A commercial sign displays your business name, communicates your brand’s identity, and entices people to see what your establishment offers. A sign that’s beautiful, easy to read, and sturdy will set the tone for the customer experience.
There are many routes to take when designing a one-of-a-kind sign. That’s why it’s helpful to know about the considerations to make before installing a custom commercial sign. Thinking through these factors beforehand will lead to a more effective and impactful result.
Define Your Message
Begin the design process by clarifying the purpose of the sign. Are you trying to draw in foot traffic, announce a grand opening, or simply identify your location?
Your objective will influence the design. A sign intended to attract impulse buyers might use bright colors and bold text. On the other hand, a directional sign needs to be clear and easy to read from a distance.
Consider the message you want to convey. An effective sign is simple and direct. Avoid cluttering it with too much information. A business name and a logo are typically enough to make a strong impression. If you need to include more details, like a phone number or website, make sure they do not overwhelm the main design.
Reinforce Your Brand
A sign is the first interaction a potential customer has with your brand. It should immediately tell them who you are and what you stand for. A minimalist sign might suit a modern tech startup, while a rustic, hand-painted sign could be perfect for an artisanal bakery.
Consistency is key. Your sign should match the branding used on your website, social media, and other marketing materials to create a unified and memorable identity.
Focus on Design Elements
Think about your business’s personality. Is it fun and playful, or professional and serious? The style should align with your brand’s voice and values.
The materials, colors, and fonts you choose all contribute to the overall message. Carefully choose each element to support your brand and message.
Font Choices
Select an easy-to-read font that complements your brand’s personality. Avoid overly decorative or complicated fonts that are difficult to decipher, especially from a distance. Sans-serif fonts are a good choice for clarity and a modern look, while serif fonts can convey a traditional, established feel.
Color Palette
Colors evoke emotions and can attract attention. Use colors that are consistent with your brand palette. High-contrast color combinations, such as black on white or yellow on black, offer the best readability. Be mindful of how colors appear in indoor and outdoor lighting conditions.
Material Selection
The material of your sign affects its appearance, durability, and cost. Metal signs offer a contemporary look. Wood provides a warm, rustic feel. Other options like acrylic, PVC, and vinyl offer versatility for different designs and budgets. The material should be appropriate for your location and able to withstand local weather conditions.
Check Local Regulations
One of the most important steps is to research local zoning laws and permit requirements. Every city and municipality has different rules about the size, placement, and type of signs allowed. Ignoring these regulations could lead to fines or being forced to take down your new sign.
Contact your local planning or building department to get a clear understanding of the rules. Working with a professional sign company, like Sign-On, can simplify this process. We communicate with each of our clients to gain an understanding of their signage needs and local regulations. When the time comes for a custom sign installation, complying with the city’s rules will be a breeze.
Consider Your Permanence Needs
Think about how long the sign will be in use. Will it be a permanent fixture for your storefront, or is it for a seasonal promotion or special event? Your needs will determine the best materials and installation methods.
Permanent signs require durable, weather-resistant materials like aluminum, steel, or high-density urethane. They will stand up against snow, rain, and extreme temperatures without falling apart.
Temporary signs include banners, A-frames, and window decals. These short-term use options are cost-effective and easy to place and remove. These are great for advertising sales, events, or seasonal offerings.
Choose a Visible Location
The placement of your sign is just as important as its design. It needs to be visible to your target audience, whether they are pedestrians or drivers. Walk around your property and look at it from different angles. Identify the best sightlines and consider potential obstructions like trees, other signs, or buildings.
Think about the distance from which people will view the sign. This will affect the size of the sign and the legibility of the font. A sign meant to be seen from a busy road needs larger letters than one designed for foot traffic on a sidewalk.
Find Inspiration
Before you finalize your design, look at what other businesses in your area are doing. Notice which signs catch your eye and think about why they are effective. Also, look at businesses similar to yours in other locations for inspiration. This can give you ideas for what might work well for your own sign.
Designing and installing a commercial sign is a significant project. Hiring a professional company like Sign-On removes the guesswork and helps you achieve a high-quality result. Our team has the expertise to guide you through every step, from design and material selection to navigating local regulations and performing the installation.
Let Your Sign Speak for Your Business
An attractive and legible sign is a powerful asset for any business. A thoughtful approach to your brand identity, messaging, and design will result in a sign that attracts customers and becomes a landmark in your community.
Although there are many factors to consider before installing a custom commercial sign, Sign-On can simplify the process. If you are ready to create a sign that makes a lasting impression, the team at Sign-On is here to help. We specialize in designing and installing custom signs that last. Contact us today to start creating signs that will capture the essence of your brand!