The purpose of signs is clear – to make a statement that's visible to others. Regardless, there’s more to it than that, as there are several methods of accomplishing this task. That's the reason building signs are just one vehicle for getting your message across. Now, there are many different options available for you when looking for the right wall graphics for your business.
You can find building signs everywhere. However, you might not have thought of them as "building signs." This is because every business on the block uses them these days. So let's take a closer look at signage and wall graphics for business. Prepare yourself – once you go down the rabbit hole of researching business signs, you'll see your city in a completely new light.
Business Signs Dimensions
It would be fantastic if everyone could dish out numbers and determine the exact length, depth, and width that a building sign needed to be. But of course, it depends to a certain degree on your own individual situation, as well as the appearance that you're trying to project.
With that being said, you'll want to start your dimension planning by looking into the applicable rules. For example, if your business is located in a suburban shopping center, research about any regulations or codes that apply to you.
Now, let's go over some basic guidelines to start with when determining your sign dimensions.
After that, if you still don't know what sign size you should have, you can contact a sign specialist. Midtown Signs has created countless different signs, so we likely would have some valuable input for you.
Choose a Sign That Fits the Space
Of course, you'll want to do the best job possible with the space available to you. If your space is more limited, don't overdo it. Rather, choose a sign that will be proportional to the quantity of space you have to work with. Also, stay away from signs that could look unbalanced (unless that's part of your branding style, however).
Different sign types and wall graphics for business have varying depths as well. For example, illuminated sign cabinets and/or channel letters will likely be deeper than banners or rigid sign panels made of aluminum. However, that does not mean that one is superior to the other. Think of it in terms of your own space; would something that matches your building's surface look more agreeable than a 3D model?
You'll also want to think about "keeping up with the Joneses." Or in this scenario, keeping up with the other local businesses. What if you start to walk around and see all the businesses in your strip mall use channel letters, all of which are the same size. Of course, you'd want to consider doing that as well. Regardless of whether it's required or not, this kind of uniformity could make the whole area look more cohesive.
Sizing Benchmarks to Go By
In our strip mall example, you already have a few sizing benchmarks to go by. Looking at what other businesses are doing and doing that as well can be the right choice. But, not everyone has that option as a benchmark to go by.
When choosing the size of your sign, consider this – one of the essential elements of wall graphics for business is getting seen by people. In particular, the people that need to see it at the right time.
Signs Need Visibility at the Right Time
Now think about the "who" for a second. Do pedestrians need to see your sign? Or are the drivers on the nearby road more essential to reach?
Or none of the above? Should your sign be seen by motorists going past at 65 mph on the nearby highway? It should go without saying but a sign must be big enough to reach your target audiences effectively from the location that they'll be seeing it.
Now, as to the question of "when," you'll think of darkness and light, which brings up the factor of illumination. If your sign is meant to be seen at night, then it will need some lighting somehow. On the other hand, if your target audience is going to be driving by your building during the day, then you'll need to consider that as well. For example, make sure that your sign can be seen from the driver's vantage point (while at the speed they're likely driving).
Now let's look at "when" from another perspective. Not every business sign will be made for one time frame only.
Your logo and business name will likely stay the same for a long time, but the same isn't always true for your building sign. For example, you might want to utilize banners for promoting weekend sales. You could also utilize window graphics for a 30-day campaign you're doing.
Building Sign Design Tips
Your sign is more than the materials it's composed of and where it's put. The design is a critical component of the entire setup. Your sign could be perfectly constructed but still, look terrible. And honestly, when it reaches that point, who is going to be impressed even if your sign can stand the test of time? If it looks bad, then it looks bad.
Of course, you'll need a sign that reflects your business in a positive light. Your sign should also send the right kind of message. Different types of signs could work better for sending specific messages. Therefore you'll want to spend some time identifying your unique message – what exact message are you trying to send with your sign?
Installing a Building Sign
When it comes to wall graphics for business, you probably don't want to install these on your own. Frequently, it requires a bucket truck, scaffolding, and ladders. Suppose this is the case for your business. In that case, you should definitely consider hiring professionals—no need to worry because there are companies that specialize in sign construction, like Midtown Signs. Manufacturing signs is a line of work done by professionals, and the same is also true for sign installation.