Temporary Construction Signage: Corflute, Aluminium or ACP?

Quick selection guide

If you need fast, economical site signs for temporary fencing or short runs, choose corflute. For sturdy panels on hoardings or site entries that must stay flat and professional over months, pick ACP. Use aluminium sheet for compact metal plates, small mandatory signs and when a thinner, solid metal panel is preferred.

• Corflute: best for fence-mounted temporary messages, inductions, directional arrows and short-term safety notices.
• ACP: best for hoardings, stable entry boards, site maps, longer-term branding panels and shaped panels.
• Aluminium: best for small rigid plates, gate and door signs, or where a thin, solid metal face is preferred.

Typical thickness guide: corflute 3–5 mm (5 mm preferred outdoors), ACP 3 mm for hoardings and entry boards, aluminium 1.2–2.0 mm for small plates. If you’re unsure, ask our team for a sample pack with all three substrates.

Material snapshot

Corflute is a lightweight corrugated polypropylene sheet commonly used for temporary fence and site signs. It is very light, easy to cable-tie and cost-effective for short-term use.

Aluminium sheet is a solid metal panel. In signage it is typically used in thinner gauges for compact plates that need rigidity in a small footprint.

Aluminium composite panel (ACP) is a sandwich panel with thin aluminium skins bonded to a composite core. It delivers excellent flatness and stiffness at low weight, making it a popular choice for hoardings and longer-running temporary panels.

Service-life snapshot (indicative, Melbourne metro exposure): corflute 3–6 months; ACP 12–36+ months; aluminium plates 24–60+ months. UV exposure, cleaning chemicals and handling will affect outcomes—talk to us if your site is high-wind or coastal.

Durability and weather resistance

Corflute handles rain and general outdoor exposure well for short terms but can flex in high wind if not supported. It is ideal for fence runs where movement is acceptable and cost control matters.

ACP offers superior stiffness and panel flatness compared with corflute, maintaining a tidy presentation over longer periods. It resists warping and is suited to hoardings and fixed frames.

Aluminium sheet is durable and rigid in smaller sizes. For large panels, ACP often provides better stiffness-to-weight, reducing fixings and frame load.

Thermal movement (planning tip): allow ~0.6 mm/m per 25°C change for ACP/aluminium. Across a 2440 mm panel, a 40°C swing can be ~2.3 mm—keep small gaps at joins and use clearance holes.

Print quality and finish

Direct UV printing gives crisp, durable graphics on all three materials. At Sign Portal, panels can be direct-printed on our Mimaki JFX EX UV flatbeds for fast, high-coverage output, including white and rich colour passes where artwork requires.

• Corflute: excellent for bold graphics and high-contrast safety icons at typical viewing distances.
• ACP: very smooth face for sharp detail, gradients and brand colours on hoardings.
• Aluminium: clean metal plate look, often used for smaller regulatory or information plates.

Colour control at Sign Portal: we linearise devices daily, run target swatches for critical brand colours and verify consistency panel-to-panel before full runs. White ink layers and spot varnish effects are available where specified.

Size and handling

Corflute is extremely light and easy for one person to carry in larger formats. This makes fast fence runs practical with simple cable ties.

ACP remains light but is stiffer at size, so it stays flatter on hoardings and framed structures. Handling is still straightforward for typical site panel sizes.

Aluminium sheet is compact and rigid in small formats. For large areas, aluminium can be heavier and may need more fixings or thicker gauges compared with ACP.

On-site safety: trim cable-tie tails flush and deburr any drilled edges to reduce snag hazards in public walkways.

Fixing and installation

Corflute is usually cable-tied through pre-punched holes or eyelets to temporary fencing. For posts or timber, screws with large washers help spread the load.

ACP fixes well to timber or metal frames with screws and can use adhesives in appropriate conditions. It stays flat and resists flutter.

Aluminium sheet installs like ACP but is typically used in smaller sizes where a thin metal plate is desired on gates, doors and posts.

Safety and edge considerations

On active sites, exposed panel corners can become hazards. Corflute edges are forgiving but can flap if insufficiently tied. ACP and aluminium are rigid; rounding corners, deburring, and ensuring secure fixings reduce snag risks in walkways and near gates.

Reusability and storage

Corflute can be reused if handled carefully, but it is more prone to creasing. Store flat and avoid heavy weights on top. ACP holds its shape very well between projects when stacked on edge protectors. Aluminium plates are durable and easy to re-deploy when kept scratch-free.

Decommissioning service: we can retrieve, de-identify and re-cut ACP into fresh sizes for your next stage. Ask for our reuse and re-cut option on your order.

Cost and value

Corflute generally offers the lowest upfront cost for temporary runs. ACP provides strong value when you need extended use, a flatter finish, or fewer replacements over the project. Aluminium plates suit compact applications where a slim metal sign is preferred.

Environmental considerations

Different materials have different reuse and end-of-life pathways. Corflute is light and efficient to transport; ACP and aluminium are long-wearing and resist damage, which can reduce replacement frequency. Check your local recycling options or reuse policies before disposal and plan fixings so panels can be removed and repurposed where possible.

