Exterior (Outside) Frame

YBFramed

YBFramed

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Jul 2, 2020
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California
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You've Been Framed
Hello All. I have a client who has asked for a frame on an exterior sign. He knows it won't last forever, but would like to proceed with at least a temporary solution to achieve his vision. I showed him some polystyrene options, which he likes. Has anyone ever put a water-protection varnish (like Marine-Var) on a frame to protect it from the elements? Any thoughts or suggestions are welcome. Thanks in advance.
 

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What is your definition of temporary and why polyurethane which is most likely to be destroyed with UV in an area that appears to be in southern California?
 
Six months would be "temporary". This would be installed in a coastal community, so dampness from fog and only occasional rain would be the weather concern.
 
You have not showed us any of the profiles that they have approved. My thought is how will you prep this moulding for exterior use by applying an exterior grade of varnish? Not all varnishes are compatible, adhesion wise with polystyrene. You might have to use a "sealer" under the top layer of varnish. You might want to make some tests of the moulding and varnish to check for adhesion. Read the instructions for the varnish carefully if you have not used it before regarding its durability. You could also contact the manufacturer of the varnish for advise.
If it were me, I would use raw wood to start with so that I have control over the layering of any finish with proven technology for you climate.
 
I understand your reasoning for polystyrene...lower cost and lightweight. I would think a simple clear spray such as you can buy at Lowes or Home Depot would work. Just spray some onto a short piece of the moulding and let it dry for a bit to see if there is any reaction, and that it dries quickly as it should.
Living in Southern Arizona in the desert, I have seen woods that don't hold up and polyethylene pipes only last 3-4 years when expoed to high temps and desert sun, unless they are coated with a special paint, but polystyrene moulding should last at least a year in your environment.
 
We have a (Studio) frame that was in a window at our old location from 2002-2017, and had a neon sign inside. It had direct sunlight every day.

When we moved to the new location in 2017, we bolted it to the outside side of the building - where it has been since. (with an outside sign, instead of neon) It gets direct sunlight every day, but is under an overhang. Shockingly, it is still hanging on - although showing signs of wear. Gesso is starting to crack, and it's looking REALLY tired.

1762192203495.webp

still
 
Is that the actual sign, yet to be painted?
My first issue would be flakeboard.

With poly you are pretty much in uncharted territory with exterior applications.
I would make sure the glue joints are complete surface even at the risk of getting some on the face.
Clamp until set and use a minimum number of V-nails, if any at all. It's unlikely the joint will fail.
I have no idea if an exterior varnish could be used or if there would be any advantage in doing so.

Best of luck.
Keep notes and please report back on the results.
 
I don't like nor carry polystyrene... however, I do remember it being recommended for use in humid scenarios like bathroom mirrors because it doesn't absorb water like a wood frame does. Would that not already make it a perfect use in this case? The color may fade a little, but not quickly enough to be a deal breaker. And if it is strictly decorative, as in not supporting the weight of the sign, what could go wrong?
 
About 15 years ago, I put my company van's license plates in extruded polystyrene mouldings. I also heated and formed poly frames to fit the side-windows' curvature and surround the vinyl company logo on the glass, using double-sided tape to attach it. It was eye-catching and fit my business theme.

I did not apply anything to the poly moulding and it lasted about three years before it faded enough to warrant removal. That said, I'm sure the range of poly moulding quality has expanded since 2010, so I suggest testing several profiles and finishes to see what works best.
 
I've CNC'd various shaped frames using exterior MDF which were then gold leafed and sprayed with a clear exterior finish. They are hanging in an outside location which is subject to the weather. Granted, the weather in San Diego is pretty mild but we do get periodic strong rains and of course lots of sunshine. They've been up for a few years now and still look good.
 
My shop sign is 'framed' with a stained Ramin moulding which I applied about six coats of
exterior polyurethane varnish to. The sign itself is marine ply which I treated the same. It's been hanging
over my door for 30 years in the sun and rain. OK, it does look a bit scabby now but you can
still read it clearly. :) We have grown old together. 😅
 
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