A business’s first impression on passersby is often made through outdoor signage, as it grabs their attention and conveys a clear message of who they are and what they do. Outdoor signs also leave a lasting impression on customers and help them remember a brand, which can make or break a sales transaction. A memorable impression is important for building brand loyalty and attracting repeat customers, and it’s easier to do with signage that leaves an attractive and professional first impression.
Before working with a sign company, it’s helpful to define your communication goals so you can choose the type of sign that will best accomplish those goals. For example, if you want to deliver a bold branding message in a short amount of time, then billboards or big wall signs may be ideal options for your business. On the other hand, if you want to communicate more subdued messaging, then building or pole signs might be better choices for your business.
Choosing the right materials is another important step when designing your signage. For example, aluminum is a great choice for outdoor signs because it’s durable and resistant to corrosion from exposure to the elements. It’s also a very lightweight material, so it can be used for all kinds of signage, from large dimensional letters to smaller window clings.
Plastics are also a popular option for outdoor signage because of their durability and affordability. Chloroplast, or corrugated plastic substrate, is available in a variety of sizes and shapes for mounting on H-frames or other bases. Medium density overlay (MDO), or a plywood-like material, is a great choice for businesses that want the look of wood without the maintenance and expense. Its resin overlay surface is bonded to the wood, creating a weather-resistant sign that’s both eye-catching and resilient.
Other outdoor sign materials include acrylic, which is a common choice for 3D lettering and a common option for illuminated signs because it allows light to shine through the material. PVC is a popular alternative to acrylic because it’s affordable and durable, and it’s an excellent choice for curved signage. Dibond is a unique and sturdy option for signage, as manufacturers construct it with an aluminum core that’s sandwiched between two sheets of plastic polyethylene.
When designing your signage, it’s critical to make sure the text and graphics on the sign are legible and readable from the required distance. This is especially important for property or real estate signs, as well as for mounted signages that are installed in high-traffic areas. The International Sign Association has guidelines for minimum legibility distances, and it’s important to take these into consideration when positioning your signage. If you have trouble determining what’s necessary for your location, consider asking your sign vendor to assist. They can provide testing equipment that will allow you to test your signage from a specific distance.