where do I buy a sign for my business?

How to select the perfect business sign company for you

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 1. understand what you are looking for in a business sign supplier

What is it you are looking for your signage to do? Do you think that you could undertake the project itself or would it be an advantage to ask the help of a professional?

Fitting a low-level flat sign for your business can be a simple job for most capable DIY’ers or your maintenance person. In this instance, it is possible to ask for your signs to be delivered to you for you to arrange fitting.

Conversely, if you are looking at fitting multiple signs or illuminated signs, which tend to be above standing level or multiple stories up. Or interior signage such as wall graphics, printed wallpaper or window vinyl. It would be beneficial to use a sign supplier who can also provide a fitting service.  These types of signs and graphics are more tricky to fit  for the inexperienced.

2. have a clear outline of the cost of business signs

It is good practice to ask for a full written quotation before you agree to any work to be undertaken. Make sure you are clear on what you are going to be getting for your money. Sign installation projects can become quite complex due to factors such as height access, the supply of services, hours of access and planning restrictions.

Your quotation should  breakdown all the elements of your project, along with who is responsible for paying for each item, for example when ordering an illuminated sign, check who is paying for the electrician to fit the supply feed. It is important to know the costs involved in the project and when they are due for payment.

If you are supplied with a quotation for your business signs, that is not broken down – ask for more detail or the costs of each Individual item.

3. buying business signs locally might not be the best fit

We all like to support local businesses, people you know and certainly recommendations do count. We recommend to check the business you choose suits you, just because you have a local sign company, it does not mean that they are the ideal partner for your signage project. Not one size fits all and it is important that the sign maker you choose, fits your need whether it is large or small.

If you are undertaking a reasonable sized sign project, it is usually beneficial to choose a medium to large sign company. They will be more willing to travel to you to undertake the work and they will be better suited to guide you through the process from start to finish. Smaller sign businesses or self-employed sign fitters, are in theory an obvious choice, but on larger sign projects they are going to struggle to offer the same level of service and flexibility as they don’t have the teams of designers, production technicians and fitters to support them.

Likewise, if you are looking for a one-off shop sign, pavement sign, PVC banners or  smaller sign orders – smaller sign businesses can be a suitable option for you.

4. check reviews for customer service and sign aftercare

Signs for your business can soon add up to be a considerable investment, and it is advisable to look at referrals for a sign supplier, to check they are the best option for your business.

We would also recommend that you check for reviews either on Google Reviews, TrustPilot or Facebook, as these can be a valuable insight to finding out more about their work and service.

Be aware that not all business sign suppliers have a user-friendly website or have social media accounts. If you cannot find a review online, ask them for the contact details of a couple of previous clients and make a couple of calls to ask for some assurance. Do your research, make a good choice and don’t be left disappointed.

5. understand any costs upfront for your business signs

One of the drivers for where to buy a sign for your business will be undoubtedly budget. Depending on the project, costs can become considerable. If you’re a new customer or if your undertaking a larger project, a deposit payment may be asked for upfront of any work commencing. In an ideal world, your sign quotation will have payment terms outlined and should be approved and agreed upon before work is undertaken.

If you’re not sure, ask your supplier if there are any upfront costs required, as this will reduce any delays to your project.

6. find out who is fitting your signs

It is logical to assume that as you are placing your trust in a person to supply and fit your signs, that they will be doing the job for you, this isn’t always the case. There are many “sign fitters” who aren’t quite as they seem. It is not uncommon for some of these agencies to purchase and outsource the services they offer externally.

If you are going to appoint the work for your business sign project to an agency, it’s a fair assumption that they will be using an external company to make and fit your signs. This can sometimes result in a lack of control, and higher costs from the agency compared to a dedicated sign company, depending on the subcontractor. It can also lead to a longer timeframe on your project due to the additional layer of communication required between all parties.

While agencies can create some beautiful looking signs and graphics, which will look fantastic when fitted, this usually comes at a premium. There is nothing wrong with using an agency for your sign project, just make sure you are aware upfront of who will be fitting your signs, so there are no surprises later down the line.