Packaging reduction: our dispatch team sizes and reuses corner and edge protectors where possible and can consolidate deliveries by stage to reduce site waste.

Production at Sign Portal

Our in-house workflow is optimised for construction signage. We direct-print corflute and ACP on Mimaki JFX EX UV flatbeds in clean print rooms for consistent colour. For specialised decals or small plates, we also use our Roland VG-640 printer/cutter to produce and contour-cut self-adhesive graphics for application to panels.

Precision cutting and finishing are handled on our MultiCam SM2412 CNC router for ACP and aluminium, enabling rounded corners, slots and accurate shapes. For plastics and engraving laminates used on broader site systems, our Trotec Speedy 500 and large-format CO2 laser support rapid custom work.

Process control and site-ready QA: every job travels with a scannable route card through print, cure, cut and pack; first-article checks are photographed and archived against the job number. All electrical apparatus is routinely test-and-tagged to AS/NZS 3760. We operate documented procedures aligned with ISO 9001 principles for traceability and corrective action.

Manufacturing: behind the scenes (original photos)

We manufacture end-to-end in our Melbourne facility with a repeatable QA process tailored for construction sites:

• Boards: corflute (3 mm and 5 mm), ACP (3 mm), aluminium sheet (typically 1.2–2.0 mm) kept in rack-controlled batches to maintain surface consistency across projects.
• Print control: daily nozzle checks and linearisation on the Mimaki JFX EX; we run proof swatches and spot-colour checks before panel runs, and we use white ink layers where artwork needs opacity over dark substrates.
• Surface prep: we source corona-treated corflute for strong UV ink adhesion and conduct tape-adhesion checks on first articles in each batch.
• Cutting: the MultiCam SM2412 runs zoned vacuum hold-down for clean edges and accurate hole positions; corners can be radiused to R3, R6, R10 or per spec.
• Identification: optional back-of-panel labelling or laser-marked IDs (with our Trotec system) help sequence long hoarding runs and simplify maintenance.
• Packaging: panels are interleaved with edge protectors and strapped for metro or regional freight; pallet labels mirror your drawing numbers for easy on-site allocation.

Operator notes: ACP is routed with single-flute O upcut tooling for clean edges, typical feed 4–6 m/min, shallow finishing pass for burr-free corners. We verify hole-to-print registration against your drilling layer before releasing the sheet to pack.

Side-by-side comparison: corflute vs ACP

Side-by-side comparison: aluminium vs ACP

Typical site scenarios

Case study — ACP hoarding project gallery

Project: CBD mixed-use redevelopment hoarding, Melbourne. Scope: branded public-facing hoarding for a 9-month program.

• Quantity and size: 42 ACP panels at 2440 x 1220 x 3 mm, corners R6, routed slots for existing services.
• Print: direct UV on Mimaki JFX EX with white underlays for deep colours; satin protective overlaminate for easier cleaning.
• Fixing pattern: perimeter screws at 300 mm centres to timber framing; intermediate studs at 600 mm with 400–600 mm vertical centres.
• Sequencing: back-of-panel ID codes laser-marked to match the builder’s panel plan, reducing install errors.
• Outcome: completed in two night shifts (street frontage), zero panel replacements over the program; monthly wipe-down kept presentation consistent.

Gallery notes: this run covered ~102 lineal metres of frontage. The crew averaged 6–8 minutes per panel including alignment, thanks to pre-marked IDs and join guides. No call-backs recorded; the satin laminate allowed safe graffiti removal with mild citrus cleaner during month 7 without colour lift.

Site constraints we managed: night works window 10 pm–4 am, pedestrian management with barrier offsets, low-noise tooling for after-hours compliance, and pre-drilled service offsets to avoid onsite drilling.

Choosing by priorities

• Lowest upfront cost: choose corflute.
• Best flatness and tidy look over months: choose ACP.
• Small, tough metal plate: choose aluminium sheet.
• Fast install on temporary fencing: choose corflute with cable ties.
• Custom shapes with rounded corners: choose ACP, CNC routed.

Artwork and file supply

Provide vector artwork where possible (PDF, AI, EPS) with fonts outlined and a safe margin from edges for cable ties and screws. Include any hole positions on a separate layer. If supplying raster images, use adequate resolution for the final viewing distance to preserve clarity once printed at size.

For large hoarding runs, supply a panel map with continuous artwork and 10–15 mm bleed over joins. We can generate this for you if you provide the master artwork and total run length.

Manufacturing and finishing options

Direct UV print: Our Mimaki JFX EX flatbeds handle full-panel printing on corflute and ACP with durable inks suited to outdoor use. For decals or layered graphics, our Roland VG-640 prints and contour-cuts adhesive vinyl that can be applied to panels.

Cutting and shaping: ACP and aluminium plates are cut and finished on our MultiCam SM2412 CNC router for clean edges, accurate holes, slots and rounded corners. Where engraving plastics or acrylic components are part of a sign system, our Trotec Speedy 500 and large-format CO2 laser provide fast, precise work.

Laminating: Optional protective laminates are available to add abrasion resistance and make cleaning easier on longer-running panels.

