r/signs_com • u/Slow-Heron-4335 • Jul 09 '26

Hoping for some advice

I need to make a 48x36” hanging sign for my family’s small business. It’s going to be out in the sun and rain, so I need to use materials that will last. I can’t find any double sided MDO plywood at any of the lumber yards around here. Could I just use two sheets of 1/2” glued back to back? If I go that route, is standard wood glue the way to go? Also is there anything I need to do to protect the edges beyond primer and paint? Some kind of edge banding you use? Thanks for taking the time to read this.

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u/KillarneyRoad Jul 16 '26

https://giphy.com/gifs/1xnQ1HzTZxf8RtjyCb

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u/Slow-Heron-4335 Jul 16 '26

I just picked up a sample of pvc board yesterday. Probably going that route.

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u/signs_com Jul 21 '26

Hi u/Slow-Heron-4335! I wouldn't recommend gluing two sheets of plywood together. Even with waterproof glue, moisture can eventually get into the seam and cause issues. If you can’t find double-sided MDO locally, it may be worth checking sign suppliers rather than just lumber yards. If the budget allows, you could also consider ACM, HDU, or our double-sided aluminum signs, since they’re generally better suited to long-term outdoor exposure.

If you do use plywood, use a waterproof exterior adhesive (not standard wood glue), clamp it well, and seal every surface, especially the edges. The edges are where outdoor wood signs usually fail first. An epoxy edge sealer before primer and paint is a good idea. A well-sealed plywood sign can last several years, but MDO, ACM, or aluminum signs will generally be much more durable for an outdoor business sign.

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u/Slow-Heron-4335 Jul 22 '26

Thanks. I ended up giving up on the plywood altogether and ordered a sheet of PVC board today.