Everything you need to know about Aluminum Dibond for your photo boards
Everything You Need to Know About Dibond Aluminum — The Premium Support for My Mountain Photo Prints
After testing numerous materials for my mountain photographs—photographic paper, canvas, plexiglass, acrylic glass—I chose matte Dibond aluminum as the exclusive medium for my photo prints. This choice is not insignificant: Dibond aluminum offers unparalleled technical and aesthetic qualities to enhance my images of the French Alps .
In this comprehensive guide, I explain why Alu Dibond is the ideal support for mountain photo prints, how it is made, its advantages, and how to maintain it.
What is Dibond Aluminum? — Composition and Manufacturing
Dibond structure
Alu Dibond (also called Dibond or Alucobond) is a composite material made up of 3 layers :
- 2 sheets of aluminum (0.3 mm each) on the surface
- 1 polyethylene core (2.4 mm) in the center
- Total thickness : 3 mm
This sandwich structure gives Dibond exceptional rigidity while remaining lightweight (approximately 3.5 kg/m²).
Matte Finish — My Choice for Photography
I exclusively use a matte finish for my photo prints. Unlike glossy finishes, which create reflections, matte offers:
- No glare : Comfortable reading even facing a window
- Professional finish : Art gallery look
- Deep blacks : Essential for my high mountain photos
- True-to-life colors : Accurate reproduction of the subtle hues of sunrises and sunsets
Why I Chose Dibond Aluminum for My Mountain Photos
1. Exceptional Visual Rendering
Direct printing on aluminum offers an unparalleled finish :
- Perfect sharpness : Every detail of the glaciers, ridges and rocks is visible
- High contrast : Deep blacks and pure whites enhance my snow photos
- Vibrant colors : The hues of sunsets are faithfully reproduced
- Depth effect : The image appears to float on the surface
2. Durability and Resistance
My paintings are designed to last for decades:
- Moisture resistant : Perfect for a mountain chalet
- Does not warp : Unlike paper or canvas
- UV resistant : The colors do not fade over time
- Shock resistant : Rigid and robust structure
- Unaffected by temperature variations : Ideal for second homes
3. Lightweight and Easy to Install
Despite its rigidity, Dibond aluminum remains very lightweight :
- 3.5 kg/m² : A 70×100 cm painting weighs approximately 2.5 kg
- Easy to hang : Discreet hanging system included
- No frame needed : Modern and clean look
- Safe : Can be hung in a child's room without risk
4. Premium and Modern Appearance
Dibond aluminum gives my photographs an art gallery look :
- Clean edges : Professional finish
- Contemporary look : Fits into any interior
- Floating effect : The image appears to be suspended from the wall
- Perceived quality : High-end support recognized by professionals
Aluminum Dibond vs. Other Substrates — Comparison
| Support | Benefits | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Matte Dibond Aluminum | ✅ No reflection ✅ Lightweight and rigid ✅ Durable ✅ Premium rendering |
Price slightly higher |
| Framed photo print | Affordable price | ❌ Deforms ❌ Sensitive to humidity ❌ Glass reflections |
| Canvas | Artistic aspect | ❌ Less sharpness ❌ Visible texture ❌ Relaxes over time |
| Plexiglass | Brilliant, modern | ❌ Important Reflections ❌ Heavy ❌ Fragile (scratches) |
How are my Dibond aluminum prints made?
Manufacturing Process (100% French)
- Image selection : I choose my best high-resolution photographs
- File preparation : Color calibration and optimization for printing
- Direct UV printing : High-quality UV inks printed directly onto aluminum
- UV curing : Instant polymerization for maximum durability
- Precision cutting : Exact dimensions to the millimeter
- Installation of the hanging system : Discreet attachment to the back of the painting
- Quality control : I personally check each print
- Careful packaging : Optimal protection for delivery
Available Formats and Selection Tips
My Dibond aluminum prints are available in several sizes:
- 30×40 cm : Small format for desk, console or wall composition
- 40×60 cm : Intermediate size for bedroom or hallway
- 50×70 cm : Versatile format, the most popular
- 60×90 cm : Large format for living room or centerpiece
- 70×100 cm : XXL format for maximum impact
My advice : For a living room, I recommend 60×90 cm or 70×100 cm. For a bedroom or office, 50×70 cm is ideal.
Installation and Hanging — My Recommendations
All my paintings are ready to hang with a hanging system included:
- Magnetic system or hook depending on the format
- Ideal height : 1.50 m to 1.60 m from the ground (center of the painting at eye level)
- Recommended wall color : White or light grey to highlight the contrasts
- Lighting : Avoid direct sunlight to preserve colors
👉 Check out my complete installation guide
Maintenance of Your Dibond Aluminum Panel
The interview is very simple :
- Dusting : Dry or slightly damp microfiber cloth
- Cleaning : Warm water + mild soap if necessary
- Drying : Soft, lint-free cloth
- Avoid : Abrasive products, alcohol, solvents
Frequency : Dusting every 2-3 months is sufficient.
Why Dibond Aluminum Is Eco-Friendly
- Recyclable aluminum : 100% infinitely recyclable
- Durability : No replacement needed for decades
- Made in France : Short supply chains, reduced carbon footprint
- No frame : Less material, less waste
My Collections in Matte Aluminum Dibond
Discover all my photographs printed on Alu Dibond:
- Mont Blanc : Aiguille du Midi, Mer de Glace, Drus
- Vanoise : Grande Casse, mountain huts, glaciers
- Chartreuse : Chamechaude, Dent de Crolles, Mont Granier
- Écrins : Barre des Écrins, Meije, glaciers
- All my photos of the French Alps
Frequently Asked Questions about Dibond Aluminum
Is Alu Dibond resistant to humidity?
Yes, absolutely. Aluminum and polyethylene are impervious to moisture. You can install an Alu Dibond panel in a bathroom or a mountain chalet without any problem.
Can you hang an Alu Dibond picture without drilling?
Yes, for smaller formats (30×40 cm, 40×60 cm), you can use Command-type adhesive mounting strips. For larger formats, I recommend traditional wall mounting for added security.
Does Dibond aluminum yellow over time?
No. Unlike paper, aluminum does not yellow. UV inks are also very resistant to aging.
What is the lifespan of an Alu Dibond picture?
Several decades if the painting is properly maintained and protected from direct sunlight.
Can Alu Dibond be recycled?
Yes, aluminum is 100% recyclable. The central polyethylene can also be recycled through certain channels.
Order your Dibond aluminum photo print
Browse my complete collection of Alpine photo prints and discover the exceptional quality of matte Dibond aluminum. Each photograph is printed with the utmost care in France to enhance your interior.
Need advice on choosing your format or photo? Contact me , I'd be happy to help.
