Straw, sticks or bricks? Construction lessons from the three little pigs

The range of materials and techniques for constructing signs is constantly expanding. While selection of materials is often based on the 'look' interpreters want to achieve, there are several other issues that should also be considered:

How detailed is the content? Are graphics included, and if so, what colours are required? Where will the sign be placed? For example, outdoor signs should blend in with their surroundings but also need to be durable. What is the expected usage? Signs and displays that have interactive or tactile components are particularly susceptible to damage and therefore need to be constructed from very durable materials. How much money has been budgeted for construction? Will staff be able to regularly check and maintain the signs and displays? On-going maintenance is essential, therefore the cost and management of cleaning and repair should be carefully considered when selecting display materials. How long do you want your signs to last? It makes little sense to pay large sums of money for long-lasting, heavy-duty panels if the interpretive content needs to be regularly changed and updated!

Strengths and weaknesses of common sign materials

Material	Strengths	Weaknesses
Wood	Blends with natural environment Easy to construct Can be individually shaped and carved Can be painted Ages well	Easy to vandalise Difficult to carve detailed graphics
Fibreglass	Wide range of colours available Good for detailed graphics Can simulate natural features such as rock walls and stone Cheap to make duplicates Resistant to weathering and vandalism	Colours fade over time
Metal	Resistant to fading and discolouration Good for detailed graphics Can reproduce black & white photos Range of 'earthy' colours available Resistant to weathering and vandalism	Expensive to duplicate Reflects bright sunlight
Porcelain enamel	Good for detailed graphics Photographs can be reproduced Wide range of colours available Resistant to weathering and vandalism	Expensive Susceptible to chipping and subsequent rusting
Stone	Good for black and white images Good for detailed line art Resistant to weathering and vandalism Easy to maintain	Natural contours may make words difficult to read (see photo below)

Regardless of the material chosen, on-going maintenance is vital if signs are to remain vibrant and effective. Poorly maintained signs are not only difficult to read, but also send visitors a message that you don't really care.