For many years, PVC banners and formboard displays were the standard solutions for event backdrops in Singapore. They were widely used for conferences, exhibitions, media walls, product launches, award ceremonies and corporate events because there were few practical alternatives at the time.
At Davis Materialworks, we also started with these traditional methods. Like many companies in the industry, we built wooden structures, mounted PVC graphics, installed formboard panels and completed countless events using these systems.
However, as the event industry evolved, so did our expectations. Clients began demanding faster installation, cleaner presentation, shorter venue occupation time, reusable systems and more environmentally responsible solutions. After years of practical experience, we gradually transitioned from traditional construction methods to modern Tension Backdrop and Freestanding Backdrop systems.
Today, although PVC and formboard still have their place in certain applications, we believe there is a better solution for most modern events.
The Traditional Method
A traditional backdrop installation usually begins with constructing a supporting framework on-site. Depending on the design, this may consist of timber strips, plywood panels or a metal support structure.
Once the framework is completed, the printed artwork is mounted onto the structure. PVC graphics are commonly stretched and stapled onto wooden panels, while formboard graphics are fixed onto timber or metal framing.
Although this method has been used successfully for many years, it involves several installation stages before the backdrop is ready for use.
PVC Backdrops – Reliable but Labour Intensive
PVC remains a popular material because it is durable and suitable for many indoor applications. However, from our installation experience, it also comes with several practical considerations.
Most PVC graphics are printed using solvent or latex printing technology. Depending on the artwork and viewing distance, the finished surface can appear rougher than dye-sublimated fabric graphics due to both the printing process and the texture of the material itself.
PVC graphics are generally mounted by stapling them onto timber panels after the supporting structure has been assembled. This means the installation cannot begin until the wooden framework has been completed.
Freshly printed PVC graphics, together with timber materials, may also produce an odour during installation, especially in enclosed indoor venues.
The process is reliable, but it requires more preparation, more manpower and more installation time.
Formboard Displays Have Their Own Limitations
Formboard is another common material used for event graphics and directional displays.
While it performs well for smaller applications, larger backdrop walls often require several boards to be joined together because of the limited sheet size. Although installers always aim for accurate alignment, slight variations between panels can sometimes become noticeable, particularly on artwork with continuous patterns or straight graphic lines.
Formboard is also relatively easy to dent or chip during transportation, handling or dismantling. Once damaged, the affected panel often needs to be replaced.
Similar to PVC installations, formboard graphics still require a supporting framework before the artwork can be mounted.
The Challenges of Wooden Structures
One aspect that many people never see is the supporting structure hidden behind the finished backdrop.
Traditional backdrop installations commonly rely on wooden panels and timber strips. Since these materials are frequently reused across multiple events, their condition naturally changes over time.
It is common to find reused panels with old staple holes, screw holes, nail marks or signs of previous installations. Depending on storage conditions, some timber may also accumulate dust, stains or unpleasant odours after repeated use.
Although these imperfections are usually hidden once the artwork is installed, they can increase installation time and require additional preparation by the installation team.
More Manpower, More Time and More Waste
Traditional backdrop construction involves multiple stages before the final display is completed.
The supporting structure must first be assembled, followed by the installation of timber panels before the printed graphics can finally be mounted. After the event, the entire structure has to be dismantled again.
Compared with modern modular systems, this process generally requires:
- More installation manpower
- Longer setup and dismantling time
- Additional on-site cutting and cleaning
- More transportation of bulky materials
- Higher disposal requirements for damaged timber and construction waste
In some venues, disposing of unwanted wooden panels may also result in additional waste disposal charges.
Why We Chose Tension Fabric Systems
As our experience grew, we began searching for solutions that could improve both efficiency and presentation without compromising quality.
This led us to adopt reusable aluminium frame systems with tension fabric graphics.
Unlike traditional construction methods, the aluminium frame is designed specifically for repeated assembly and dismantling. Once the frame is erected, the fabric graphic is simply installed to create a smooth, wrinkle-free display.
The difference is immediately noticeable.
Installation becomes significantly faster, fewer installers are required, there is very little site cleaning, and the overall appearance is cleaner and more professional.
For many corporate events, exhibitions, conferences and product launches, this modern system has become our preferred recommendation.
Better Looking Graphics
Another advantage of modern fabric graphics is the print quality.
Using dye-sublimation printing on premium stretch fabric produces vibrant colours, sharp images and a smooth, seamless finish without visible staples or wrinkles.
Because the graphic is tensioned evenly across the aluminium frame, the finished backdrop delivers a clean and premium appearance suitable for photography, media interviews, corporate branding and exhibition displays.
Built for Reuse
One of the biggest advantages of our Tension Backdrop and Freestanding Backdrop systems is reusability.
The aluminium frame can be used repeatedly for different events. When artwork changes, only the printed fabric needs to be replaced while the existing frame continues to be used.
This reduces material waste, minimises unnecessary reconstruction and offers better long-term value for organisations that organise events regularly.
It also supports a more environmentally responsible approach compared with rebuilding timber structures for every project.
Choosing the Right Solution
PVC banners and formboard displays continue to serve specific applications, particularly where temporary graphics or smaller installations are required.
However, based on our years of hands-on experience, we believe modern tension fabric systems provide clear advantages for most event backdrops.
Clients benefit from:
- Faster installation and dismantling
- Reduced manpower requirements
- Cleaner installation with minimal site waste
- Smooth, wrinkle-free graphics
- Reusable aluminium frame systems
- Easier transportation and storage
- More sustainable event solutions
- Professional appearance suitable for premium events
For us, the difference between traditional backdrop construction and modern tension fabric systems is more than just a change of material—it represents a completely different way of delivering event displays that are faster, cleaner, more efficient and better suited to today's event industry.
Experience the Difference Before You Decide
We understand that selecting the right backdrop solution is an important investment, whether you are purchasing or renting for a single event or planning multiple future projects.
While photographs and specifications are helpful, nothing compares to seeing the products in person. Watching a backdrop being assembled and dismantled provides a much better understanding of its construction, stability, portability and overall efficiency.
To help our customers make informed decisions, Davis Materialworks offers demonstration appointments for our Tension Backdrop and Freestanding Backdrop systems.
During the session, you will have the opportunity to:
- See how quickly each system is assembled and dismantled.
- Understand the engineering behind the reusable aluminium frame.
- Compare the appearance and finishing of modern fabric graphics.
- Learn about transportation, storage and maintenance.
- Understand the differences between traditional construction methods and modern modular backdrop systems.
- Discuss which solution best suits your event, venue and budget.
Our team will also share practical insights gained from years of real event installations, helping you evaluate the overall value of each system—not just the initial cost, but also the manpower, installation time, reusability and long-term savings.
Whether you are organising a conference, exhibition, media wall, roadshow, product launch or corporate event, our goal is to help you choose the most suitable backdrop solution with confidence.
Demonstration appointments are available by prior arrangement. Please note that a service fee applies, as each session includes the preparation of the display systems, manpower, venue setup and personalised consultation with our product specialists.
