Is a styrofoam sign for a parade float a good idea?

Question

I need to make a sign or banner for a Halloween Parade. Whatever I use will be attached to a 2x4 frame. I have some large styrofoam sheets that I could carve out and paint to look like weathered wood, and I know it would look cool, but I'm just worried about the wind factor. Do you think styrofoam could be nailed to the wood? Will it snap in half if the wind catches it? Is there a way to make it stronger?

Answer 1

In essence you'll be creating a sail.

"An Amatuer built the "Kon Tiki"...Professionals built the "Titanic"...If ya get my "drift"

One consideration might be the thickness of the sheet; the framework weight; and who/what; will bear the banner.

Certainly it can look cool (using your words); but nails aren't strictly the way to attach it. Better; or as good; would be Liquid Nails; or some such. Pray for a calm day/night; for the parade too.

Backing up. Will this be attached to a float? Will it be hand carried? (2x4's) can be heavy) Obviously a parade suggests forward motion. Certainly if on a float one might suspect you could align the banner parallel with the crowd; NOT face on; perpendicular to the bystanders on the curb. Head on or otherwise might mean adding some HOLES to the sign allowing breezes a passage way through it. Certainly it could add to an aged, worn effect.
If you have to NAIL the sheet, use shielded shingle nails and perhaps glue the perimeter of the sign with molding strips adding support for the nails, without so much concern about them actually holding the sheet to the frame.
Also we have no idea of the size. I assume to be effective and visible it might have to be as large as 4' x 8' ???

Steven Wolf

Answer 2

I think it would break, given my experience with it. However, you could increase it's wind strength by attaching it to a solid frame, even cardboard (you could attach with liquid nails) would provide a good backing. Attaching with a glue, and sealing all the edges well would be better than nails because if wind gets under an edge then it will cause lift, and be more likely to break.

Answer 3

hi
dont't worrie about it snapping make sure it's fire proof
cheers
john