Signboard vs. Hoarding — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 27, 2024
"Signboard" refers to any board displaying information or directions, whereas "hoarding" typically means a large outdoor billboard used for advertising.
Difference Between Signboard and Hoarding
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A signboard is generally a flat surface bearing signs, notices, or directions, useful in various contexts from roads to buildings, while a hoarding is specifically designed for displaying advertisements and is often found in high-traffic areas.
Signboards can be made of different materials like wood, metal, or plastic and vary in size, whereas hoardings are usually larger and constructed from more durable materials to withstand outdoor conditions.
The purpose of a signboard is primarily informational or directional, guiding people or providing safety instructions, on the other hand, a hoarding is used for promotional purposes, aiming to attract the attention of a large audience.
In terms of visibility, signboards may be smaller or less conspicuous compared to hoardings, which are strategically placed to be visible from a distance and often illuminated for night visibility.
Regulatory requirements for signboards can differ significantly from those for hoardings, as hoardings may need special permits due to their size and public placement, while signboards are more commonly regulated by local building codes.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A board displaying information or directions
A large outdoor billboard for advertisements
Size
Varies, often smaller
Large, designed to be seen from a distance
Material
Wood, metal, plastic
Durable materials suited for outdoor exposure
Purpose
Informational, directional
Promotional, advertising
Placement Regulations
Subject to local building codes
Requires permits for public and prominent locations
Compare with Definitions
Signboard
A board displaying signs or notices.
The entrance had a signboard with the company's logo.
Hoarding
Requires special permits due to its size and impact.
The company obtained a permit before erecting the hoarding.
Signboard
Often placed inside or outside buildings.
The emergency exit was clearly marked by a signboard.
Hoarding
Often placed in strategic, high-traffic areas.
The hoarding stood at a busy intersection to maximize visibility.
Signboard
Can be temporary or permanent.
During construction, temporary signboards indicate detours.
Hoarding
Designed to attract public attention.
The hoarding featured a striking ad for the latest smartphone.
Signboard
Regulated by local authorities.
The new signboard outside the café met all the local zoning regulations.
Hoarding
Commonly illuminated for nighttime visibility.
The hoarding was brightly lit, even late at night.
Signboard
Used for providing directions.
At the park, a signboard directs visitors to various attractions.
Hoarding
A large billboard used for advertising.
A new movie was advertised on a hoarding along the highway.
Signboard
A board bearing a sign.
Hoarding
Hoarding is a behavior where people or animals accumulate food or other items.
Signboard
(US) A board carrying a sign, or on which signs may be posted.
Hoarding
A temporary wooden fence around a building or structure under construction or repair.
Signboard
A board, placed on or before a shop, office, etc., on which ssome notice is given, as the name of a firm, of a business, or the like.
Hoarding
Often hoardings An overhanging wooden structure temporarily mounted atop the walls of a fortification to aid in repelling attackers. Also called brattice.
Signboard
Structure displaying a board on which advertisements can be posted;
The highway was lined with signboards
Hoarding
Chiefly British A billboard.
Hoarding
(UK) A temporary fence-like structure built around building work to add security and prevent accidents to the public.
Hoarding
A roofed wooden shield placed over the battlements of a castle and projecting from them.
Hoarding
A billboard.
Hoarding
The practice by of accumulating goods.
Hoarding
A good which is hoarded.
Hoarding
(psychology) An anxiety disorder characterized by a compulsive need to accumulate goods and feelings of anxiety or discomfort about discarding such goods.
Hoarding
Present participle of hoard
Hoarding
A screen of boards inclosing a house and materials while builders are at work.
Posted on every dead wall and hoarding.
Hoarding
A fence, barrier, or cover, inclosing, surrounding, or concealing something.
The whole arrangement was surrounded by a hoarding, the space within which was divided into compartments by sheets of tin.
Hoarding
Large outdoor signboard
Common Curiosities
What is the primary function of a signboard compared to a hoarding?
Signboards are primarily used for information and direction, while hoardings are used for advertising.
Where would you typically find a hoarding?
Hoardings are often found along highways or in other high-traffic outdoor areas.
What type of permissions are needed for erecting a hoarding?
Erecting a hoarding typically requires special permits due to its size and public placement.
Can a signboard be used for advertising?
Yes, signboards can be used for advertising, but they are usually smaller and less prominent than hoardings.
How are signboards and hoardings affected by weather conditions?
Hoardings are built to withstand outdoor conditions, including harsh weather, whereas signboards may vary in durability based on the material.
Can hoardings be digital?
Yes, digital hoardings are increasingly common, displaying animated or changing advertisements.
How does the design of a signboard differ from a hoarding?
Signboards are simpler and focused on clarity and functionality, while hoardings are designed for visual impact and attention-grabbing.
What is an example of a creative use of a signboard?
A signboard inside a zoo might creatively use animal footprints to lead visitors to different exhibits.
Is there a size limit for signboards?
The size of signboards can vary, but they are generally smaller and less obtrusive than hoardings.
How effective are hoardings in advertising?
Hoardings are highly effective in advertising due to their size and strategic placement for maximum visibility.
What legal considerations affect the placement of signboards and hoardings?
Legal considerations for placing signboards and hoardings include visibility, safety, and compliance with local advertising regulations.
Are there environmental concerns associated with hoardings?
Yes, environmental concerns such as visual pollution and material waste are associated with hoardings.
What materials are used to make hoardings?
Hoardings are usually made from materials like vinyl, wood, or metal that can endure prolonged outdoor exposure.
How long can a hoarding remain in place?
A hoarding can remain in place as long as it maintains structural integrity and complies with local advertising laws.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
