If you are buying a sign for your business or organization for the first time, you might be wondering where to start. It can be confusing as to which sign would be best for your particular needs. A good place to start is identifying the purpose of your sign and how you conceptualize the best way to display that purpose. If you are still confused, you might want to start by consulting with a reputable sign company that can help walk you through the process.
In this article, we answer the top five questions that first time sign buyers often ask us. We hope this helps you through the beginning stages of the sign buying process. Keep in mind that you don’t have to do it on your own. Contact a sign company you trust to help you tackle the first time sign buying process.
5 Top Questions for First Time Sign Buyers
1) What type of sign do I need?
This depends on what the purpose of your sign will be and any specific requirements by zoning laws and local sign codes. There are a wide variety of choices such as outdoor signs, indoor signs, directional signs, promotional signs, and safety signs. You will need to consider the location and type of visibility you will need for your sign to be effective. Durability and the message you want to convey are also factors when determining your sign needs.
There is a lot of sign choices and combinations you can choose from; Pylon signs, monument, digital message boards, post and panel signs, carved signs, channel letter signs and architectural signs. The choice will hinge upon your particular taste, needs and budget.
2) What type of materials should I consider for my sign?
This will depend on your desired life span, the signs location and your budget. Common sign materials include stone, wood, metal, plastic, vinyl, acrylic, and glass. Each material choice has its own advantages and disadvantages when it comes durability, weather resistance, cost, and aesthetics. Ultimately the overall look you want to achieve, the signs placement and needs to be factored in when selecting your sign materials.
If you are looking to make a big impression, a monument sign with a combination of digital message board and logo placement would be an optimal choice. That is if your budget would allow such a choice, you have the space and can procure the proper permits.
Otherwise, channel letter signs that are a good choice for attracting attention and they can be customized to match your brand and messaging. In addition, channel letters can be illuminated for visibility 24/7.
3) What type of design should I choose for my sign?
When designing your sign, it’s important to consider readability, visual appeal, and the message you want to convey. It is best to consult with a professional sign company that has the experience and ability to determine your particular needs. They will be able to suggest the types of contrasting colors and fonts that are legible from a distance.
Be sure to share with the sign designer what important information you want to convey. Items such as your business name, logo, contact details, and any necessary call-to-action. This will help determine the type of sign and material you select, as well.
4) Where should I place my sign?
Placement of your sign should be determined by what location will maximize its effectiveness. Things such as visibility, foot traffic, and local regulation should be considered when determining the best location.
Outdoor signs should be positioned where they can be easily seen by passersby, such as near the entrance of your business or along busy streets. Indoor signs should be strategically placed to guide customers, promote specific products or services, or convey important information.
5) How do I choose a sign company?
Below are some things you should consider when selecting a sign company for your first sign purchase:
Sign Company’s Reputation: Look for online reviews and talk with their prior clients to ensure that they are reputable and responsive to client’s needs.
Sign Portfolio: Be sure to look at their portfolio of past signs and the locations that they typically serve. It is advisable to use a local sign company that has built relationships with local municipalities and has the skill to procure the proper permits and is familiar with zoning and code requirements.
Experience and Expertise: Look for a company with a proven track record and experience in designing and producing signs. If you can, check out the area to see where their signs are placed and what condition and effectiveness these signs have.
Services Offered: It is important to choose a company that provides full-service and can handle every part of a sign project—from beginning to end— including consultation, permitting, fabrication, installation and maintenance.
Pricing and Timelines: Request quotes from multiple companies to compare pricing and delivery timelines.
Customer Service: Choose a company that has a reputation of being responsive, communicating clearly, and providing excellent customer service.
If you take the time to weigh these key questions and doing thorough vetting of your sign company, you’ll be better equipped to make the right decision when buying your first sign.
Are you interested in learning about what HES Sign has to offer first time sign buyers?
If you are in the beginning or in the middle of deciding what types of signs you need for your property, HES Sign can help walk you through the entire process. We can design, construct and install your all styles of property management signs.
Give us a call or click here for a free estimate for your next signage project. Our staff is at the ready to give you superior service.
We are Delaware and the Tristate area’s premier sign company. HES Sign’s mission is to provide customers with the highest quality and the greatest possible value on our signs and services.
