How to Keep a Business Sign from Fading
A great-looking business sign isn’t just an investment in your company’s brand– it serves as a reflection of your company’s identity and professionalism. Think about it: are you more likely to visit a store or restaurant with a sign that’s vibrant and brand-new, or one with a sign that’s cracked, faded, and peeling? Which one gives a better impression and establishes more trust in the quality of the place, even at first glance?
Over time, signs that are exposed to the elements can fade or become damaged, losing their impact and even affecting public perception of your business. The good news is that there are a few methods we’d recommend to keep your business sign looking great for years to come.
Understanding why business signs fade
There are a few main reasons why business signs fade over time. The sun gives off ultraviolet (UV) rays, which are harmful to our skin but also harmful to signs!
These UV rays are often a major culprit in business sign fading, along with other environmental factors like rain and snow, wind, and air pollution. All of these factors can cause colors to fade and materials to crack, peel, or deteriorate.
Selecting the right signage materials
Choosing high-quality materials is an important first step in preventing sign fading. UV-resistant paints and coatings can be a game-changer in maintaining signs over the years. Selecting durable materials like aluminum, acrylic, or PVC can also greatly extend the sign’s lifespan.
Of course, choosing materials like stone and metal will always last the longest. A beautiful monument sign is built to last for decades, while other types of signage have a much shorter lifespan. If you’re not sure what materials will be best for your business’s needs, we’re here to help– so don’t be afraid to ask!
Cleaning and maintenance
Routine cleaning and maintenance are vital for preserving a sign’s appearance. At least a few times a year, clean your sign with a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner and water– avoiding harsh chemicals that can accelerate fading or cause other damage to the surface of your sign.
Remembering to regularly inspect your sign can also help you to identify issues, like peeling paint or cracks, early enough to stop them in their tracks and prevent further damage.
Applying UV-protective coatings
Because UV rays can be so harmful to signs, consider investing in UV-protective coatings for your sign! These coatings can act as a barrier that prevents UV rays from reaching the surface of your sign. You can purchase these coatings as a clear coat that’s applied over the surface of the sign, but be sure to consult with your sign shop professional before applying anything directly to your sign. We’ll give you our best recommendations!
Retouching and repainting
Depending on what type of sign you have, you might benefit from routine retouching and repainting. However, this is definitely a job that requires the skill of a professional. Give us a call first, and we can recommend the best course of action for touching up your sign.
Signage makes a difference
No matter what type of sign you’ve chosen to represent your business, its appearance can have a big impact on attracting customers. By understanding why signage fades, and choosing the proper materials and methods of protection and maintenance, you can keep your sign looking bright and attractive for many years to come.
Reach out to get a quote for your business sign today.