Are you struggling to choose the right size for your signs? It might seem like a minor detail, but selecting the wrong signage size can make your signage ineffective, whether it’s too small to be noticed or too large to fit your space. This can lead to wasted resources and missed opportunities to communicate your message effectively.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of sign sizing, helping you make informed decisions that will enhance the effectiveness of your signage, whether for business, events, or personal use.
What Are the Standard Sizes for Signs?
For outdoor signs like yard signs, common sizes are 18″ x 24″ and 24″ x 36″. These sizes are large enough to be seen by passersby while still being manageable for easy installation. For indoor signage, 12″ x 18″ and 24″ x 36″ are popular choices because they offer good visibility without overwhelming the space. Sized banners, another popular signage option, typically come in standard vinyl banner sizes like 2′ x 6′ and 3′ x 8′, which are suitable for both indoor and outdoor events.
How to Choose the Right Sign Size?
Picking the right sign size doesn’t have to be complicated. It comes down to a few key things: where your sign will be, how far away people will be when they see it, and what material you’ll use.
What to Think About When Choosing Sign Sizes
First, consider visibility. If your sign is for a storefront, it needs to be big enough for people to see from the street. But if it’s for a trade show, a smaller size might be better to fit within a booth display. Also, think about where the sign will be—indoors or outdoors—and what type it is, like a yard sign, banner, or poster. Lastly, consider the sign’s purpose, whether it’s for directions, advertising, or promotion.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Sign
The material of your sign plays a crucial role in its durability, appearance, and cost. Different materials are better suited for different sizes and uses.
Vinyl for Large Format Signs
Vinyl banner material is a top pick for large-format signs like banners. Its flexibility and durability make it perfect for outdoor use, where it can handle all kinds of weather. Plus, vinyl signs are easy to print with vibrant colors, making them ideal for events, promotions, and displays that need to grab attention from afar. For example, 13 oz vinyl is a common weight used for durable banners, ensuring a sturdy and professional display.
Aluminum for Durable, Rigid Signs
Aluminum is a go-to material for permanent signs. It’s strong, weather-resistant, and has a sleek look, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Aluminum signs are often used for business signage and directional signs where durability is crucial. However, because of its weight and rigidity, aluminum is usually reserved for smaller-sized signs.
Corrugated Plastic for Yard Signs
Corrugated plastic is a favorite for yard signs. It’s lightweight, budget-friendly, and easy to set up, making it great for temporary signs like those used in political campaigns, real estate, or event promotions. Despite being light, corrugated plastic is tough enough to withstand outdoor conditions, making it a smart choice for short-term use.
How Does Sign Size Impact Visibility and Readability?
The size of your sign plays a major role in how visible and readable it is from a distance. Getting this right is essential for making sure your message effectively reaches your audience.
Font Size
When designing your sign, font size is key. Larger signs give you the space to use bigger fonts, which are easier to read from far away. A good rule of thumb is that every inch of letter height allows your text to be read from up to 10 feet away. So, if you need your sign to be readable from 100 feet, aim for at least a 10-inch tall font. You can also use an online design tool to experiment with font sizes and layouts to see what works best.
Placement and Size Considerations
Where you place your sign also affects the size you should choose. Signs that are placed high on a building or along a busy road need to be larger to stand out in their environment. On the other hand, indoor signs that are closer to the viewer can be smaller without losing readability. For example, retractable banners are great for indoor events where space is limited, and small banners can be used effectively for booths or displays. Signs that are measured in feet in height need to account for visibility from various distances. By understanding how placement, size, and visibility work together, you can create signs that are both effective and eye-catching.
What Are the Best Sizes for Different Types of Signs?
Different signs work best in different sizes. Here’s a guide to the ideal sizes for common types of signs.
Yard Signs
Yard signs are commonly used for political campaigns, real estate listings, and event promotions. The best sizes for yard signs are 18″ x 24″ and 24″ x 36″. These sizes are large enough to clearly convey your message while being easy to set up in a yard or along a roadside.
Banners
Banners are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes. Standard sizes include 2′ x 6′ and 3′ x 8′, though they can be customized to fit specific needs. Banners are perfect for events, promotions, and displays where you need high visibility. Their large size and portability make them a great choice for both indoor and outdoor use.
Posters
Posters are typically smaller than banners and are best suited for indoor use. Common sizes include 11″ x 17″ and 24″ x 36″. These sizes work well for retail displays, event promotions, and informational signage in public spaces. Posters are easy to produce in large quantities and are cost-effective, making them a great option for short-term advertising.
How Does the Type of Signage Affect the Ideal Size?
