Starting a new business or rebranding can be tough, and choosing the right business sign is often a challenge. Without the right sign, potential customers might overlook your business, missing out on the chance to make that crucial first impression.
But don’t worry! In this blog, we’ll guide you step-by-step through choosing the perfect sign for your business. From understanding different types of signage, to how they can help boost your brand’s success, we’ve got you covered.
1. Why Your Business Needs the Right Sign
Picking the right sign for your business is more than just a marketing choice—it’s a big part of your brand. A good sign acts like a silent salesperson, giving people their first impression of your business. It’s important to make sure your sign matches your brand and clearly shares your message.
A well-placed, easy-to-read sign helps people notice your business and remember your brand. Whether you’re starting a new business or updating your current sign, it’s key to pick the right one that grabs attention and fits your needs.
2. Types of Business Signs: Which One Is Right for You?
There are various types of business signs available, each serving a different purpose and aesthetic. The type of sign you choose can have a big impact on how customers perceive your brand. Here are the 3 types of business signs:
- Monument sign
- Pylon sign
- Digital sign
Monument Sign
Monument signs are great for making a strong, professional statement. Built low to the ground with materials like stone, brick, or metal, they offer a durable and solid look that can enhance your brand’s credibility.
Their strength lies in their sturdy appearance and the sense of permanence they provide, making them perfect for businesses like schools, office parks, and shopping centers.
However, the main drawback is that monument signs can be less visible from a distance, especially in crowded areas or for fast-moving traffic.
They’re best used for businesses located in quieter areas where a close-up view of the sign is common, such as at the entrance to a corporate building or residential community.
Pylon Sign
Pylon signs are tall, freestanding, and designed to be seen from far away, making them ideal for businesses near highways or busy roads.
Their strength lies in their height and visibility, allowing them to catch the attention of drivers and passersby from a distance.
Pylon signs are best suited for locations like shopping centers or gas stations, where multiple businesses share a single sign structure.
However, their size and visibility can be a drawback in more residential or quieter areas, where they may seem out of place or too intrusive.
Additionally, pylon signs can be more expensive due to their large size and structure.
Overall, they’re great for businesses needing to attract customers from far away, especially in busy commercial zones.
Digital Sign
Digital signs offer unmatched flexibility, allowing businesses to update their content easily and frequently. This is their greatest strength—dynamic, eye-catching displays that can be changed in real time to show promotions, events, or announcements.
Digital signs are ideal for high-traffic areas where grabbing attention quickly is key, such as in retail stores, hotels, or airports.
However, digital signs can be costly to install and maintain, especially if exposed to weather outdoors.
Additionally, digital signs rely on power and might lose effectiveness if not maintained properly.
Despite this, they’re best used in settings where quick updates and constant engagement with the audience are essential, such as for fast-food restaurants displaying daily specials or cinemas showing movie schedules.
3. How to Choose the Perfect Sign for Your Small Business
Choosing the right sign for your small business doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these clear, simple steps to make sure you select a sign that works for your brand and attracts the right customers.
Step 1: Understand Your Brand
First, think about your brand identity. What message do you want your sign to send? Your sign should reflect your business’s values, personality, and style.
For example, a modern café might want a sleek, minimal design, while a family-owned shop might prefer something more welcoming and traditional.
Keep your colors, logo, and overall brand image in mind when making decisions.
Step 2: Identify the Best Type of Sign
Next, consider the type of sign that suits your business’s location and audience.
If you’re on a busy road, a tall pylon sign may be the best choice to catch the eye of passing drivers.
If your business is in a more residential area, a monument sign could offer a professional and grounded look.
Step 3: Check Local Regulations
Before you decide on a sign, make sure it complies with local regulations.
Many cities have rules about the size, height, and type of signs businesses can use.
It’s important to ensure your sign meets these rules to avoid fines or having to make costly changes later.
If you are in Nashville, TN, you can check this blog for the full guide to getting a sign permit in Nashville.
Step 4: Focus on Readability and Visibility
Your sign must be easy to read.
Choose a font size and style that stands out but is simple enough to be read from a distance. Avoid cluttering the sign with too much information—stick to the essentials like your business name and logo.
The goal is for potential customers to quickly understand who you are and what you offer.
Step 5: Choose Durable Materials
Pick materials that will last.
Depending on where your sign will be placed, it could face weather like rain, wind, or strong sunlight. Choose materials that can handle these conditions, such as metal, acrylic, or high-quality vinyl.
This will help your sign stay in good condition for years to come.
Step 6: Work with a Professional Sign Company
Finally, team up with a sign company that understands your needs.
They can guide you through the process, from design to installation, ensuring your sign looks great and works well for your location.
A professional sign company will help you choose the right materials, design elements, and placement to maximize the impact of your sign.
4. Design Elements to Consider When Choosing Business Signage
When it comes to designing your business sign, there are several important design elements to consider.
The lettering should be easy to read, especially from a distance, and the colors should align with your brand identity.
Additionally, the size of your sign should complement the size of the building it’s attached to, ensuring it doesn’t overwhelm the space.
Think about using materials like aluminum or acrylic for durability, especially for outdoor signage.
You’ll also want to make sure your sign complies with any local regulations regarding size and placement.
5. What to Look for in a Professional Sign Company
Choosing the right sign company is crucial in ensuring your sign is both high-quality and compliant with local laws.
Look for a full-service company that can manufacture and install your sign, as well as offer ongoing maintenance.
A good sign company should also work closely with you to understand your needs and budget, helping you find a sign solution that aligns with your branding needs.
Ask for samples of previous work to ensure their design aligns with your vision, and confirm that they handle all permits and local regulations so you don’t have to worry about compliance.
6. Local Regulations and Ensuring Compliance with Your Signage
Before installing your new sign, it’s essential to check local regulations. Different cities have different rules about signage height, size, and placement.
Your signage company should handle the permit process and ensure your sign meets all necessary regulations, but it’s still important for you to be aware of what’s required.
Ensuring your signage complies with local laws will help you avoid fines and ensure your business makes the best possible impression on your community.
Your One-Stop Solution for Custom Business Signs in Nashville
At MetroCenter Signworks, we make it easy for you to get the perfect sign for your Nashville business.
We handle everything for you: from designing and consulting on the best sign for your needs to manufacturing and installing it.
We also make sure your sign follows all Nashville regulations. This means you don’t have to worry about a thing.
With our help, you’ll get a high-quality sign that looks great, fits your brand, and stands out in your community. Contact us today and let us take care of all the details so you can focus on running your business.
Summary of Key Points:
- Pylon signs are ideal for businesses needing high visibility from a distance.
- The right business sign can act as a silent salesperson, boosting brand recognition and customer attraction.
- Different types of signs suit different business needs, from monument signs for permanence to digital signs for flexibility.
- For small businesses, a well-designed sign can make your brand image clear and help attract potential customers.
- The design elements of your sign—lettering, color, and materials—should align with your brand identity.
- Choose a professional sign company that offers full-service design, installation, and maintenance.
- Be aware of local regulations to ensure your sign is compliant.
By understanding these key elements, you can choose the perfect sign that not only fits your signage needs but also strengthens your brand identity.