Signs are effective in attracting people, guiding visitors and promoting your business. You can increase foot traffic to your business with signs for your storefront, directional signs to help people find your business and billboards, promotional signs and other types of signs. But, if your sign is not properly installed, it can be difficult to read, may be dangerous for people to walk/drive past it and may be damaged by the weather.
To get the maximum effectiveness of your outdoor signs there are five (5) basic best practices to follow to ensure your outdoor signs are installed correctly and last as long as possible.
1. Choose the Right Location
Selecting the right location will make or break your signage. If people cannot easily see your sign even if it is the most beautiful sign in the world, it will not help your business.
When selecting a location consider:
1. Visibility from different distances and angles
2. Traffic flow (both pedestrian and vehicle)
3. Lighting conditions throughout the day
4. Possible obstructions like trees, poles, or buildings
Install signage where your target audience naturally looks or passes by. The goal is to make it noticeable without forcing people to search for it.
2. Ensure Strong and Secure Mounting
Outdoor signs can be subject to a wide range of environmental conditions including wind, rain, dust, and temperature change; so it is essential that signs are mounted very strongly otherwise they can become tilted or fall down due to weak mounting systems which introduces a safety issue.
To ensure stability:
1. Use durable mounting materials suitable for outdoor use
2. Match the mounting method to the surface (wall, pole, ground, etc.)
3. Check weight limits and structural strength
4. Tighten and secure all fittings properly
A securely mounted sign not only lasts longer but also protects people and property around it.
3. Use Weather-Resistant Materials
Outdoor environments can be harsh. Sunlight can fade colors, rain can cause rust, and wind can loosen parts. Choosing weather-resistant materials helps your signage stay clear and attractive for years.
Good material choices include:
● UV-resistant printing or coatings
● Rust-proof metals or treated wood
● Waterproof adhesives and sealants
● Protective laminates or finishes
Investing in quality materials reduces maintenance costs and keeps your signage looking professional.
4. Follow Local Rules and Safety Standards
In Many Places There Are Regulations Associated With The Size, Height, Placement,Illumination And Structure Of Exterior Signage. Not Following These Regulations May Result In Financial Penalties, Orders To Remove The Signage Or Potentially Expose One Or More People To Civil Liability.
Before installation:
● Check local guidelines and permit requirements
● Follow electrical safety rules if lighting is used
● Maintain proper distance from roads, sidewalks, and utilities
Your signage will be properly installed and remain in place for as long as you satisfy all regulations of the boards, agencies or any other authority with jurisdiction over the location, size and type of sign proposed to be constructed and installed.
5. Plan for Maintenance and Inspection
Your sign installation is the first step. There will be many occurrences of outdoor signage that will require maintenance in order to continue performing properly and safely.
Create a simple maintenance plan:
● Clean the surface to remove dust and dirt
● Check for loose bolts or damaged parts
● Inspect for fading, cracks, or rust
● Replace lighting components if needed
Routine inspection helps you fix small problems before they become costly repairs.
Conclusion
If you want your outdoor signage to be visible, safe, and durable, you must locate and install it properly, build the sign from quality materials, comply with the requirements of local laws and ordinances, and have an ongoing maintenance program to make sure your sign provides you with the continued benefits over the life of your sign.
If you have properly installed signage not only will you protect your investment, but you will ensure your signage communicates its intended message clearly and professionally to all that see your sign.