Static billboards start with a well-printed skin that holds colour in strong sun. Boldmedia Print Zimbabwe prints billboard skins on outdoor PVC or mesh and can arrange installation. Billboards may need a site survey before a formal quotation.
A static billboard is a large outdoor advertising structure that displays a printed image — usually a PVC or mesh skin stretched over the face, or pasted paper panels — rather than a changing digital screen. One advertiser holds the face for the campaign period, so the message is seen by every passer-by at all hours. Static billboards are used for brand awareness, property launches, retail directions and long-running campaigns along roads and highways.
Compared with digital billboards, static faces cost less to run, need no power unless they are floodlit, and are not shared with rotating advertisers. Their weakness is that changing the message means printing and installing a new skin. A good static billboard pairs a strong structure with a short, bold message, high-contrast colours and a print that is properly tensioned so it stays flat in wind.
Where it works well
- Brand awareness campaigns on main routes
- Directional billboards to stores and venues
- Property development launches
- Event and seasonal promotions
- Own-site billboards on company premises
- Political, public and community campaigns
Materials and finishes
- Printed PVC flex skins
- Mesh skins for windy locations
- Tensioning frames and keder or rope systems
- Steel billboard structure and face frame
- Paper poster panels where the structure is designed for them
Lighting options
- Non-illuminated
- LED floodlights mounted on the structure
- Solar-powered lighting where practical
What affects the price
- Face size
- PVC or mesh skin
- New structure or skin only
- Number of faces and flighting changes
- Access, height and crane or platform requirements
- Lighting and electrical supply
- Approvals and permits
Supplying measurements
For an existing billboard, send the face size and tensioning system so the skin can be made to fit. For a new structure, share the site location, preferred face size and photos from the road.
Artwork requirements
Supply artwork to scale in CMYK as a print-ready PDF, with images at a resolution suitable for large-format viewing distance. Keep the message short: a logo, one line and a call to action reads best at speed.
Survey and installation
Skins are installed at height and need suitable access equipment and safety measures. New billboard structures require engineering input where required, municipal outdoor advertising approval and a site survey before a formal quotation.
Maintenance
Inspect the skin tension and fixings after strong winds, as a loose skin wears quickly. Replace faded skins promptly; a tired billboard reflects poorly on the advertiser.
Frequently asked questions
Static or digital billboard — which should I choose?
Static suits a single message seen continuously; digital suits advertisers who want to change content often or share a site with others.
Can you print and install a skin on a billboard we already rent?
Yes, if you provide the face size and the media owner's installation requirements.
Why use mesh instead of PVC?
Mesh lets wind pass through, reducing load on the structure in exposed locations.