7. sign franchises might not be as they appear

It is easy to find large sign supply companies online. Many of these businesses have big marketing spend and will often appear at the top of search results by using paid ads. While these might appear as national businesses, a huge number of these are run as small franchises under a national “brand”. Depending on the management – the levels of quality, service, and cost on each of these can vary. The size of each franchise will also vary and many of these, are in fact still only small businesses and might not be as big as they appear online.

8. be cautious when buying signs from the internet

As mentioned earlier, if you are confident of fitting signs yourself, you can find online sign companies who have websites that you can order basic signs from. This might be a good option as it can be easy and done at any time that suits your schedule.

There are a few things worth pointing out at this point, when ordering online you will need often need to provide artwork for your sign. You will need design your sign, make sure you’re colours, resolution of images or logos and dimensions are correct. If you’ve not done this before, it can be a learning curve and not all online platforms will point out issues before printing. This can result in getting your sign delivered only to discover it’s not what you expected.

A good sign company will have a graphic designer or design department who will go over a brief with you and help design your sign for you. Or if you send over a design you’ve done that has any problems, they will help you around this. Unless you have graphic design experience, we would not recommend purchasing signs via an “upload your artwork” type website as any perceived savings in cost will soon be outweighed by additional artwork, reprint and delivery charges.

9. look for companies who do offer site surveys

When selecting your sign company, it is good practice to see if they will do a free site visit. This is beneficial for two reasons, firstly this will give you a chance to meet a representative from the sign company. Secondly you can chat through your requirements for your sign project in detail and at this point any measurements can be taken by the company who will design, make and fit the signs. This puts the responsibility of taking all the details on the sign company, so you can rest easy knowing you don’t have to worry about getting the measurements wrong, or asking for the wrong material.

They will also be able to point out any special requirements needed to fit your signs or graphics, wether they can be fitted from a ladder or if a cherry picker will be needed. This means when you get your quote, it will be accurate, saving you from extra costs down the line.

If you would like to find out more about Motive’s sign project management service, or talk in more detail about your signage project then please contact us.

You might be interested in?

> Types of commercial signs
> What type of sign do i need?
> Where do i buy a sign?

We appreciate that undertaking a signage project can be daunting – especially if you don’t have prior experience or simply lack the necessary time to add this into your workload.

In these instances, many clients choose the services of the Motive signage team to guide and support them throughout their project and learn from the experts on the job!

We’d encourage you to do the same if you find yourself in these circumstances.

To get the ultimate sign fitting project guide – read on!

1. understanding the purpose of the signage

What is your sign intended to convey to those that view it? What will be deemed as making the completed sign installation a success? Is there an existing sign that needs to be replaced? If so, is this due to a redesign or to replace old with new? Will it be a like for like replacement or are there new materials that could be utilised for a better outcome?

The design of your signs may be created by a third party such as a design agency or you may wish your sign supplier to provide the sign design on your behalf. If your sign supplier is to produce the design then ensure they are thoroughly briefed and equipped with branding guidelines, sketches, photographs or examples of similar projects that will help them to interpret your vision.

2. understand who the sign project stakeholders are

First and foremost, ensure it is crystal clear what your role is. Then establish which colleagues form part of your project team and their roles and responsibilities.

Do you know who needs to be part of the approval process and at what stages of your project?

Make sure you have identified who will facilitate the on-site fitting of the sign by your chosen sign suppliers.

Document this and circulate to those involved.

3. know the expected project timeframes

4. know your budget

You may be allocated a budget and even given detailed specifications for your sign(s) but might not be able to ascertain whether or not this is realistic until after the site survey and consultation with your chosen supplier. By providing as much information as possible to your sign supplier (see our briefing guide for help) they will be able to give you the best solutions to your signage requirements at the best possible price.

Your supplier can also make recommendations on varying materials or manufacturing processes in order to provide different cost-effective alternatives.

A rough estimate can be provided in the first instance to help manage expectations of your project costs.

5. undertake a thorough site survey

Once your chosen supplier has been instructed to provide a detailed quotation, they need to fully understand the scope of the project so will usually request to attend the site(s) to assess the exact requirements of the job.

