So what comes to your mind when I say the two words “Custom Signage“? Is it an outdoor 4 foot by 8 foot wood sign with vinyl lettering applied to it or is it a profile cut sign created from various substrates using different epoxies to apply them to one another? Truthfully you wouldn’t be all together wrong if you said BOTH!
A custom sign is defined as a sign designed, manufactured and installed to meet the requirements of a specific location. So basically, a custom sign is any sign that needs additional altering from the standard prepackaged sign. Prepackaged signs are normally ADA (American Disability) signs or restroom or hazard signs. If you need to put cut vinyl on a board and place it on the wall, it suddenly becomes custom. The main issue with signage is the moment the sign becomes custom so does the price.
The best way to combat against the rising cost of signage is to do your research before committing to the purchase. There are various items to research first but foremost research the reputation of the sign or exhibit house creating your sign.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A CUSTOM EXHIBIT OR SIGN HOUSE:
– Reputation
Does their reputation precede them? Who have they worked with in the past? Do they have public testimonials available or on their website?
– Know your choices in substrates
Most sign shops or exhibit houses will offer you what they consider to be the best material for the job at hand. This is not always the best but can be the cheapest for them to purchase then mark up. Research the best types of sign materials and what their uses are that way when you go to purchase the sign you are talking their language. http://signweb.com is an excellent resource to find info out about signage options available today.
– Vinyl or no Vinyl that is the question.
Cut vinyl is not always the best solution for you sign but it may be the cheapest and it may last the longest. The life of vinyl is dependent upon the location that is it used in. Hot sunny areas will give you vinyl less life while indoor applications with lengthen the life of the vinyl on the sign.
– Get a warranty
No matter what the sign guy tells you about the life of his materials if he or she does not offer a warranty to back it up then its not worth anything. GET A WARRANTY. Manufacturer warranties don’t normally exist in the sign industry so make sure you get it in writing up front!
Posted by 2exhibitguys 
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