Signage is an essential part of any business’s branding and marketing strategy. It provides a visual representation of your company and directs customers to your storefront or website. However, just like any investment, signage requires proper maintenance to stay effective and functional. Here are some tips for keeping your signs looking fresh and functional:
Regular Cleaning
Over time, signs can accumulate dirt, grime, and other pollutants that can diminish their visibility and legibility. Performing regular cleaning can help to maintain their appearance. Start by assessing your signage to identify areas that require cleaning. You may need to use visual clues such as discoloration, smudge marks, and dirt buildup.
Use a mild cleaning solution with a soft cloth or brush to avoid damaging the signage’s surface. Avoid cleaning products with abrasive or acidic properties as they can corrode the material, leaving a dull, hazy spot. Instead, opt for gentle soap or detergent and add a few drops of vinegar or lemon juice to break up stubborn stains.
Check Lighting
Lighted signage can make a significant impact on your business’s visibility, especially in low lighting conditions or at night. To ensure the functionality of your lighting signage, perform regular inspections to check for burned-out bulbs or faulty wiring.
As you perform your inspections, take time to clean the light fixtures to remove dirt and debris that can diminish lighting effectiveness. When cleaning fluorescent lighting, use a cloth dampened with alcohol to remove the grime and dirt that can cause the bulbs to flicker. For LED lights, a simple cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap will do.
Regular Repainting
One of the most effective ways to maintain the appearance of your signage is through regular repainting. Repainting can help brighten a faded or discolored sign and restore its vibrancy. Regular repainting also helps to protect the sign from the effects of weathering and fading.
When repainting your sign, use a high-quality paint that’s specifically formulated for outdoor use. It’s important to use the right color paint to match your brand color, and when possible, avoid switching colors as it can create confusion. Don’t forget to paint the post or supporting frame to complete the finished product.
Invest in UV Coating
If your signage is facing a west or south direction, it may be vulnerable to sun damage. Sun rays can cause signs to fade or discolor, making them difficult for customers to read. Investing in a UV coating can help to protect your sign from the effects of sun damage and extend its lifespan.
UV coatings act as a barrier to the sun’s harmful rays, which can cause premature wear and tear on your sign. They also protect the surface from dirt buildup and other environmental stressors that can leave marks and stains on the material.
Call a Professional
Performing regular maintenance on your signage is vital to ensuring its longevity and functionality. However, if you’re unsure of how to go about maintaining your signs or lack the necessary tools, equipment, or experience, consider hiring a professional to help.
Calling a professional for maintenance ensures that your signs will be properly assessed and maintained. Professional sign service providers have experience working with different types of signage and material, making them knowledgeable about proper cleaning, repainting, and repair techniques.
Conclusion
The quality of your signage can determine the public perception of your brand, making it critical to ensure that they are well-maintained at all times. Regular cleaning, repainting, and lighting inspections are some of the essential steps to ensure that signs look fresh and remain functional. Investing in a UV coating, and calling professionals when needed also helps in extending the lifespan of the signage. By following these simple tips, you can prolong your signage’s lifespan, enhance your brand’s image, and attract more customers to your business.