The site audit will take into consideration sign location(s), the surrounding areas, buildings, substrate conditions, accessibility, power supply and vehicle access. Exact measurements will be taken and plenty more images will be taken.

6. know the legal implications

Do you need planning permission from your local authority for your sign to be erected? Or do you require consent from a landlord to install the sign on rented premises or your trading estate? It is crucial that you know this right at the beginning of your project as you may need to wait some time for approval. Ignore this at your peril.

Fitting roadside signs can be a headache, along with illuminated signs in either a residential area or a culturally or environmentally sensitive area.

7. select the best type of sign for the job

8. ensure your sign design works with the surroundings

Not all signs work in every surrounding, while having a good design helps, it also is essential to make sure the design of your sign works aesthetically within its surroundings. If you have a rustic log cabin, then sticking a high tech looking sign on it won’t fit with its style. A good sign company will send you a superimposed visual that will, as much as possible, demonstrate how the final sign design will look once it’s installed – allowing you to get an idea of how it will look. This is a valuable document as it is the final step in the approval process and allows for any final tweaks, prior to manufacturing the sign.

9. choose your sign supplier wisely

10. ensure you communicate

How often should each of the stakeholders be informed? Ensure all involved are kept abreast of the project updates. Poor communication can result in misunderstandings which can cost time and money and, at the worst outcome – a rework of the job!

Adhering to the key elements of our sign fitting project guide will help to keep you on track.

If you would like to find out more about the Motive sign project management service, or talk in more detail about your signage project then please contact us.

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You might be interested in?

> Ideas for signage
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acrylic sign

An acrylic plaque can be used for interior or exterior placements and can replace glass signs due to its transparent aesthetic and safety and durability. An exceptionally versatile product, it can be reverse printed or cut to enhance your sign design.

aluminium sign

Aluminium signs are the types of commercial signs that can be manufactured with different finishes to create very different textures, and are also available with many different colours and finishes. An aluminium sign provides a lightweight yet very durable, cost effective and high-quality exterior sign.

animated sign

A sign that uses sequential lights to provide the illusion of movement.

awning sign

A projecting sign made of flexible material, supported by a frame that is usually attached to the front of a building. The awning sign extends outward and so provides cover so is ideal for over a doorway or building entrance. (See also Illuminated awning sign and Canopy sign).

back to back sign

A sign having two faces mounted in opposite directions. Pole signs typically have back-to-back faces. (See also Double faced sign).

backlit sign

A lit sign where the sign face is illuminated from behind. (See also Illuminated sign, Internally illuminated sign and Exterior illuminated sign).

backlit letter sign

An illuminated reverse channel letter where the light from the letter is directed against and reflected off the surface behind the letter thereby producing a glowing effect around the letter. (See also Halo illuminated letters).

banner

A flexible sign, usually made of vinyl and often intended for temporary. It is commonly manufactured with eyelets to enable fastening to a rigid framework or fence. (See also Flags).

bench sign

A sign mounted onto a seat in a public area with high footfall, such as a bus stop or bench within a shopping area.

billboards

A large outdoor sign used for advertising. Advertisers will rent a billboard sign and display their advertisement on it for a set length of time. Sizes usually vary coming in 48 or 96 sheets.

box signs

A sign that is self enclosed in a typically square or rectangular structure with or without the addition of internal lighting. Can be single or double faced. (See also Lightboxes).

building mounted sign

Any interior or exterior sign that is mounted onto a building.

canopy sign

A projecting canopy sign is usually situated over a building entrance or window and is made of non-rigid material that covers a framework which attaches to a building. As well as providing signage, a Canopy sign can provide shelter to the area underneath. A canopy sign will have a printed exterior surface. It may or not be illuminated. (See also Awning signs).

cast metal sign

Any metal sign that is made through a die cast process. Aluminum and bronze are commonly used for cast metal signs. This is usually the manufacturing process for sign plaques.

carved sign

Any sign made by the engraving or chiselling of letters and/of shapes into the substrate of a sign face.

construction site signs

A temporary sign displayed at a construction site to promote or provide information about the construction project. (See also Hoarding boards, Heras Banners).

correx signs

Economical, temporary signs that are ideal for weather-resistant outdoor usage. Correx is a durable corrugated PVC that can be printed on either side for maximum exposure.

