Types of Business Signs: Guide to Making Your Business Stand Out

When it comes to getting your business noticed, the right signs can make all the difference.

• 36% of American consumers say they visit a new store because of the quality of their sign.
• 61% of American consumers failed to find a business because the sign was too small or unclear.
• 60% of businesses reported average sales increases of 10% or more by adding to or updating their signs.
  

A well-placed sign can grab attention and bring customers or visitors right to your door. And once they are in the door, effective signage can guide them, provide helpful information, and even help increase sales and customer satisfaction.

Let's break signs down into two main categories: Exterior Signs and Interior Signs.

Types of Exterior Signs

Hanging / Blade Signs

• What They Are: Signs affixed to a building that hang down or project out from a bracket.
• Why They're Effective: Provide good visibility and can fit on almost any location or building type.

Pylon / Monument Signs

• What They Are: Low-to-the-ground signs often made of brick, stone, or metal.
• Why They're Effective: Adds a touch of class and permanence to your business.

Channel Letters

• What They Are: Three-dimensional letters that can be lit with neon or LED lights.
• Why They're Effective: Easy to read from a distance, great for grabbing attention.

Banners

• What They Are: Signs made from fabric or vinyl that can be permanent or temporary.
• Why They're Effective: Good for sales, events, or announcements.

Window Decals

• What They Are: Vinyl decals or wraps that go directly on your windows.
• Why They're Effective: Use them to promote products, specials, or information like business hours.
  

Types of Interior Signs

Directional / Wayfinding Signs

• What They Are: Signs that point the way to different areas of your store, offices, or campus.
• Why They're Effective: Helps customers or visitors find what they need fast and easily.

Hanging Signs

• What They Are: Signs that hang from the ceiling to call attention to an area.
• Why They're Effective: Makes use of vertical space and easy to spot.

Menu Boards

• What They Are: Lists of services or products, usually above the counter.
• Why They're Effective: Lets customers know their options at a glance.

Vinyl Floor and Wall Graphics

• What They Are: Lists of services or products, usually above the counter.
• Why They're Effective: Lets customers know their options at a glance.

Point-of-Purchase Signs

• What They Are: Small signs near products or the register.
• Why They're Effective: Great for pushing last-minute deals or featured items.

What are the most effective signs for my business?

Picking the right signs can make a world of difference for your business.

The most effective and appropriate type of signs for your business will depend on a number of factors. Some key things to consider are:

• What are your business goals? Are you simply looking to get more traffic to your business? Are you trying to communicate the quality of your products or services? Maybe you want to recruit new staff members or employees. We start with your goals and then identify a strategy to help you achieve them.
• What type of signs align with your brand? A polished metal sign might look great for a modern tech company, and a historic bed and breakfast might prefer a carved wooden sign.
• What type of signs will be most visible? If your building façase is along a road, a projecting sign may be best as it's perpendicular to traffic and thus more visible. If you have space, a freestanding or pylon sign can really draw attention.
  
• What's your budget? There are ways to maximize your investment while providing a comprehensive sign system. Quality sign products can last 10 years or more, making signs one of the most cost-effective marketing investments you can make for your business.
• What are your local sign regulations or requirements? Every town has sign regulations that dictate how big your signs can be–typically based on factors like square footage and road frontage. Additionally, many towns have designated "historic districts" which further limit the material and style of the signs you can install.

Not sure where to start? Schedule a free sign consultation.