Pavement Signs FAQs
The Ultimate Guide to Pavement Signs:
Visibility, Durability & ROI
A pavement sign is your 24/7 salesperson. But selecting the right one involves balancing wind resistance, footfall safety, and poster protection. Backed by 45+ years of retail expertise, Displaysense helps you choose a sign that stays standing when others fall.
Retail studies show pavement signage can increase walk-in footfall by up to 30%.
You have 3 seconds to grab a passerby's attention. High-impact A1 or A0 signs maximise this window.
Our water-base signs are engineered to withstand British weather without tipping.
At a Glance: Which Sign is Right for You?
| Sign Type | Wind Resistance | Portability | Best Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-Board (Standard) | Low - Medium | High (Foldable) | High Streets & Sheltered Cafés |
| Water Base (Whirlwind) | High (Heavy Duty) | Medium (Wheeled) | Forecourts & Exposed Areas |
| Swing Sign | Medium - High | High (Lightweight) | Windy Pavements & Retail Parks |
| Chalkboard | Low | High | Pubs, Cafés & Daily Specials |
1. Choosing the Right Sign Type
What is the most stable pavement sign?
Water-fillable signs (Whirlwind/Ecoflex style) are the most stable.
These feature a hollow plastic base that you fill with water or sand, often creating a total ballast weight of 15kg - 30kg. Combined with heavy-duty springs that allow the panel to deflect wind rather than fighting it, these are the gold standard for exposed locations like garage forecourts or seafronts.
A-Board vs. Swing Sign: Which is better?
It depends on your wind exposure.
A-Boards offer a classic, premium look with a large display area, perfect for sheltered high streets. Swing Signs have a smaller footprint and a suspended panel that swings in the wind (aerodynamic deflection). If you are in a wind tunnel or gusty area, a Swing Sign is less likely to blow over than a standard A-Board.
Are Chalkboards suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, if they are specified as 'Outdoor'.
Our outdoor chalkboards use treated wood frames (often with a marine-grade finish) and high-pressure laminate writing surfaces. However, chalk ink can run in heavy rain unless you use waterproof liquid chalk pens. For permanent outdoor messages, a printed poster sign is lower maintenance.
What size should I buy (A2, A1, or A0)?
A1 is the industry standard balance of visibility and pavement space.
- A2 (420 x 594mm): Best for narrow pavements or tight doorways.
- A1 (594 x 841mm): The most popular size; large enough to read from 10m away but rarely obstructs wheelchairs.
- A0 (841 x 1189mm): Huge impact for forecourts or large pedestrian zones (requires significant floor space).
Expert Insight:
"Respect the Pavement Width."
Local councils typically require a minimum clearance (often 1.5m - 2m) on the pavement for pedestrians. Don't buy an A0 sign if it blocks wheelchair access; an A1 Swing Sign is safer and keeps you compliant with local regulations.

2. Weather Resistance & Durability
Are the posters waterproof?
The sign itself is weatherproof, but standard paper posters are not.
Our snap-frame signs include a clear UV-grade PVC protective cover. This protects the poster from rain and fading. However, in driving rain, moisture can wick in at the edges (capillary action). We strongly recommend using waterproof synthetic paper (PVC posters) or laminating your paper posters for 100% weatherproofing.
Will the sign rust?
Not if you choose Aluminium or Plastic.
Most of our A-Boards use Anodised Aluminium frames which cannot rust. Our water-base signs use High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) bases. Steel components (like springs) are usually galvanised or powder-coated to resist corrosion, though we recommend bringing signs in during extreme winter weather to prolong their life.
What happens in high winds?
Designed features engage to prevent tipping.
Standard A-Boards rely on their weight and leg spread. Water-base signs typically have heavy-duty springs connecting the frame to the base. In high winds, these springs allow the panel to tilt and flex, spilling the wind rather than acting as a sail and tipping over.
Does the cover sheet block UV light?
Yes, our covers have anti-glare UV properties.
The clear plastic sheet used in our snap frames is treated to reduce glare from the sun (making the poster readable) and block UV rays, which stops your expensive printed posters from fading and turning blue/yellow over time.
3. Poster Protection & Graphics
What is a Snap Frame?
The industry standard for quick poster changes.
A Snap Frame features four spring-loaded edges that "snap" open by hand. You simply place your poster inside, cover it with the protective sheet, and snap the edges shut. No tools required, and you can change a promo in under 30 seconds.