Site kits: on request we include labelled fixings, IPA wipes, a felt-edge squeegee (for patches/decals) and a small touch-up pack matched to your print for mid-project maintenance.

Installation notes

For fence signs, use multiple ties along edges and corners, keeping tension even. For framed hoardings, fix ACP through the framing at appropriate intervals and avoid over-tightening to prevent dimples. On gates and doors, use suitable screws and washers for aluminium plates and check clearance for hinges and locks.

When installing over public footpaths, set a consistent datum line first and dry-fit two panels to confirm join alignment before committing to the full run.

Fixing spacing guidelines (non‑engineered)

The following non-engineered guidelines reflect common Australian site practice for signage only (not structural hoarding design). Always defer to the builder’s specification, local wind conditions and engineer’s details.

• Edge distances: keep fixings 15–25 mm in from panel edges to reduce tear-out and avoid face dimpling.
• Clearance holes: oversize panel holes 1–2 mm above screw shank to allow thermal movement (ACP and aluminium).

Corflute to temporary fencing

• Up to 600 x 450 mm: 4 cable ties (corners).
• 900 x 600 mm: 6 cable ties (corners + midpoints on long edges).
• 1200 x 900 mm: 8 cable ties (top/bottom at ~300–400 mm spacing; corners tied).
• 2400 x 1200 mm: 12–16 cable ties (top/bottom at ~250–300 mm spacing; consider mid-span ties and edge taping to limit flap).
• Tie spec: 4.8–7.6 mm UV-stable black cable ties; double up on windy frontages; avoid over-tensioning to prevent crease lines.

Tie hole guidance: 6–8 mm round holes, 20–25 mm in from edges; for chain-link mesh, place holes to land on wires to prevent shear; trim tails flush.

ACP to timber or steel hoardings

• Panel size 2440 x 1220 x 3 mm: perimeter screws at 300 mm centres; intermediate framing at 600 mm with 400–600 mm vertical centres.
• Fasteners: 10g wafer-head Class 3/4 screws with neoprene or EPDM washers; for steel, use self-drilling tek screws of suitable length.
• Adhesive assist (optional): high-bond acrylic foam tape (VHB-style) with primer on clean, dry substrates; combine with mechanical fixings.
• Joins: 2–3 mm gaps between sheets on long runs; align artwork with a 10–15 mm bleed across joins.

Washer/Head sizing: aim for ≥16 mm bearing diameter on ACP to spread load and minimise dimpling. Pre-slot vertical holes (5 x 10 mm) at mid-span to accommodate movement on long, sun-exposed runs.

Aluminium plates to gates, doors and posts

• Up to 300 x 225 mm: 2 fixings on the long axis.
• Up to 450 x 300 mm: 4 fixings (corners) with nylon or neoprene washers.
• Hardware: #8–#10 pan/wafer-head screws; use anti-corrosion (Class 3/4) near coastal sites.

Exposure adjustments (rule-of-thumb): for high-wind corridors or rooftop exposures, reduce fixing centres by ~25% and increase bearing diameter; for sheltered interiors, standard centres usually suffice. Always confirm with site management.

Maintenance and reuse

Wipe panels with a soft cloth and mild detergent as needed. Inspect fixings after high winds and re-tension cable ties if slack. When demobilising, stack ACP with edge protectors, store plates flat or upright to prevent damage, and keep corflute free from heavy weights to avoid creasing.

Cleaning dos/don’ts: do use mild detergents, water, IPA up to 70% on a test spot; don’t use strong ketones or abrasive pads that can bloom UV ink or haze laminates.

Repair and mid‑project touch‑ups

Most minor damage can be resolved on site without full panel replacement.

• Corflute: repair torn tie points with oversized washers or move holes 20–30 mm inward; for scuffs, apply a small colour-matched self-adhesive patch. Replace if creased through the flute.
• ACP: light scratches can be hidden with a colour-matched vinyl patch; dents generally require panel replacement. For graffiti, test a mild citrus cleaner or isopropyl alcohol on a corner first; avoid strong solvents that can bloom UV inks.
• Aluminium: polish light scuffs with a non-abrasive cleaner; if the face print is damaged, apply a replacement decal or swap the plate. Use corrosion-resistant fixings in coastal zones and re-isolate dissimilar metals to avoid galvanic staining.
• Fasteners: replace missing screws with like-for-like size and class; where holes have enlarged, step up one gauge with an appropriate pilot.

How we help: we can supply pre-printed patch kits, IPA wipes and squeegees matched to your job number. For damaged ACP, we can route a like-for-like replacement panel from the archived print file and dispatch next-day (Melbourne metro, stock permitting).

Ordering checklist

• Material: corflute, aluminium or ACP.
• Panel size and orientation.
• Fixing method: holes/eyelets, screws, or adhesive areas.
• Corner style: square or rounded (specify radius).
• Artwork files and colour notes.
• Quantity and delivery address (metro, regional or remote).

Sign Portal manufactures in-house and ships Australia-wide, including regional and remote delivery. Trade customers can streamline repeat projects through our Trade Portal and customer-specific catalogues.

Related Sign Portal resources: Sign Portal