Exhibition stand materials: timber, aluminium, fabric and flooring

8 types

stand types separated by material family

Stand types

1–10 days

build time that changes with the material

Stand types

Structure: timber or aluminium

A timber frame gives free form: curved walls, suspended ceilings, surfaces painted in brand colours. It is fully assembled and checked in the workshop and joined piece by piece in the hall. The surface is painted MDF, laminate or natural veneer; painting is done in the workshop and only touch-ups remain on site.

Aluminium box profile (the maxima system) builds quickly and gives height: columns go up to 6 metres and wide spans are crossed without rigging. Panels and graphics attach to the profile and size changes are easy. Surfaces are printed panels; where a painted surface is wanted, timber cladding is added.

The decision follows calendar and form: a two-day build window and a tall stand call for aluminium, brand differentiation and free form call for timber. We also use both on one stand: aluminium frame, timber facade. The types are compared on the stand types page.

Graphic surfaces

Printed panel (foam PVC, composite or film on MDF) gives the sharpest image; on large surfaces the joint shows, so we align panels with the lines of the design. Tension fabric is printed in one piece, has no joints and folds for transport; fabric lit from behind becomes a lightwall.

An LED lightbox is used for the brand logo and the product image; it is 8 to 12 centimetres thick and is recessed into the profile or the timber wall. Vinyl film covers flat surfaces, turns corners and is cheap, but is discarded after dismantling.

Every graphic surface has a reading distance: text to be read from the aisle is printed at least ten centimetres high, text to be read at the meeting table at two centimetres. Print file preparation is described on our design page.

Display, floor and fire class

In showcases and shelving, acrylic is light and takes shape but scratches; toughened glass is heavy, does not scratch and is preferred in locked showcases for valuable products. Metal shelving carries heavy products and the load is noted in the drawing.

On the floor, carpet is the most common, cheapest and single-use option. Laminate looks durable and clean in the product area. A raised platform hides cables, separates the stand from the aisle and needs a floor load calculation for heavy products.

Organisers ask for the fire class of materials: flame-retardant certificates for carpet, fabric and timber are submitted before the build. Uncertified material is not admitted to the hall. We hand the material list and certificates to the organiser in the same week as production; the process is on our exhibition stand services page.

MDF or chipboard?

MDF; its surface is smooth, takes paint evenly and its edge can be shaped. Chipboard is used only in load-bearing parts that stay out of sight.

Can tension fabric be used without backlighting?

Yes; unlit fabric is the lightest solution for large, seamless walls. If light is wanted, LED modules are added behind it and the fabric stays the same.

What happens to the materials after the fair?

Graphic panels and your own products are separated and sent to your address; the body is sorted for recycling at dismantling. We produce every stand only for the fair it is going to.