Pylon and monument signs might seem similar, but the key difference is their height. Monument signs are shorter and sit closer to ground level, while pylon signs are much taller and designed to be seen from a distance.
So, which one is better for your business? What are the cost ranges for each, and what are the pros and cons you should consider? In this blog, we’ll break it all down to help you make the right choice.
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ToggleMonument Sign vs. Pylon Sign: What’s the Difference?
The main difference between a monument sign and a pylon sign is their height, visibility, and appearance:
- Height: Monument signs are 4 to 10 feet tall and close to the ground. Pylon signs are 12 to 20+ feet tall and designed to be seen from farther away.
- Visibility: Pylon signs are great for highways and busy roads where drivers need to see businesses from a distance. Monument signs are better for entrances or areas with slower, local traffic.
- Appearance: Monument signs are often made with materials like brick, stone, or wood to blend with landscaping. Pylon signs are simpler, using poles and large sign cabinets for maximum visibility.
Pros and Cons of Monument and Pylon Signs
Monument Signs
- Pros:
- Looks professional and welcoming.
- Durable, made with brick, stone, or wood.
- It can be customized to match your business landscaping.
- Cons:
- Limited height makes them less effective for highway traffic.
- Higher installation costs due to premium materials like stone or metal.
Pylon Signs
- Pros:
- Better visibility for drivers and motorists on highways.
- Support versatile designs, like LED displays and custom lettering.
- Can be shared for business in multi-tenant locations.
- Cons:
- Higher maintenance cost due to exposure to wind and weather.
- You must adhere to local regulations for this tall sign.
If you are in Nashville, TN, we have a full guide on local Nashville signage regulation summaries. Read here: Navigating Sign Permitting in Nashville
Which Type of Sign Provides Better Visibility?
Pylon signs are perfect for businesses near highways, busy roads, or shopping centers.
Why? Drivers on highways have about 5 seconds to notice a sign, process the info, and decide whether to turn or stop.
Pylon signs are tall. Their height lets drivers spot them from far away. This gives people more time to react and more time to make a decision.
That’s why they’re great for gas stations, fast-food spots, or retail stores along major roads. Monument signs are better for areas with slower traffic. Like office buildings, real estate offices, or local shops.
They’re lower to the ground, and easier to catch when drivers aren’t rushing by. They’re also ideal for foot traffic or places with less hustle.
So, in short:
Pylon signs = Fast-moving traffic.
Monument signs = Slower, local traffic.
Pricing: Monument Signs vs. Pylon Signs
- Monument Signs: Pricing typically ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on size, materials, and customization.
- Pylon Signs: These are usually more expensive, with prices starting at $10,000 and reaching upwards of $20,000 due to their height and additional lighting features.
We have a blog detailing the cost for each monument sign and pylon sign. Read here: Business Sign Costs in Nashville, TN | MetroCenter Signworks
Best Use Scenario For Pylon And Monument Sign
Pylon Signs
- Highway businesses
- Shopping centers with multiple tenants
- Gas stations
- Fast food restaurants
Monument Signs
- Office parks
- Retail stores
- Community spaces (parks or schools)
How to Choose the Right Sign for Your Business
Deciding between pylon and monument signs comes down to three things: Your location, branding goals, and what you need the sign to do.
A sign expert can guide you through key details like height, traffic flow, and local zoning rules.
Ask yourself:
- Is your business near a busy road?
- Do you need people to see your sign from far away?
- What style of sign fits your brand image?
At MetroCenter Signworks, we take all the work out of the process. As Nashville’s top signage company, we’ll make sure your sign looks amazing, follows all regulations, and drives results for your business.
Contact us today for a free quote and let’s make your sign together!
Key Takeaways
- Monument signs are ideal for ground-level signage needs, offering a professional and durable option for local traffic.
- Pylon signs provide unparalleled visibility, making them a good choice for your business along highways or busy roads.
- Both types of signs offer customization to suit your branding, but costs vary based on materials and design.
- Work with a sign company to ensure your sign meets your goals and delivers outstanding customer service.
FAQs
Q. What is the difference between a pylon sign and a monument sign?
A. Pylon signs are tall and designed to be seen from a distance, making them ideal for highways and busy roads. Monument signs are lower to the ground, offering a more professional and aesthetic look, perfect for slower traffic areas like office parks or local shops.
Q. What is a monument sign?
A. A monument sign is a ground-level sign, usually made with sturdy materials like stone, brick, or metal. It’s designed to create a professional and polished image for businesses in areas with slower traffic or high foot traffic.
Q. What is a pylon sign?
A. A pylon sign is a tall, freestanding sign built to grab attention from far away. It’s perfect for businesses along highways, busy roads, or shopping centers where visibility from a distance is key.
Q. How much does a pylon sign cost?
A. The cost of a pylon sign varies based on size, materials, and design complexity. On average, prices can range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more. For an exact quote, contact MetroCenter Signworks—we’ll work with your budget to create the perfect sign for your business.