All phenolic resin signs seem to have color matching problems but they are 
otherwise a good, stable choice for outdoor signs. They are pretty scratch 
resistant and are fade resistant for a long time. One trick is to pester 
the vendor to run all of your signs in the same print run. Three companies 
in North America make their own phenolic resin signs, Folia as you know, 
Fossil in New York, and IZone in Texas. IZone says they've recently split 
from WilsonArt and have reduced their turn around time from weeks to days. 
As with all prices, factor in the longevity of phenolic resin signs versus 
replacing other sign types more frequently and the relative price goes 
down. 

Anyway, you asked about aluminum core signs. A lot depends on what the 
surface treatment is and what you're needs are. If these are some sort of 
paper based print sandwiched between aluminum and acrylic, you might not 
get the fade resistance or scratch resistance you need. Don't be afraid to 
ask for samples and references and go see the signs installed somewhere. 

I'd be happy to give you an opinion (of course) if you'll give me more 
details on the material they're proposing. 

Diane Gutenkauf
[log in to unmask]

On Thu, 13 Jul 2006 10:16:32 -0400, Mary Ames Sheret 
<[log in to unmask]> wrote:

>We have colorful, outdoor interpretive signs on the Battleship North 
>Carolina located in Wilmington, NC, where it is very hot and humid in the 
>summer. We recently installed signs by Folia and are pleased with the 
>results, except for color matching. The price is not cheap either. A 
local 
>company, however, is suggesting using an alumi-core product for 
additional 
>outdoor signs. Has anyone used this particular product outside? What 
>products have worked successfully for you in extreme temperatures and 
>moisture?
>Mary Ames Sheret, Curator of Collections, Battleship NORTH CAROLINA
>

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