Introduction
You’re ordering a roller banner.
You’ve chosen the size.
You’ve finalised the design.
But then comes the question most people ignore
What material are roller banners actually made of?
Here’s the twist:
The material you choose can make the difference between a banner that looks premium and one that curls, fades, or looks cheap after one event.
And what most business owners don’t realise is this your competitor’s banner might look sharper simply because they chose better material.
Let’s break down the options clearly.
What Material Are Roller Banners Made Of?
Most roller banners are made from one of the following materials:
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
- Polypropylene
- Blockout Film
- Polyester Fabric
Each has different durability, finish, and performance benefits.
1️⃣ PVC – The Most Common Material
PVC is the standard material used in most UK roller banners.
Features:
- Smooth finish
- Durable
- Slightly flexible
- Water-resistant
Advantages:
- Affordable
- Easy to print on
- Good colour vibrancy
Benefits:
- Ideal for indoor exhibitions
- Cost-effective for short-term use
- Reliable for trade shows
However, cheaper PVC can curl at the edges over time.
If you want strong results, choose premium-grade PVC from professional large format printing services.
2️⃣ Polypropylene, Lightweight Alternative
Polypropylene is a lighter, eco-friendlier option.
Features:
- Tear-resistant
- Smooth matte finish
- Less prone to curling
Advantages:
- Lighter than PVC
- Recyclable
- Better for eco-conscious brands
Benefits:
- Ideal for businesses promoting sustainability
- Clean professional look
- Durable for repeated indoor use
Many premium exhibition suppliers now recommend polypropylene for modern displays.
3️⃣ Blockout Film, No Light Show-Through
Blockout material includes a grey or black layer in the middle.
Why it matters:
Without blockout, strong lighting can cause:
- Light to pass through
- Washed-out colours
- Visible shadows
Features:
- Opaque centre layer
- Vibrant print finish
- Professional appearance
Benefits:
- Ideal for brightly lit exhibition halls
- Prevents distraction
- Maintains strong colour contrast
What most businesses don’t realise is this blockout material often makes banners look more premium.
4️⃣ Polyester Fabric, Premium Look
Some higher-end roller banners use polyester fabric.
Features:
- Soft finish
- Less glare
- Anti-curl properties
Advantages:
- Premium appearance
- Reduced light reflection
- Lightweight
Benefits:
- Ideal for luxury brands
- Better for photography-heavy designs
- Long-lasting for repeated use
Fabric banners feel more refined, but may cost slightly more.
Are Roller Banners Waterproof?
Most PVC and polypropylene roller banners are:
✔ Water-resistant
✔ Suitable for indoor use
✔ Occasionally usable outdoors (in calm conditions)
However, roller banner mechanisms are not designed for strong wind.
For outdoor use, consider specialised outdoor banner systems instead of standard pull-ups.
Which Material Lasts the Longest?
For durability:
- Premium PVC with blockout → Excellent for frequent use
- Polypropylene → Good anti-curl performance
- Polyester fabric → Long-lasting premium look
Longevity depends on:
- Storage
- Transport
- Frequency of use
- Quality of mechanism
Investing in better materials prevents frequent replacements saving money long term.
5 Benefits of Choosing the Right Material
✔ Blockout Layer → Prevents washed-out colours
✔ Premium Finish → Avoids “cheap” brand perception
✔ Anti-Curl Material → Keeps banner looking straight
✔ Durable Surface → Withstands repeated use
✔ Water Resistance → Adds flexibility for events
Cheap material might save money today but cost you credibility tomorrow.
Before vs After
Before:
Thin material. Light showing through. Edges curling.
After:
Smooth finish. Sharp colours. Professional appearance.
Bridge:
Choosing the right banner material + quality printing.
Your competitors know presentation influences trust.
Authority bias is real people trust businesses that look established.
How to Choose the Right Material
Ask yourself:
- Will this be used once or repeatedly?
- Is the venue brightly lit?
- Do I want matte or glossy finish?
- Is eco-friendliness important to my brand?
If budget allows, choose blockout polypropylene or premium PVC.
It’s an investment in brand perception.
Final Thoughts, Material Impacts More Than You Think
Your roller banner material affects:
- Print clarity
- Durability
- Professional appearance
- Brand perception
Most people focus on design.
Smart businesses focus on material quality too.
👉 Ready to grow your business with high-quality roller banners? Contact Social Media Max today.
Don’t wait your competitors won’t.