The story Aluminum Toughness, Plastic Flexibility

Dibond printing sandwiches a dense polyethylene core between two sheets of aircraft-grade aluminum, giving you the upscale look of metal at a fraction of the weight. Weather-proof UV inks at 1000 DPI lock in razor-sharp artwork, while the composite panel shrugs off rain, snow, and blazing sun for 5-plus years outdoors.

Ideal for parking lots, storefronts, architectural way-finding, lobby plaques, and any place you need brand-forward permanence without hiring a crane. Upload press-ready art or lean on our free designer tweaks—either way, your logos pop with photo realism on the satin-metal surface.

Pair panels with stainless standoffs for a 3-D gallery look, or request radius corners for safety at high-traffic height. Need double-sided signs? We print both faces in one pass so colors align perfectly. And unlike pure aluminum, Dibond resists warping in extreme heat, so city-approved street signs stay flat and readable for years.

Quick answer

Direct answer: Dibond signs combine aircraft-grade aluminum sheets with a polyethylene core, delivering the premium look of metal at a fraction of the weight. SF Bay Signs prints and ships custom Dibond panels within 48 hours.

Key takeaways

  • Dibond is lighter than solid aluminum and resists warping in extreme heat—ideal for large-format outdoor signs.
  • Choose ¼″ thickness for high-traffic outdoor use or ⅛″ for protected interior applications.
  • Upload press-ready art or request free designer tweaks—we print both faces in one pass for double-sided signs.

Specs & options

Specs

Material
Dibond (aluminum composite panel by 3A Composites)
Core
Solid polyethylene
Thickness
⅛″ (3mm) or ¼″ (6mm)
Standard Sizes
12″×18″ to 48″×96″
Print Resolution
1000 DPI UV ink
Outdoor Rating
5+ years (UV-resistant)
Mounting
Drill, standoff, or adhesive tape

Options

  • Size Options — Standard sizes from 12″×18″ up to 48″×96″, or request custom dimensions.
  • Thickness — Choose ⅛″ for interior applications or ¼″ for maximum rigidity outdoors.
  • Mounting — Pre-drilled holes, standoff-ready, or adhesive-backed options available.
  • Double-Sided — Full-color printing on both faces with perfect alignment.
  • Custom Shapes — Radius corners, custom contours, or precision die-cutting.

Need help preparing files? See Artwork Setup.

Good fit for

  • Parking & Traffic Control — Durable signage for lots, garages, and street-level enforcement.
  • Storefront Branding — Weather-resistant logos and promotional displays.
  • Architectural Wayfinding — Campus maps, building directories, and navigation systems.
  • Lobby & Interior Plaques — Professional office signage with premium metal finish.
  • Real Estate & Construction — Lightweight panels for site signs and property marketing.
  • Retail & Restaurant Signage — Menu boards, promotional displays, and brand identification.

How it works

  1. 1) Share specs + artwork

    Tell us your size, thickness, and quantity. Upload press-ready art or send your logo for free designer tweaks.

  2. 2) Proof + approval

    We send a digital proof showing layout, colors, and any mounting holes. Approve before production starts.

  3. 3) Fabricate / print

    Your Dibond panels are printed at 1000 DPI with weather-proof UV inks, then cut to size with clean edges.

  4. 4) Ship or install

    Standard 48-hour turnaround ships nationwide. Bay Area customers can add professional installation.

FAQ

How long do Dibond signs last outdoors in Bay Area weather?

Dibond signs from SF Bay Signs are rated for 5+ years outdoors in Bay Area conditions, including fog, rain, and sun exposure. The aluminum composite construction resists rust, warping, and fading better than pure aluminum or plastic alternatives. Our UV-resistant inks maintain vibrant colors even in direct sunlight along the California coast.

Do you handle permits for Dibond signs in San Francisco, Oakland, or Berkeley?

SF Bay Signs provides permit documentation and guidance for Dibond sign installations throughout the Bay Area. We are familiar with requirements in San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, and other local jurisdictions. Contact us at (877) 287-0059 for specific permit assistance and installation planning.

What is the difference between Dibond signs and aluminum signs?

Dibond signs feature a polyethylene core sandwiched between aluminum sheets, making them lighter and more vibration-resistant than solid aluminum. SF Bay Signs recommends Dibond for large format signs where weight matters, while solid aluminum works better for smaller, premium applications. Both offer excellent durability and weather resistance.

What thickness Dibond should I choose for outdoor signs?

SF Bay Signs recommends ¼″ Dibond for outdoor applications and high-traffic areas where maximum rigidity is needed. Choose ⅛″ thickness for interior lobby signs, directories, or protected outdoor locations. Both thicknesses accept the same mounting hardware and printing quality.

Can you install Dibond signs for businesses in the Bay Area?

Yes, SF Bay Signs provides professional installation services throughout San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, San Jose, and surrounding Bay Area cities. Our installation team handles permits, mounting hardware, and ensures proper placement for maximum visibility and code compliance.

Is Dibond the same as aluminum composite material (ACM)?

Dibond is a premium brand of aluminum composite material (ACM) manufactured by 3A Composites. SF Bay Signs uses genuine Dibond panels for superior flatness, edge quality, and long-term durability compared to generic ACM products. The polyethylene core and aircraft-grade aluminum skins provide exceptional performance for signage applications.