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Your storefront sign is one of the first things your potential customers see when they visit your store, so it’s crucial to choose a style and design that reflects your brand, quality, and the kind of services you offer. But with so many different kinds of signs and options, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your business! The good news is that depending on your goal, business, and a couple of other factors, you can narrow down your choices. Consulting with a professional is the best way to get the perfect sign for your needs, but knowing your choices will give you an idea of all the possibilities you can take advantage of. Here are 9 common sign types and how they are typically used.
1.Fabric Storefront Sign
Fabric signs can be as simple as a banner for food kiosks or built-in into framed lightboxes for larger retail stores. The lightbox makes it easy for customers to see your sign at night. They give you a zero glare graphic surface while delivering a saturated color image.
Cost: No metal parts or high-technology plastics equals savings. However, keep in mind that they require more upkeep and replacement compared to other sign types. Definitely expect to pay more for heavy-duty, fade-resistant fabric and for hardware and installation.
Frequently Used: Fabric signs are an extremely popular option because of their versatility, so any type of business can use them. They are ideal for a small business with a low budget or in need of mobility.
2. Wood Storefront Signs
Hand painted carved Cedar by Larry Perez Signs & Graphix (12/31/17)
There are several wood types that are used for signage. Wood signs are simple, yet elegant. Unlike two-dimensional signs that feature only height and width, wood signs have a depth element. 3D signs are naturally eye-catching and aesthetically appealing.
Cost: Size, font, type of paint, finish, and wood type will all impact cost. Plywood will be the most affordable with premium wood types like oak and cherry being more expensive. Weather proofing these signs can also add to the cost, but is necessary to prevent the frequent replacement (and cost) of the sign.
Frequently Used: Painted wood signs are ideal for stores wanting an old-fashioned feel. It can also work for upscale retailers going for a rustic theme. They are common in public areas, like park entrances, hiking trails and boat ramps for a rustic look. Bars, clothing retailers, eateries, sporting goods stores and others seeking to accent their interior décor with an outdoor, nautical or western theme also rely on these signs.
3. Etched / Painted Glass Storefront Sign
Etched glass for the Williamson County Police Department by Larry Perez Signs & Graphix. (9/28/17)
Etched and painted glass is an attractive yet unique option. Etched glass is simple, elegant, and sophisticated. It works best if the inside of the building is darker in color to give it some contrast. Painted glass allows you to showcase your logo as is. Both options will differentiate your business from surrounding storefronts.
Cost: Cost will depend on design, complexity, and materials.
Frequently Used: We often see painted glass on restaurants or cafès. Etched glass can often be seen across corporate offices, public service buildings and more. Keep in mind the placement of the window, as the sun’s glare could diminish the visibility of the design from a distance.
We’ve worked with many local schools, police departments, and businesses! Click here to check out our work.
4. Punched Metal Signboard/Laser Cut Storefront Sign
Also called laser cut signs, they are durable and weather-resistant signs that can offer a wide array of styles, depending on the design. They can be designed to look clean and modern or to bring a historic feel.
Cost: Larger sizes or the addition of color and texture add to the price.
Frequently Used: Depending on the design, punched metal signboards can be used by businesses that want a sleek, modern sign or a retro storefront display. Since they are often backlit, they are a great choice if your business is open at night.
5. Metal Logo and Lettering Storefront Sign
These three-dimensional storefront signs, and any shadows they throw off, add texture and interest. These are very common and can be seen across a wide range of businesses.
Cost: Price will depend on the size of the letters and the type of metal used. If you operate at night, it would be a good idea to get the letters lit for increased visibility, which will also add to the cost.
Frequently Used: Restaurants and retailers who expect high foot traffic later in the day may benefit from this type of business sign.
6. Metal Storefront Sign Board
Metal signs are eye-catching and professional, plus they tend to weather well. These are also extremely durable; they will hold up well throughout the years!
Cost: The cost of these signs will correlate with the amount of custom labor involved. The more complex the design, the pricier the project.
Frequently Used: Because of their durability, these signs work well in a variety of locations. They’re also great for differentiating from other retailers.
7. Awning Storefront Signs
These offer the option of providing shade for your business, shelter for your customers in bad weather, and attractive signage. Awnings can save you anywhere from 25%-50% in energy bills. They are also built to sustain bad weather, making them a great long-term choice. Because of their design, you can also put your business name on the front and sides of the awning, increasing visibility.
Cost: Depends on the size and fabric of the awning, as well as the hardware needed to hang it.
Frequently Used: Depending on the design, awning signs can be used by restaurants and cafes to give their store a nostalgic feel or retailers looking to have a distinctive storefront.
8. Rock Storefront Signs
Stone and other rock materials serve as excellent choices for signs. They handle weather conditions well over long periods of time. These signs are heavy, permanent, and provide a sleek look for businesses. A drawback to rock signs is that they are permanent, and can be costly to relocate if you decide to move your shop.
Cost: Stone signs vary widely in price depending on size and material. Stone alternatives like composites can be a more budget-friendly option.
Frequently Used: Since rock signs occupy a lot of space, they are ideal for big businesses with real estate to spare, like hotels or large retailers.
9. Glass Tube Light Storefront Sign
Also called neon or LED signs, the visual appeal of this type of sign is second to none. If your business operates at night, these signs could bring you increased visibility for quite a distance.
Cost: Custom tube signs can cost thousands of dollars depending on the size and design complexity. Upkeep can be expensive so keep this in mind before purchasing. These lights are made of glass and can be easily damaged by bad weather and will be expensive to repair.
Frequently Used: Businesses that operate well into the night, such as bars or clubs, will benefit from glass tube light signs.
These 9 sign types are just the most common – each has different modifications you can make to personalize it to your business’s purpose and audience! We would love to help you choose the perfect sign for your business. Click here to request a free consultation! First-time clients get 10% off their first project!
