Temporary Construction Signage: Corflute, Aluminium or ACP?

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.

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