3 minute read
Considerations When Sourcing Outdoor Signage
Durability and ease of maintenance play critical role in protecting your investment
By Stephnie Coufal, iZone Imaging
Choosing quality, durable outdoor signage that is easy to order and maintain can be a challenge. You have to research your options, compare costs, understand the materials, guarantee the printing method can maintain the integrity of your design…the list goes on. Before you purchase your next outdoor signs, consider these five tips to ensure you don’t face the same old headaches after you get your new signage installed.
Weather patterns can be brutal, so whether your signs will be used at a community park, along a trail system, or part of a nature center or themed environment, they should be able to endure inclement weather and high visitor traffic. Signs can be made of a large variety of materials and substrates. Each one has it’s own strengths and weaknesses. Aluminum Aluminum is a durable substrate commonly used for outdoor signs like parking and directional signage. Aluminum substrate can come unpainted, or painted on one or both sides. It most commonly comes painted white, but can be painted in a variety of colors. Printing of complex graphics and photos on aluminum can be restrictive and the signs can begin to fade over a couple of years. Vinyl Vinyl signs and banners are an excellent short-term solution for event banners and light poles. Some vinyl is made specifically with the outdoors in mind, meaning they use ink that is resistant to UV rays. Vinyl is also an excellent solution for yard signs. Wood Wood signs can be classy and create a rustic look. They can be engraved and painted for smaller directional signs. A downfall of wood signage is long-term maintenance expenses as wood needs to be treated or replaced often due to everyday wear-and-tear and damage from weather. Wood is also susceptible to insect infestation.
Custom High Pressure Laminate (CHPL) CHPL is an excellent solution for outdoor signage. It is exceptionally versatile, impervious to moisture, and is fade, scratch, and graffiti-resistant. Graphic reproduction on CHPL signage is second to none. While it may cost a bit more to produce, the long-term benefits pay for itself many times over.
Tip #2: Weigh durability vs cost (cheaper isn’t always better).
Outdoor signs can get pricey, which is why it’s important you use a material that’s durable and won’t have to be replaced every couple of years due to fading, cracking, or harsh weather. Investing in a durable material saves you money in the long run. Be sure to ask your signage manufacturer if your investment comes with a long-term, reliable warranty.
Tip #3: Make certain the material is easy to clean.
When people love your space, your signage will naturally get dirty due to the rigors of public interaction – not to mention the adverse effects of inclement weather, pollution, and critter waste. Make sure your signage can be easily cleaned with just soap and water. Also inquire about the worst-case scenario, graffiti (paint, permanent marker, decals, etc.). These should be able to be safely removed using organic solvents.
Tip #4: Maintain the integrity of your brand and message.
Outdoor signs should reflect your organization’s brand and message for multiple reasons. Whether you’re designing warning and regulatory signs, path and trail markers, or interpretive signage, you must provide your visitors with clear and consise safety and direction.
