harsh weather, and is perforated to allow for windy environments as well. This makes it a popular choice for outdoor applications such as scaffolding or building screens, light post displays, or massive advertisement banners.

Some kinds of vinyl allow one-sided transparency, as well. Though this has become popular as custom auto graphics, it is also used for many retail spaces and trade show installations. Lightbox displays and duratrans are also popular alternatives to vinyl banners.