decals

An adhesive sign that is popular for use on windows. “Decals” is also a generic term used for printed and cut out logos for cars, bikes and other vehicles. (See also Stickers).

debossed letters

Signs made of lettering which has been engraved, carved or otherwise recessed into the sign substrate. (See also Embossed letter signs).

direct illumination signs

Illuminating a sign via an additional source of light which is directed at the sign face. (See also Exterior illuminated signs).

directional signs

An informational sign, either written or visual, that helps direct a person to a destination. (See also Fingerpost signage).

directory sign

A sign that provides an organized list of names of people, offices or facilities located within a given building or area. Usually located at a public access point such as a building lobby, a directory sign may provide simple text listings or also include maps and other wayfinding information.

double faced sign

A sign having two faces mounted in opposite directions. Pole signs are typically doubled-faced. (See also Back to back sign).

edge lit sign

An illuminated sign where the light source is positioned on the outside of the sign face along one or more of its edges such that the light shines back onto it.

electric sign

Any sign that contains and utilises electrical components.

electro mechanical sign

A type of message centre sign where an electrically driven mechanical device rotates or flips to produce changing messages.

embossed letters

Signs made of raised lettering which stands out above the sign substrate. (See also Debossed letter signs).

enviroboard

Environmentally friendly alternative to PVC foam boards, ideal for internal and short term internal display boards. Carries FSC certification and is made from 100% recycled products.

exterior illuminated sign

A sign that is illuminated by an external light source directed at and onto the sign face. (See also Direct illumination signage).

exterior sign

An outdoor sign that typically includes shop fascias, commercial signs, directional signs, business signs, industrial signs. Exterior signage can be a large permanent sign to market your business to small mobile pavement signs or temporary outdoor signage. (see also Outdoor Signs)

face illuminated letters

Individual sign letters that are illuminated, usually manufactured with translucent materials and bright LED’s fitted internally so the face is lit up. Made to match the colour of your chosen design and create instant brand recognition. A highly effective way to make a bold brand statement which can produce a variety of effects for your lit sign.

fascia sign

A sign mounted to a wall or other vertical surface. A flat sign that is mounted on a wall and the face of which runs parallel to the wall. A fascia sign does not typically project from the wall.

fingerpost sign

Fingerposts are, as the name would suggest, post mounted directional signs having one or more panels or ‘fingers’, each of which ‘point’ in the direction of a particular destination to assist travel navigation. Usually outdoor signs but can also be utilised to good effect within large buildings. (See also Directional signage).

flags

A flexible sign usually of a small size and made of fabric material. It is attached by one side of the shape to a pole. Often intended for temporary use and most useful when either hung so the graphics are able to be viewed or in windy weather conditions. (See also Banner).

flashing sign

An illuminated sign which uses flashing or intermittent lights as a means of drawing attention.

flat sign

A flat sign is simply a large, flat panel or board that is printed directly to the surface. A simple budget signage option.

fluorescent sign

Similar to Neon signs, Fluorescent signs utilise light tubes. (See also Neon signs).

foamex or foamboard sign

A permanent indoor or temporary outdoor signage solution that is a smoother substrate alternative to correx signs. Both sides can be printed to provide maximum promotional space. Find out if you can recycle foamex.

freestanding sign

A sign that is not attached to a building, has its own support structure and is typically secured to a foundation or with guy wires.

front lit sign

A sign that is lit externally by an alternative light source. (See also Trough lighting)

ground sign

A freestanding sign that is not secured to a foundation or other secondary support structure.

halo illuminated letters

A popular and effective way to light a sign. Bespoke 3d letters are mounted in front of LED’s that create a glow around each letter giving it a halo effect when lit.

hanging sign

A projecting double-faced sign mounted to a wall or pole and hung from a bracket or support arm. (See also Projecting signage).

heras banner

Popular and cost-effective banners, used to cover up heras fencing on and around a construction or building site. Printed on a mesh banner with eyelets to fix onto a fence. (See also Construction site signage, Hoarding boards).

high rise sign

A freestanding sign tall enough to be seen from a distance.

