An honest comparison of PVC foam board with acrylic (plexiglass), MDF and plywood for signage, furniture and wet areas.
PVC foam board often competes with acrylic, MDF and plywood. Each material has its place; here is how they compare.
PVC foam board vs acrylic (plexiglass)
- Acrylic is transparent or glossy and premium-looking, but heavier, more brittle and more expensive.
- PVC foam board is opaque, lighter, more impact-tolerant and more economical — the better choice for printed signs, displays and routed letters.
PVC foam board vs MDF
- MDF is heavy and swells when it gets wet.
- PVC foam board is waterproof, does not swell or grow mould and is much lighter — ideal for bathroom and kitchen cabinets, wet areas, boats and caravans.
PVC foam board vs plywood
- Plywood is strong and stiff but needs sealing and can rot, delaminate or attract insects.
- PVC foam board needs no sealing, is easy to clean and gives a uniform surface without grain or knots.
Summary
| PVC foam | Acrylic | MDF | Plywood | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Light | Heavy | Heavy | Medium |
| Water resistance | Excellent | Excellent | Poor | Moderate |
| Ease of fabrication | Excellent | Moderate | Good | Good |
| Printability | Excellent | Good | Needs priming | Needs priming |