Billboard Not Pulling Tight

Several factors can prevent a billboard from pulling tight during installation. Here are some common reasons:

Lack of Tension – If the vinyl isn’t properly stretched and secured, it may sag or wrinkle. Correct tensioning is crucial for a smooth, professional install.

Incorrect Wrap Amount – If a billboard has too much or too little wrap then it will make if very difficult to get a tight installation

Incorrect Size – If the billboard frame does not match the billboard print, it will not install correctly. Billboard faces should be measured prior to installation. This happens more often than you think.

Weather Conditions – Wind, temperature changes, and humidity can affect the installation of a vinyl billboard. Heat can make vinyl expand, and cold can make it contract, leading to loosening or wrinkling over time. In colder conditions the vinyl is difficult to get a good stretch. You might have to go back out to the structure in the summer and retighten.

Old Wooden Billboard – Some installers will just want a hem so they can screw the billboard to the wood face. We advise against it as it is hard to get the folds out. Plus it is time consuming and eventually your wood panels will wear out.

 

Get Advice

It can be confusing to know what amount of wrap you will need. It is best to email us a picture of your sign so we can recommend what the billboard finishing should require. Front and back views of the sign structure will help us make a good judgement. Email photos of your sign to [email protected] and we reply pretty quickly.

Typical billboard finishing for standard size billboards.

14ft x 48 Billboard – Requires a 6″ wrap with 3″ pocket.

12ft x 48ft Billboard – Requires a 6″ wrap with 3″ pocket.

12ft x 24ft Billboard – Requires a 6″ wrap with 3″ pocket.

10ft x 48ft Billboard – Requires a 6″ wrap with 3″ pocket.

10ft 6in x 36ft Billboard – Requires a 6″ wrap with 3″ pocket.

10ft x 20ft Billboard – Requires a 6″ wrap with 3″ pocket.

8ft x 24ft Billboard – Requires a 6″ wrap with 3″ pocket.

8ft x 20ft Billboard – Requires a 6″ wrap with 3″ pocket.

6ft x 12ft Billboard – Either 6″ wrap with 3″ pocket or 3″ wrap with 3″ pocket.

5ft x 11ft Billboard – Requires 3″ wrap with 3″ pocket

 

Billboard Print Terminology

What is pocket? It is the part of the billboard where pipe goes through to install the billboard. Pocket is on the back side of the billboard and is not see from the front.

What is Wrap? Wrap is the extra material that your require to complete the installation. Wrap is typically white and wraps around the backside of the sign.

What is Bleed? Bleed is the artwork that bleeds onto the wrap so you do not just see white wrap from the sides and backside of the sign.

What are Hang Lines? There are small lines on each corner of your print to assist you with installation. The hang lines illustrate the live area and the start of your wrap.

Billboard Hardware – There are suppliers that can get you bulk ratchets at discount and rods. We personally use Reliable Electric. They are very helpful and them Billboards Etc. sent you!