hoarding boards

A large temporary outdoor sign used for advertising. Usually made of boarding and erected around a fence, these are popular signage around construction sites. (See also Construction site signage, Heras banners).

identification sign

A sign that provides the name of the business displaying the sign.

illuminated awning sign

An awning sign that is lit from underneath. The light shines through the awning fabric illuminating whatever text or graphics are on it and providing a way to read effectively at night whilst also lighting the area below the awning.

illuminated sign

Types of commercial signs where the sign face is illuminated or lit up in some manner. (See Lit signage, Internally illuminated sign and Exterior illuminated sign).

illuminated projecting tray sign

Usually manufactured from aluminium and acrylic with low voltage LED’s, this is a robust and eye-catching exterior sign – especially when supporting an illuminated fascia sign. These are mounted to exterior walls and are permanent. (See also Projected tray signs)

incidental sign

A sign intended for informational purposes as opposed to commercial or advertising purposes. Typically smaller in size, examples of incidental signs include parking signs, lavatory signs and entrance and exit signs.

interior sign

Create eye-catching brand recognition with an interior sign. This sign is not exposed to the outdoor weather elements and therefore you have a greater choice of materials to choose from.

internally illuminated sign

A sign that is illuminated by a light source contained within the sign structure or housing. (See also Backlit sign and Exterior illuminated sign.)

lcd sign (liquid crystal display sign)

A type of flat panel display that recreates an image or message through the manipulation of electrically sensitive crystals suspended in a liquid medium. Commonly used in electronic message centres.

led sign (light emitting diode sign)

A small electronic device that emits light when electrically charged. In computer controlled arrays, LEDs can be used to create an electronic message centre. The preferred cost effective method of lighting all modern signs as LED is usually 12v (low energy) which is safer than 230v.

lightboxes

A sign that is self enclosed in a typically square or rectangular structure and houses an internal light system for illumination of the sign face. (See also Box sign.). Ideal for office and retail signage.

lit sign

A sign where the lighting or illumination is created to enable visibility in the dark. (See also Illuminated signage).

low profile sign

A freestanding sign built close to the ground or on top of a base sitting directly on the ground. Often incorporates the support structure into the overall design.

marquee sign

A permanent structure attached to the front of a building. Typically illuminated and often ornate in design, a marquee sign projects over the entrance of the building and provides a canopy over the street.

memorial sign

A sign, typically a plaque, which commemorates a person, place or event.

menu board sign

A changeable point-of-purchase sign that provides a list of products and prices. (See also Variable message signage).

metal sign

Available in almost any shape or size, metal signs are suitable for a huge range of indoor or outdoor uses. Cost effective and durable with many different finishes available, they can achieve the perfect look for your brand. They can be engraved, embossed or etched

monolith sign

An outdoor freestanding, long term sign that is mounted to the ground. Normally comprises of two back to back printed signage panels. (See also Totem sign).

neon sign

An eye-catching illuminated sign that incorporates neon tubing. The neon sign message is created by bending and forming the neon tubes into letters or shapes. (See also Fluorescent signs).

outdoor sign

All signs that are situated outside. They may be permanent or temporary in nature. (See also Exterior signage).

panel and post sign

A sign fabricated by using one or more visible posts to support the sign body. Normally seen for the attachment of all road signs, “council” and informational signs. Aluminium construction and extremely hardwearing.

parapet sign

A sign mounted on the parapet of a building. (See also Building mounted signage).

pavement graphics

Graphics and markings applied to roadways and parking areas to guide and manage traffic and to supplement other traffic signs. Usually with an R rated (anti-slip) laminated applied to the face for safety.

permanent sign

Any sign that is affixed to a building or structure in such a manner as to give it the support necessary to resist environmental loads over time and to preclude easy removal.

plate sign

A projecting wall sign that is an affordable alternative to the projecting tray signage available. Usually manufactured from powder coated, folded metal and printed to your design specification, they are a permanent signage option.

point-of-purchase (pop) sign

In-store advertising designed to stimulate impulse purchases by shoppers inside a store. The term applies to a store’s internal sign system, as well as special displays and dispensers created by and for specific product manufacturers.

