A café barrier system typically includes three parts: (1) the printed banner or panel (the visible graphic), (2) the cross-rail or fixing method that secures the banner to the posts, and (3) the vertical posts and weighted bases that keep the system upright and stable.

Material choice affects durability, wind performance, visual finish and the fixing method required. For example, lightweight fabric needs tensioned fixings; heavy PVC needs robust bases and may require mesh in windy sites.

PVC blockout is a heavy vinyl with an opaque backing so light doesn’t show through. Use it where full opacity and bold colour coverage are required — for maximum brand impact or double-sided displays. It’s very weather-resistant but can act like a sail in high winds, so ensure appropriate bases or sheltered placement.

PVC mesh is a perforated vinyl that lets air pass through. It’s ideal for exposed or coastal terraces because it reduces wind uplift while still providing good print quality. Expect a slight loss in solid colour density due to the perforations.

Outdoor acrylic (textured canvas) is chosen for a premium, matt finish and a higher-end look. It offers good UV resistance and a tactile appearance suited to upscale hospitality venues; it’s generally pricier than PVC.

Polyester textiles printed by dye-sublimation produce vivid, low-glare graphics with a soft finish. They’re great for covered terraces or indoor cafés. Lighter fabrics should be tensioned to avoid fluttering in wind.

Typical ranges are: fabrics ~115–260 g/m², breathable PVC mesh ~270 g/m² (varies), and heavy blockout PVC up to ~440 gsm. Exact weights depend on the supplier and product line.

Standard banner widths often match common post spacings (for example ~975mm, 1275mm, 1775mm), with heights typically 780–900mm, though exact dimensions depend on the café barrier system and supplier.

Common options: stainless steel (premium, durable and corrosion-resistant), aluminium (lightweight, powder-coated options), and powder-coated steel (robust and cost-effective). Choose stainless or powder-coated finishes for coastal or high-traffic locations.

Options include concrete-filled bases with metal covers (very stable for semi-permanent sites), rubber or cast-iron bases (portable and floor-friendly), and plastic water/sand-fill bases (easy to move when empty — good for seasonal set-ups). Choose based on permanence and site-safety needs.

Post heights commonly range near 880–990mm and base diameters typically fall in the 320–360mm range, but check the supplier’s product spec for precise dimensions.

Common fixings: pole pockets/ hems (slide over cross-rail), eyelets/grommets (for tied or hooked fixings), silicone edge/SEG and zipper systems (for tight, frameless tensioned finishes), and Velcro/hook-and-loop (for quick-change panels).

Silicone edge (SEG) and zip systems provide the neatest, tensioned, frameless look; double-stitched hems and reinforced corners give the most durable finish for heavy-use sites.

PVC typically uses solvent, eco-solvent, latex or UV printing. Polyester fabrics are commonly printed by dye-sublimation. The material generally dictates the best printing process.

Longevity depends on ink type, material, and exposure. With UV-stable inks and UV-stabilised materials you can expect multiple seasons of life; however, bright, exposed locations may reduce that lifespan. Ask suppliers for an estimated outdoor life for the specific material and ink used.

Solid PVC acts like a sail and can cause uplift or stress on posts in windy locations. For exposed sites use mesh materials, heavier bases, closer post spacing or additional fixings to reduce wind loading.

For permanent or engineered installations, consider local codes and guidance on wind loading (e.g., regional structural design standards). For public or council spaces, your supplier or installer should confirm compliance with applicable design guidance.

Yes. Fabrics and some banner materials can be supplied with fire-retardant treatments or specified to meet common standards. If your venue requires certification (for covered terraces, licensed premises or public venues), request FR-certified materials and the supplier’s test documentation.

Regularly clean banners with mild detergent and water; avoid abrasive chemicals or bleach that can damage inks/coatings. Store panels dry and rolled or flat away from sunlight when not in use.

Lifespan varies: mesh often fares better in windy conditions because it reduces stress; heavy PVC lasts multiple seasons if UV-stable and cared for. Exact life expectancy depends on site exposure and material selection.

Provide this checklist for quick, accurate quotes:

• Material choice (e.g., 270g PVC mesh / 440gsm blockout PVC / 260gsm polyester fabric) and whether flame retardant (FR) is required.
• Exact panel size (W x H) and number of panels.
• Fixing method (pole pockets / eyelets / silicone edge / zipper).
• Post and base type (e.g., stainless 304 posts + concrete-filled bases / rubber bases).
• Printing method and artwork specs (CMYK, bleed, file format).
• Finishings (double-stitched hems, reinforced corners) and any certification docs required.

Yes — example copy you can paste into supplier RFQs:

Material: 270g PVC mesh, flame retardant (if required).
Panel size: [W mm] x [H mm] — quantity: [#].
Fixing: top & bottom pole pockets + reinforced corners.
Posts/Bases: stainless steel posts (304) with concrete-filled covers.
Print: full-colour CMYK, 5mm bleed, print resolution 150–300 dpi.
Finish: double-stitched hems; provide FR certificate if applicable.

PVC mesh with stainless posts and heavy or concrete-filled bases for best wind performance and durability.

Outdoor acrylic canvas or dye-sublimated polyester on powder-coated or aluminium posts for a premium, low-glare finish.

Use blockout PVC with robust bases and closer post spacing — but ensure wind-loading is managed.

Often yes. For installations on pavements or public areas you may require council permission, licences or landlord approval. For permanent or semi-permanent fixtures, consult local street-furniture rules and confirm any structural or safety requirements.

Your supplier or installer should advise and confirm suitability. For engineered or permanent fixtures they should provide guidance aligned with local structural design standards or arrange a certified assessment if required.