This is why choosing a strong signage partner vs. a local sign shop is so important.
Don’t let a sign purchase create a maintenance problem or code violation that will cause you countless headaches down the road. Follow these simple best practices and make the smartest multi-family signage purchase possible for your property.
7 Foolproof Tips for Spending Your Sign Package Budget
Don’t be fooled over signage. Learn the ins and outs of buying signs for your property so your branding perfectly reflects your property.
1. Master Your Sign Cost & Materials
Signs come in all manner of styles. To get the best sign cost for the job, you have to know your materials.
Aluminum, PVC, and Signfoam are great, but to get the best results from your sign investment, there are different applications for each.
- PVC can be used outside, but large sheets of it may warp. Thus, using it for a large sign on your property is not advisable. Make sure all materials and thicknesses are listed on your bids so you’re 100% certain about what you’re buying.
- Vinyl should always have a UV coating on it – without it, your signs can look cracked or burnt.
- Painted signs should always be made with a quality paint brand that includes UV protection for exteriors, like Sherwin Williams. This crucial feature will prevent fading on your signs.
When in doubt about how materials will hold up or their quality, ask your sign vendor for advice and for their warranty policy.
2. Get Up to Code for Results from Your Sign Investment
Every city has codes and regulations governing where and how you can display signs in various zones.
You can call your local municipal office for code allowances on your property for entry signage.
Ask about address numbers for buildings and unit number size requirements for fire department compliance and safety. Getting this information in advance will save you from having to take down or reinstall signs because they aren’t up to code.
3. Clean Up Over-Signed Common Areas
Over the years, as you updated your property, it may have collected several notice signs in various common areas. Instead of confusing prospects and residents with multiple signs, combine these into one or two larger signs that match your brand.
4. Go Big or Go Home
Removing signage like building numbers or unit numbers typically damages the paint. If you don’t order larger replacement signs, people will be able to see this unsightly damage. Though the sign cost may be slightly higher, ther reduction in possible repair and repainting costs should provide a better return on investment.
Always order building numbers and unit numbers slightly larger than your existing signs to circumvent this problem and keep your property looking sharp, and reduce the amount of touch-up paint work needing to be done by your maintenance staff.
5. Get the Right Sign Order
Nothing kills your return on a signage investment faster than violating local zoning code. Make sure to take note of any upcoming renovations on your property before you order signage. This may include the addition of new amenities, common areas, or removal of certain amenities. This way, you won’t order any extra signage you’ll just have to remove later.
To get your order right the first time, have a professional sign company, (like Oakhurst!), survey your property and do a code check for you. They’ll tell you exactly what you need.
6. Install Your Signs Correctly the First Time
A great sign is only as good as the quality of its installation. A poorly-installed sign will get destroyed, vandalized, or weather-beaten before you even have a chance to admire it. Overall
Here are some basic tips for the best installation:
- Use only rust-proof screws
- Include screw caps to prevent easy removal
- For the sleekest look, use L-brackets for post mounted signs
- Make sure to use concrete to set your post signs so they’re stable for the long haul
Making the effort to do the right installation will save you years of frustration and maintenance headaches. Do it right the first time and get better results from your sign investment.
7. Make Your Return on Your Sign Investment Last (and Last, and Last)
To make sure you get your bang for your buck, understand your vendor’s warranty policy – if they’re good at what they do, they’ll be happy to talk to you about it. This will help you in a pinch if your signs are ever damaged, or if there’s a problem.
Finally, get a copy of the type of paints your vendor used on your signage. In the event of vandalism, having a touchup kit handy is always helpful and will keep your lifetime sign cost lower.
Signage Budgeting and Buying Are Easy with the Right Know-How
It’s easy to buy the wrong signage for your property. Make sure you get the right sign cost, your money’s worth, and the professional, beautiful signs you need with the above tips.
For a sign package that’s sure to fit your budget and your signage needs, call Oakhurst Signs today! 727-532-8255
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