This month Brady’s Liz Gallagher answers a question about signage: Our signage performance varies and I am rather reluctant to commit the expense needed for replacement without some background information. Am I unreasonable in expecting signs to stay put?
According to Liz Gallagher signage is an investment, so it is important that whichever signs you use are the right ones for the job. Top of the list must be matching the material to the application. A thin plastic sign won’t perform well in an outdoor car park that is open to the elements. And similarly, a thick aluminium indoor sign pointing to the nearest loo is probably overkill and too expensive.
It may sound obvious but different materials are equipped for different environments and applications. If you don’t select the proper material, you could end up having to frequently replace the sign or, at the other end of the scale discover you are ‘over-equipped’ and have spent more than is necessary – both avoidable scenarios. Take a look at our chart below and materials list on the right. It will help unlock the secrets of top quality signage.
• Fibreglass – Strong, rigid, and weather-resistant, fibreglass is one of the most durable materials for signs. It will not to chip, fade, rust, shatter or peel for up to 25 years. This material also has excellent chemical and abrasion resistance.
• Aluminum – Aluminum signs suit both indoor and outdoor use. Offering excellent chemical resistance and abrasion resistance, aluminum signs can withstand tough weather conditions such as wind, rain, sunlight and high temperatures (up to 100°F) for up to eight years. This material is commonly used for parking signs, building signs and informational signs.
• Plastic – Plastic is a cost-effective, lightweight and durable material for safety signs. Plastic signs conform to well-curved surfaces and are well suited for most indoor directional, informational, departmental and safety sign applications including fire extinguisher locations.
• Self-sticking polyester and vinyl – Self-sticking signs are economical and can be used indoors and outdoors and are easy to mount. They offer an average outdoor durability of up to eight years and have a fair chemical and abrasion resistance.
