Which Foamex Thickness Is Best? A Look at 3mm, 5mm and 10mm

Foamex Board Thickness Guide: 3mm, 5mm or 10mm?

Foamex is one of the most popular materials used for signage, displays, and exhibition printing. Its clean, smooth finish and strong yet lightweight qualities make it a favourite in both commercial and creative industries. But when it comes to choosing the right thickness for your project, many people are unsure which is best — 3mm, 5mm or 10mm?

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at each of these Foamex thicknesses, what they are best used for, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What Is Foamex?

Foamex is a brand name for a type of PVC foam board. It’s made from compressed PVC with a smooth outer surface, which makes it perfect for high-quality printing. Despite its name, it is not soft like foam – it’s rigid and durable, yet lightweight and easy to handle.

This material is widely used for signs, banners, exhibition panels, and display boards. It can be printed on directly, is water-resistant, and is easy to cut or drill for mounting. Foamex boards are a reliable choice when you want your message to look professional and stand out.

Understanding Foamex Thickness Options

Foamex boards come in a range of thicknesses, but the most commonly used are 3mm, 5mm, and 10mm. Each thickness offers its own advantages depending on the type of job and where it will be displayed.

• 3mm Foamex: Thin and flexible, ideal for temporary displays.
• 5mm Foamex: The all-rounder, suitable for a mix of indoor and light outdoor use.
• 10mm Foamex: Thick and strong, great for long-term and outdoor signage.

Let’s explore these in more detail to help you decide which one best suits your needs.

3mm Foamex – Lightweight and Versatile

The 3mm Foamex board is the thinnest option and is often used for short-term or indoor display projects. It is light and flexible, making it very easy to transport, hang, or fix to walls using Velcro, double-sided tape, or suction cups.

Best uses:

• Indoor signage
• Point of sale displays
• Exhibition panels
• Temporary notices

Benefits:

• Cost-effective
• Lightweight and portable
• Easy to cut or shape
• Smooth surface for clear printing

Things to consider:

While 3mm Foamex is great for temporary and indoor use, it may bend or warp in outdoor conditions or when exposed to heat and pressure. It’s not ideal for situations where the display needs to be rigid and long-lasting.

5mm Foamex – The Reliable All-Rounder

The 5mm Foamex board is one of the most popular choices for a wide range of display applications. It provides a great balance between weight, strength, and cost. Thicker than 3mm, it offers more stability and is suitable for both indoor and short-term outdoor use.

Best uses:

• Indoor and light outdoor signage
• Exhibition printing
• Retail and promotional displays
• Directional signage

Benefits:

• Strong and durable
• Excellent print quality
• Still relatively lightweight
• Versatile for many types of projects

Things to consider:

Although more rigid than 3mm, the 5mm option may not be suitable for very large signs or areas exposed to high wind unless securely mounted.

10mm Foamex – For Maximum Impact and Durability

10mm Foamex is the thickest and heaviest-duty version. It is very strong, highly durable, and offers a solid surface for large prints or outdoor use. This is the go-to option for projects that need to make a bold impression and last over time.

Best uses:

• Outdoor signage
• Permanent or semi-permanent displays
• Large exhibition backdrops
• Shop signs and wall panels

Benefits:

• High durability and rigidity
• Resistant to weather and physical impact
• Professionals look for large displays
• Supports double-sided printing well

Things to consider:

The thicker board is heavier, so it may require more secure mounting and handling. It also costs more, but this is balanced by its long lifespan and high quality.

Choosing the Right Thickness: What to Consider

When deciding which thickness of Foamex to use, think about the following factors:

1. Purpose – Is the sign temporary or permanent?
2. Location – Will it be used indoors or outdoors?
3. Size – Larger signs may need more rigidity.
4. Budget – Thicker boards cost more but may last longer.
5. Mounting method – Consider how and where the board will be fixed.

To help you compare at a glance, here’s a quick table:

Expert Tip: Match Thickness to Print Quality

All three thicknesses of Foamex have a smooth, bright white surface that makes them excellent for printing. Whether you’re using digital or screen printing, Foamex delivers high-quality results.

However, for larger graphics, double-sided printing, or displays viewed from a distance, 5mm and 10mm boards provide better visual stability and a more professional look.

For exhibition printing in particular, many businesses prefer 5mm Foamex due to its balance of strength, appearance, and ease of use. It stands well on shell schemes, mounts easily to walls or stands, and holds its shape well over time.

Conclusion

Foamex is a versatile and professional material for signage and displays, and choosing the right thickness depends on your specific needs.

• Use 3mm Foamex for cost-effective indoor signs and temporary displays.
• Go for 5mm Foamex if you need a sturdy, reliable board suitable for both indoor and short-term outdoor use.
• Choose 10mm Foamex for large, long-term, or outdoor signage where strength and impact are essential.

At the Foamex Printing Company, we offer expert advice, quality exhibition printing, and a wide range of Foamex board options to help you create displays that stand out. Get in touch today to find out more about our printing solutions or to request a quote tailored to your project.