Can I use vinyl instead of posters?
Yes, on specific models.
Our Swing Signs usually feature a blank white aluminium or powder-coated steel panel intended for vinyl application. This is a permanent graphic solution ideal for brand logos. A-Boards are primarily designed for interchangeable paper/PVC posters.
What are 'Magnetic' covers?
A premium alternative to snap frames.
Some of our premium A-Boards (like the 'Booster' range) use a magnetic polycarbonate front sheet. This creates a seamless, frameless look (like a smartphone screen) and provides an exceptionally tight weather seal compared to traditional snap frames.
Do you print the posters?
Yes, we offer a full printing service.
You can upload your artwork when purchasing. We use weather-resistant, UV-stable inks on high-quality synthetic paper, ensuring your sign looks professional from day one and doesn't wrinkle in damp conditions.
4. Safety & Legal Positioning
Do I need planning permission?
Usually, 'Deemed Consent' applies.
In the UK, portable advertisements like A-Boards typically fall under 'Deemed Consent' if they are on your own forecourt. If placed on a public pavement (highway), you must check with your local council. Most allow it provided you leave sufficient clearance and remove the sign at night.
Why do signs have rounded corners?
For pedestrian safety.
Our A-Boards feature chrome rounded corners (safety tips) rather than sharp mitred edges. This prevents injury to clothing or skin if a pedestrian or child accidentally brushes against the sign in a busy street.
How heavy should the base be?
Heavier is better for stability.
An empty water base might weigh 4kg (easy to ship), but once filled with water, it can weigh 30kg+. This low centre of gravity is crucial for preventing the sign from blowing over and injuring someone.
5. Assembly, Filling & Care
Should I fill the base with water or sand?
Water is easiest; Sand is heavier.
Water is standard and easy to drain if you move premises. However, in winter, water can freeze and crack the base (though adding salt helps). Kiln-dried sand is heavier and won't freeze, making it the ultimate stability option for permanent locations.
How do I move a heavy water-base sign?
Use the integrated wheels.
Most of our water-base signs (like the Whirlwind) feature built-in wheels on one side. You simply tilt the sign back like a suitcase and roll it in. Never try to lift a full base; drain it first or use the wheels.
How do I assemble the sign?
Most signs are virtually tool-free.
A-Boards come pre-assembled; just unfold them. Swing signs typically require attaching the panel to the base using simple D-shackles or clips provided. No complex construction is required.
How do I clean the sign?
Warm soapy water is best.
Avoid harsh solvents or abrasive scourers, especially on the clear plastic poster covers, as this will scratch them and make your posters look cloudy. Wipe down the frames to remove traffic film and keep them looking fresh.
6. Branding & Customisation
Can I buy replacement covers?
Yes, we stock spare anti-glare sheets.
Over time, pavement dust and UV rays can degrade the clear plastic covers. We sell replacements in A2, A1, and A0 sizes so you can refresh your sign without buying a whole new unit.
Do you offer custom printed headers?
Yes, on specific models.
Some A-Boards come with a dedicated 'Header Area' (a metal plate above the poster). We can apply vinyl branding here (e.g., your logo), leaving the main poster area free for changing promotions. This reinforces brand identity even when the poster is changed.
Drive Footfall Today
Browse our extensive range of wind-tested, high-impact pavement signs designed for UK high streets.
View All Pavement SignsThe Displaysense Difference: Why We Are #1
Many pavement signs look the same online, but they don't perform the same in a British winter. Displaysense engineers signage for the real world. Here is why we are the UK's leading supplier.
Commercial Materials
We use Anodised Aluminium and High-Density Polyethylene bases. We don't use brittle plastics that crack in frost or cheap steel that rusts in weeks.
Wind Tested Design
Our heavy-duty waterbase signs are engineered with specific spring tensions to withstand high wind speeds, keeping your brand visible when competitors' signs have blown over.
Safety First
From rounded chrome corners to anti-topple water ballasts, our designs prioritise the safety of the general public on busy pavements.
UK Spare Parts
Need a new clear cover sheet next year? A replacement wheel? We hold spares in our UK warehouse, extending the life of your investment.
45+ Years Expertise
Established industry leaders in display solutions since 1978.
Own-Brand Design
We manufacture our own products to ensure strict quality control.
Certified Quality
Tested for stability, weather resistance, and public safety.
UK Support Team
Expert advice and spare parts available directly from our UK warehouse.