Woody61 11 Posted February 19, 2016 I have to redo a roadside sign for my churc with Thier logo on the top then the slats for letters on the bottom. What substrate do yall use and where do you get it from? This is the first one I've ever attempted so I'm kinda lost. Thanks on advance. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
signyouup 178 Posted February 19, 2016 If it's internally lighted, you need to use acrylic and translucent vinyl if you're doing any colors other than black. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
slice&dice 2,450 Posted February 19, 2016 Woody, what you're seeking is probably Lexan. Some here will suggest acrylic, but Lexan is preferable (although more expensive) You can order it from GRIMCO, and they'll also provide you with the changeable message board materials & letters. Their catalogue item # 131MK will give you a set of 350 letters and numbers and a 3' high x4' wide backing (2 - 3'x2' boards with tracks permanently attached) for about $130. You don't say if it's double-sided (in which case, of course, you would need to multiply your quantity of both Lexan and trackboard sets) 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Wildgoose 4,200 Posted February 19, 2016 Lexan (polycarbonate) is definitely stronger or at least more impact resistant however it will be more susceptible to yellowing over time. Other than cost that is one of the primary reasons to choose Acrylic (plexiglass) over polycarbonate sheeting. Both are going to work for you. I haven't done a lot of these but usually inform the customer of the differences and let them be involved with the choice. I had one who has a low sign that is well within striking distance of nearby pedestrians and Lexan would probably have been the choice I would have went with but he stuck with acrylic even though I was there to repair it after someone threw a rock and cracked it. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Woody61 11 Posted February 20, 2016 Thanks for the help yall. it is internally lit and 2 sided. ill look in to both options. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
slice&dice 2,450 Posted February 20, 2016 Just remember one thing, woody. Make sure you take into account the width of the retainers on the box. In other words, when designing the sign, subtract whatever dimensions (several inches in from the edges) that are going to be hidden behind those metal strips. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mb20music 760 Posted February 20, 2016 You can purchase sheets of Lexan from Home Depot and Lowe's. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
