Do You Know When To Utilize Mesh Versus Solid Vinyl Banners?

Are you wondering whether to utilize a mesh banner versus vinyl?

Do you know the difference?

Are you aware of all the little hidden elements that go into printing and finishing a nice banner… that aren’t so apparent?

If not, then you will soon discover when it’s best to choose a mesh banner over a vinyl banner. And what to look for. Here’s why.

First of all, you may are not even be aware that mesh and vinyl banners come in different weights?

Which means, vinyl banners are measured in weights also known as ounces… e.g. oz. Therefore the heavier the weight the better the banner. That maybe something to keep in mind before making your choice. But let’s dig in deeper, shall we?

For example, let’s say you are about to order a banner and you’re getting different quotes. Then let’s say the quotes you receive seem to differ in price? And they do…

Would you automatically choose a lower priced printed mesh or vinyl banner if you are unaware of the banners weight? Would you think, hey, this is a great deal?

Why is this important? Well, what if you accidentally order real thin banner stock without even knowing it? This happens more than people care to know.

Let’s say you thought you were getting a rock bottom bargain deal and quickly ordered a large 8oz solid vinyl banner?

And then you placed that 8oz banner on the side of your building… then suddenly it shreds in the gentlest of breeze? That would seriously suck.

However, let’s assume your a seasoned pro. And you order up a heavy duty 13 to 18oz banner and you place that on the side of your building? You being a pro already know you can expect it to last a long time. Right?

However, most people who are looking for an ideal banner may not be as keen as you. Some don’t know that a mesh banner weighing 8 ounces is like a good solid 13 to 16oz vinyl banner.

Why? Because the weight of the mesh is less due to its design.

Which means, mesh has tons of tiny holes for which air can pass through easily. Therefore removing almost half the surface coverage of a solid vinyl banner.

So good rule of thumb, before choosing either type of indoor or outdoor banner, is to know its weight in ounces.

The higher the ounce the stronger the banner.

Okay, now that you are aware of these differences… when is it a good time to go with mesh vs. vinyl?

Let’s start with when to use a mesh banner.

A good rule of thumb is to use mesh banners outdoors when…

• You want to place a huge banner advertising sign on the side or face of your building, structure or parking garage.
• You are hosting an event outdoors and people are walking by your outdoor truss system setup.
• You’re located in a windy area.
• You have rigging in place with eighth inch coated cable to lace the meshes perimeter nice and tight.
• You want a wrinkle free nice clean look on an indoor truss display system.
• You want a lightweight sturdy stage backdrop or backdrops.
• And you have a construction area perimeter fence for advertising what’s coming and you want to limit the load.

All in all… indoor and outdoor mesh banners actually will look better because the mesh may be stretched taunt. It gives, it takes, it flows. Which means, no wrinkles.

As in the photo above you can see a huge outdoor mesh banner on the side of a parking structure. And if you look closely… you will see, it is laced into a permanent perimeter metal wire banner framing system using 1/8^th inch coated cable.

A bit overkill, but who wants the worry or liability of that baby coming loose in high winds, right?

Plus, if the worst case scenario were to happen and the mesh did come loose… it’s so lightweight, no one will probably get hurt.

Therefore, lean towards using mesh banners whenever possible. They just look better.

Okay, so what about vinyl then?

When do you want to utilize vinyl banners?

The rule of thumb for using vinyl banners are…

• When your banner is in direct contact with an outdoor wall.
• When you want a smaller Coming Soon banner above your storefront.
• When you want to hang banners along a corridor or walkway using pole pockets. (Like at conventions)
• Smaller outdoor advertising sign banners.
• You are located in extreme weather climates.
• Great for when you want a doubled-sided printed banner.

Yes, solid vinyl banners are much more durable when utilized correctly vs. mesh.

For example, if you look at the coming soon banner photo on this release you will see that this solid vinyl banner serves its purpose. And serves it well.

Nice, clean and easy to read. And a logo to boot. Get the word out, right?

In sum, it’s always best to ask a sign banner printer, with experience, what he or she would recommend.

Because, with banners now-a-days, there’s a lot more than meets the eye.

Which means, you can get the right weight type of banner… BUT if it’s not finish properly, you’re still screwed.

Why? If you’re going to place a large banner on your building and later you find out -in dismay that the edges and corners were not being finished or reinforced properly then there is a good chance the banner will tear away without any wind.

And if you’re lacing one-up on a wire frame or inside a perimeter banner frame system and the grommet are not set in reinforced webbing then as soon as they are being ratcheted into place to make them taunt… The grommets will begin popping like popcorn.

So, if you are looking for an ideal banner for your business or event then Signs West Outdoor of Las Vegas is here to help. Plus, we now ship nationally.

Until next month… may you now have a much better idea of whether to utilize a mesh banner versus vinyl banner. And what to look for… in all the details, quickly.

Want more advice? Then Call us today at (702) 879-8250.

Have a great day.