Sign installation can seem like an intimidating process to the uninitiated, especially if you have never even hung wallpaper before!
Many people are unsure of where to start when it comes to hanging their sign and end up paying someone else to do it.
Which usually costs quite a bit more than simply investing in the tools and doing it yourself from the beginning.
As a sign installer myself, I’ve found that there are only two ways of performing sign installation.
The wrong way and the right way – so read on for everything you need to know about how to install your own signs!
Sign Safety and Fire Codes
Sign installation is a large part of business sign companies’ daily routines. The specific method of installation and general safety precautions differ depending on whether a sign is wall-mounted or freestanding, and whether it’s made from metal, wood, or plastic.
Common practice for most professional sign installers is to use screws through metal frame signs to secure them into place.
Signage that sits outside must be constructed in such a way that water cannot collect behind it, as doing so can cause rust and ultimately cause structural damage.
Check with your local fire department before installing any signage in case there are additional guidelines or regulations your need to adhere to.
Fire codes also dictate what material you can use for non-temporary signage – remember that cardboard isn’t an appropriate choice!
Sign Placement
One thing that no one ever tells you about sign installation is how important sign placement can be.
This is something that will change depending on what type of business you have and how many signs you want to hang up, but it’s important for your signage needs as a whole.
Your first step should be finding where you want to install signs, but after that comes picking out which signs are best for specific locations.
The answer can vary by location; what might work best in a mall may not work as well outside an office building, or in front of an apartment complex versus a house.
If your signage requires painting or other modifications, make sure they’re done correctly and are being installed by someone who knows what they’re doing.
Preparing For the Installation
Keep in mind that before a sign installer can begin work, you’ll need to have a permit for your business signs from your city or county and schedule an appointment with a professional sign company.
Some things take time, but don’t expect instant results; there are many factors at play. So just be patient and let everyone do their jobs properly.
If you notice that things are taking longer than they should, inquire about it and clear up any misunderstandings or miscommunications as soon as possible so you can keep moving forward.
A good rule of thumb is to plan on giving each phase of your sign project at least one business day.
Prepping Your Property for Sign Installation
Before you can expect your sign company to hang a sign, you have some homework of your own.
If it’s a wall-mounted outdoor sign, you need a flat and smooth surface in good repair with no rust or peeling paint.
Interior signs need an area big enough for lettering that won’t get in customers’ way, plus ample light (and outlets if it’s electric).
If your property isn’t up to snuff, hire someone who can fix whatever needs fixing—at least before they bring in their $50,000 lift and install signs on load-bearing walls. Then call your local permit office to see if sign installation is even allowed.
Post-Installation Checklist
When it comes time to hang your sign, don’t assume that you know everything there is to know about installation.
Every project is different and no two sign installers use exactly the same method, meaning something as seemingly straightforward as hanging a sign can easily go wrong.
To avoid problems down the road, make sure you have a solid understanding of what happens before, during and after installation.
There are six steps in total so keep reading for a quick rundown of each stage. It’s also helpful to ask questions and double-check details with your installer from start to finish (and afterward too). With these five tips, you’ll be an expert in no time!
Add Comment