pole sign

A freestanding sign, usually double-faced, mounted on a round pole, square tube, or other fabricated member without any type of secondary support.

pop (point of purchase) sign

Retail advertising designed to stimulate impulse purchases by shoppers inside a store. The term applies to a store’s internal sign system, as well as special displays and product dispensers.

portable sign

An on-premise sign which is capable of being repositioned without the need for specialist help. These could include, A-frames, freestanding signs or notices as well as point-of-purchase signs.

posters

A paper signage option, usually for interior display usage. Smaller signage that is exceptionally cheap to produce.

post mounted sign

A sign that is attached to one or more sign poles.

projecting sign

A sign that is attached to a building but extends beyond the building structure. It usually projects at right angles to a wall and is designed to be viewed from up or down the street. Projecting signs usually have graphics on either side.

projecting tray sign

An exterior sign that are wall mounted and usually supports branding to a fascia sign. These are permanent in nature and require little to no maintenance once in situ. (See also Illuminated projecting tray sign)

projecting lightbox sign

A long term, illuminated outdoor signage option that is wall mounted. Lit by sustainable LED’s and manufactured from aluminium and acrylic, these signs are energy efficient as well as eye-catching.

revolving sign

A sign that has the ability to turn 360 degrees in order to deliver changing messages.

sign tray

A sign tray is a folded sign, usually made of aluminium to ensure longevity. A permanent signage option, usually for exterior use. (See also Tray sign).

sign channel

Channel/rail that is attached to the reverse side of the sign and allows clips to be added, that in turn allows fitting to sign posts.

single face sign

A sign consisting of one face, rather than back-to-back faces on a common frame or back-to-back messages on the same piece of material.

stickers

An adhesive sign that is popular for use on windows. (See also Decals).

stone signs

Typically sandstone, granite, marble, limestone and other common decorative stone material. Letters can be stud-mounted to stone or they can be carved into the face of the stone.

temporary sign

Any sign that is not intended to be permanently installed. Banners and signs at construction sites are good examples of temporary signs.

thermoformed signs

A process that takes a flat sheet of material and gives it dimension by heating then forcing it into a mould to create a shape. (See also Vacuum forming signage).

totem signs

An outdoor freestanding, long term sign that is mounted to the ground. Normally comprises of two back to back printed signage panels. Usually an aluminium construction and concreted into the floor. (See also Totem sign).

tray sign

A popular choice of business sign, a tray sign is a folded sign to add depth and impact to the sign (typically 50 or 100mm). This type of sign is usually made of aluminium to ensure durability. A permanent signage option, usually for exterior use. (See also Sign trays).

trough lighting for signs

Solid lighting bars positioned overhead to light the face of signs located on the front of a building. (See also Front lit sign).

under-canopy sign

A sign designed to be mounted underneath a canopy.

variable message sign

A sign designed to provide changing information, such as in airports and cafes or restaurants. (See also Menu board signage).

vacuum formed signs

Taking a flat sheet of material and giving it dimension by placing it in a mold, heating it until pliable and them drawing the air out of the mold, creating a vacuum and forming material to the mold. (See also Thermoforming signage).

vinyl signs

Vinyl signs are usually adhesive and can be applied to many different surfaces, similar to stickers but can be manufactured on a much larger scale. A signage option for vehicles, windows and walls as they have the advantage of being applied to both flat or curved surfaces.

wall mounted sign

A single-face sign mounted on a wall. (See also Wall signage).

wall sign

A sign that is mounted on a wall. Also called Fascia-mounted signs and Wall mounts. (See also Wall mounted sign.)

window sign

A sign that is mounted or hung for display inside a window and intended to be viewed from the outside.

window graphics

Window graphics are usually adhesive printed materials that are mounted for display onto the inside or outside of windows.

3d sign

3D signage is created in a way that brings depth to the sign using layers to enhance its visual appearance so letters and logos can, literally, stand out.

Whilst this is an extensive list of the types of signs for business we offer, it is not exhaustive.

When considering what type of signage to utilise for your business or brand, think about:

• The permanence
• Sign installation
• Permissions required
• Location
• Desired use
• Budget

to get the very best result.

Check out our latest commercial sign project images here.