How to Design Great Outdoor Business Signs

You’ve likely heard that you only have about 7 seconds to make a strong first impression on someone.

However, when it comes to your business’s signage, you have even less time to communicate what you have to offer and to form a connection with potential customers.

That’s a serious challenge.

Outdoor business signs are a crucial part of building your brand recognition and piquing the interest of those who have never heard of your company. This means their design is incredibly important.

Need help creating the perfect outdoor business sign? Keep reading to find out what it takes.

Materials Matter

Of course, since your sign will need to stand up to the elements, the type of material a sign is made from matters.

But that’s not the only reason why you need to consider if you want a wooden, metal, vinyl, or other type of material. The materials you use will also impact your color options, the font you can use, and even how well your graphics stand out.

For example, if you want to communicate an upscale and classic look, go for a carved wooden sign that allows you to shadow your words and graphics. If affordability and durability is your game, high density urethane plastic is best.

Live in an area where storms are common? We suggest you go with a non-corrosive metal material.

Keep Things Legible

It can be tempting to get carried away with all of today’s color and typography options.

But if you choose a font that’s too loopy or colors that blend in too much with the rest of the building, you’re doing yourself and your customers a serious disservice.

The experts at Grandmark Signs say that for every inch of letter height, you’ll get about 10 more feet of visibility.

When you’re creating outdoor business signs, make sure you embrace contrasting colors to help your text stand out better. Do a vision test with the sizes and fonts you’re considering. See if they’re legible from 10, 50, and 100 feet away.

Especially since your sign will be outdoors, it’s important that there’s a sense of balance between your text and any images/logos you use on your sign.

Finally, consider installing outdoor lighting to illuminate the sign 24/7, and to make it even easier to read.

Focus on Placement

Even the best-designed signs in the world won’t do anything to help you if you don’t place them correctly.

Make sure your sign won’t be blocked by other signs or buildings near your storefront. If you need to raise the height of your sign to make it more visible, do so.

Also, consider the angle of your sign. Can people coming from different directions get a clear view of it? If not, make some adjustments.

Does your sign’s design look too similar to the other signage in the area? Unless you’re under design restriction, make some changes.

You’re Ready to Create Perfect Outdoor Business Signs

Thanks to this post, you know what it takes to create eye-catching and durable outdoor business signs.

Looking for more advice on how to build your brand and better advertise your business?

No matter what industry you’re in, we can help. Spend some time on our website to learn more about how to take your company to the next level.