A sign an extremely important part of your business’ exteriors. It is the first thing that people see when they approach your establishment, hence, it plays a big role in customers’ first impressions.
Customers form assumptions based on the quality and attractiveness of your sign. Consequently, these assumptions affect how customers perceive the quality of your business’ products and services. With that in mind, it’s easy to see why creating the perfect sign is imperative to the success of your business, particularly in establishing a good brand reputation.
Creating the best sign for your business has a lot more to do than the design itself. It is also important to find the right type of material, which is why we made this list to help you choose the right one:
1. Metal signs
Metal is one of the strongest materials out there, making it a great option for outdoor signs. It is weather-proof, durable, and exudes a classic or industrial vibe. Custom metal fabrication services make it possible to bring your design to life, regardless of complexity.
Aluminum is a common choice for metal signs since it is resistant to rust and comes in a wide range of colors and sizes. If you don’t like aluminum, you can consider other options such as plate steel, aluminum composite material (ACM), or stainless steel.
2. Acrylic signs
Acrylic is a type of thermoplastic that is shatter-resistant and lightweight. It’s the common choice of material for businesses that want to make their signs look sleek and sophisticated, which is easily achieved with illuminated backing. More than that, acrylic is highly durable and is available in a variety of colors, making it a very versatile material for different types of signage.
3. Fabric signs
Fabric signs are widely used by businesses with awnings on their exteriors. It is a cost-effective material and can be used to print almost any design. It’s also washable, making it easy for businesses to keep their sign looking good as new at a minimal cost. Another advantage is that the fabric is lightweight, meaning the sign can be easily transported or stored if needed, especially when a natural disaster is expected to pass through.
4. Neon signs
Having a neon sign on your storefront is an excellent way to attract customers both day and night. It’s a great choice for businesses that are open late into the night or for 24 hours, especially bars, coffee shops, clubs, and convenience stores.
5. Dura-wood
Wooden signs give a business a classy look, making the establishment seem more established and even older than it really is. It is also a great way to make your business feel more welcoming and more in tune with nature, as in the case of coffee shops, resorts, and spas.
Dura-wood is a durable type of wood material that can resist harsh elements more than untreated wood. It can be lasered, painted, or hand-carved to make into a wooden sign fit for a business.
6. Dibond
Dibond signs have plastic cores with aluminum surfaces. The strength of this type of material makes it an excellent choice for outdoor signs, especially in areas that experience extreme weather conditions. It is also a good option for complicated designs since it can be cut into almost any shape, size, and dimensions.
7. Vinyl
Vinyl is a relatively inexpensive type of material that is highly portable and versatile. However, it cannot last as long as other types of material, which means that it’s not a good choice for a permanent outdoor sign for your business. It is best used for temporary signs, such as in promotions, special events, and other short-term campaigns that your business might hold. And since it is lightweight, you can easily transport and store vinyl signs when they have served their purpose.
8. High-density urethane foam (HDU)
High-density urethane foam signs mimic the appearance of carved wooden signs and come in different textures like wood-grain, pebbled, and smooth. But unlike real wood, HDU signs are 100% waterproof (making them more durable), affordable, and free from imperfections that real wood might have. This type of material can last for ten or more years, so if you’re looking for a sign that can live as long as your business, HDU is the best material to choose.
Your business’ sign is perhaps the most important part of your storefront. Hence, it only makes sense to spend more than enough time choosing the best type of material for your sign. When planning your sign’s design, use this guide to find the perfect material that will work best for what you have in mind.
