Different types of hoardings and graphics for construction sites

Hoardings have a number of uses for building projects. The first is that they enable those companies to comply with legislation such as the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.

These make it clear that building sites must be closed off by appropriately sized boundaries. The use of hoardings protects the public by preventing access to the site, where they would be exposed to safety risks. It also protects the company from potential vandalism and theft.

Another use that hoardings can have is for advertising. They provide a sizeable space that can be filled with creative promotional graphics. This blog will look at different hoarding and graphic styles.

Types of hoarding materials

Hoardings must be high enough to deter unauthorised entry. They must also be sufficiently sturdy to withstand the elements.

Timber/plywood

Most wooden hoardings are made from either timber or plywood. Both materials offer strength and security as well as being environmentally friendly. This is because they can be sourced in a sustainable way and used more than once. They are held in place with concrete setting or post-mounting.

Steel

Steel is deployed for metal hoardings and is generally used if they will be in place for a lengthy period. This means large scale construction projects that have a timescale of years. Steel hoardings are another kind that can be used again and also allow for customised design.

PVC/UPVC

This is becoming a common choice of material due to being eco-friendly, easy to maintain and hard-wearing. It is lightweight for simple installation and is ideal for printing high grade graphics onto.

Aluminium composite panels

Some of the brands of these include Alu-Panel and Dibond. They are another lightweight choice that does not compromise on strength or durability. They are good for printing graphics on too.

Concrete

Concrete hoardings are perhaps the most durable of all. They can be made with interlocking systems that enable easy and quick installation.

Mesh/PVC banners

Mesh hoardings are usually made out of steel and offer security with greater site visibility. PVC banners provide a short-term solution for securing a building site.

Types of hoarding graphics

The standard method for the creation of hoarding graphics is vinyl wrapping. This involves printing the chosen design on a piece of vinyl substrate before fitting that to the panels. It is then put on the actual hoardings. The vinyl used can be either gloss or matte, depending on customer preference. It can also be manufactured to prevent graffiti damage.

This is not the only available method though; there is direct-to-board printing too. That sees the graphics added to the panels without the need for vinyl. Finally, you can get scaffolding banners that consist of graphics printed on mesh or vinyl for hanging on construction site scaffolding.

Hoarding graphics applications

Health and safety

One application of hoardings graphics is to ensure the health and safety of the public. They can contain information warning people to keep off the site and highlighting the different types of risk.

Promotions/advertising

Another frequent application is as a promotional tool for the contractor or developer. Sometimes hoardings are rented out to other businesses for advertising too. There are local council rules concerning both design and content that must be obeyed though.

Community engagement

Hoardings can be used to connect with people in the area of the construction, by featuring useful information. This could be images showing what the finished development will look like, or details of how long the building work will take. Developers like this because it shows a commitment to social responsibility and local engagement.

Bespoke designs

A good sign maker will be able to produce bespoke hoardings. There are lots of possibilities in terms of the size, materials and design, so you are not restricted.

Hoarding types by function

Class A hoarding

This is a self-supporting system of walls that is used to surround the perimeter of the site. It protects the site and the public. An alternative for places with hard surfaces that make digging impossible are free-standing hoardings.

Class B/Gantry hoarding

This is added to gantry areas to provide protection from falling objects. It must be able to cope with heavy loads.

For top quality custom hoardings signage in Manchester, why not try Ainsley Signs.