The ideal size of your sign depends on its type and purpose.
Directional Signage
Directional signs guide people through spaces. For indoor use, a 12″ x 18″ sign is typically sufficient. For outdoor use, larger signs may be necessary for better visibility.
Promotional Signage
Promotional signs need to be large enough to attract attention. Outdoors, sizes like 24″ x 36″ or 36″ x 48″ are common. Indoors, a smaller size might be more suitable depending on the space.
Storefront Signs
Storefront signs should be visible from the street and complement the building’s design. Sizes like 24″ x 36″ or 36″ x 48″ are popular, but they can vary based on the business’s needs.
What Are the Installation Considerations for Different Sign Sizes?
Installing signs requires careful planning, especially when it comes to larger sizes. The installation process can vary depending on the size and material of the sign.
Easy Installation for Yard Signs and Smaller Signage
Yard signs and smaller signs, like posters and directional signage, are generally straightforward to install. These signs often come with stakes or pre-drilled holes, allowing for quick setup. For example, a standard 18″ x 24″ yard sign can be easily installed with a stake and hammer. Lightweight materials, such as corrugated plastic, make these signs easy to move and adjust as needed.
Installing Larger Signs: What to Know
Larger signs, such as banners and storefront signs, require more effort to install. They may need to be mounted on walls, hung from ceilings, or secured on posts. You might need special tools or professional help for proper installation. For instance, a large 3′ x 8′ vinyl banner might require several people to install it securely and avoid sagging or damage, especially in windy conditions.
Proper Care and Storage for Signage
Proper care and storage are crucial for maintaining any sign’s appearance and longevity. Signs made from vinyl and aluminum are built to withstand outdoor elements but still need regular cleaning and damage checks. Store signs in a cool, dry place when not in use to extend their life, especially for reusable types like banners and yard signs.
Sign Services in Nashville by MetroCenter Signworks
At MetroCenter Signworks, we offer a complete sign services for your Nashville business. From consultation and design to manufacturing and installation, we handle every step of the process.
Whether you need yard signs, large banners, or storefront signs, our experienced team ensures your signs are expertly crafted and securely installed for maximum visibility.
Key Takeaways: Understanding Sign Sizes and Their Impact
- Standard Sign Sizes: Common sizes like 24″ x 36″ are versatile and widely used for a variety of signage types, offering a balance between visibility and ease of installation.
- Material Selection: The material of your sign should match its size and intended use. Vinyl is ideal for large outdoor banners, while aluminum works well for durable, long-lasting signs.
- Installation Considerations: Larger signs often require more complex installation processes, while smaller signs like yard signs are easier to install and reposition.
- Visibility and Readability: The size of your sign should ensure that it’s visible from the intended viewing distance. Larger signs with bigger fonts are easier to read from afar.
- Cost Implications: Larger signs generally come with higher costs, but choosing durable materials and standard sizes can help manage expenses.
By understanding the various factors that go into selecting the right sign size, you can make informed decisions that will help you achieve your signage goals effectively and efficiently. Whether you’re promoting an event, guiding visitors, or enhancing your storefront, choosing the right sign size is a critical part of making your message stand out.
FAQs
Q. What is the standard size of signage?
A. Standard signage sizes vary based on the type, but common sizes include 24″ x 36″ for posters, 18″ x 24″ for yard signs, and 2′ x 6′ for banners.
Q. What size do signs come in?
A. Signs come in a variety of sizes, typically ranging from small 12″ x 18″ indoor signs to large 36″ x 48″ outdoor signs. Custom sizes are also available depending on your needs.
Q. What are the sizes of sign posts?
A. Sign posts are usually 6 to 10 feet tall, with diameters ranging from 1.5″ to 4″, depending on the size and weight of the sign they support.
Q. What is the average size of a business sign?
A. The average size of a business sign ranges from 24″ x 36″ to 36″ x 48″, depending on the location and visibility requirements.
Q. How large should signs be?
A. Sign size should be determined by the viewing distance. As a rule, 1 inch of letter height allows visibility from 10 feet away. Larger signs are needed for greater distances.
Q. What is large format signage?
A. Large format signage refers to oversized signs, such as banners or billboards, typically over 48″ in width, designed for high visibility and impact.
Q. What is the size of a signage poster?
A. Signage posters commonly come in sizes like 18″ x 24″ and 24″ x 36″, suitable for both indoor and outdoor displays.
Q. What size are regulatory signs?
A. Regulatory signs, like stop signs, typically measure 24″ x 24″, while others vary from 18″ x 18″ to 30″ x 30″ depending on the specific regulation and location.