Cleaning Neon Signs
Written by Craig B

Cleaning Neon Signs

Cleaning neon signs requires careful attention to ensure that the signs remain bright and undamaged. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning neon signs safely and effectively:

Materials Needed:

  • Soft, lint-free cloths or microfiber cloths
  • Soft-bristle brush or small paintbrush
  • Mild detergent or dish soap
  • Water
  • Isopropyl alcohol (optional)
  • Compressed air can (optional)
  • Rubber gloves (optional)
  • Ladder or step stool (if needed)

Steps to Clean Neon Signs:

  1. Turn Off and Unplug the Sign:
    • Ensure the neon sign is turned off and unplugged from the power source to avoid any risk of electric shock.
  2. Dust the Sign:
    • Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a microfiber cloth to gently dust the surface of the sign. For hard-to-reach areas or intricate designs, use a soft-bristle brush or a small paintbrush.
    • You can also use a compressed air can to blow away dust and debris from tight spaces.
  3. Prepare Cleaning Solution:
    • Mix a small amount of mild detergent or dish soap with water to create a gentle cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the neon tubes and the sign’s finish.
  4. Clean the Sign:
    • Dampen a soft cloth with the cleaning solution and gently wipe down the neon tubes and the sign’s surface. Avoid getting the electrical components wet.
    • For stubborn dirt or grease, you can use a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol, but use it sparingly and test on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the sign.
  5. Rinse and Dry:
    • After cleaning, use a cloth dampened with clean water to wipe away any soap residue.
    • Dry the sign thoroughly with a dry, lint-free cloth to prevent water spots and potential damage from moisture.
  6. Inspect the Sign:
    • Check the sign for any remaining dirt or spots. Repeat the cleaning process on any areas that need additional attention.
    • Inspect the sign for any damage, such as cracks in the neon tubes or loose connections. If you find any damage, contact a professional for repairs.

Additional Tips:

  • Wear Rubber Gloves: If you have sensitive skin or are using isopropyl alcohol, consider wearing rubber gloves to protect your hands.
  • Avoid Harsh Conditions: Do not clean the sign in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can cause rapid evaporation and leave streaks.
  • Regular Maintenance: Regularly dusting the sign can prevent the buildup of dirt and make deep cleaning less frequent.
  • Professional Cleaning: For large, complex, or very dirty signs, consider hiring a professional cleaning service that specializes in neon signs.

By following these steps and tips, you can keep your neon sign looking bright and clean, ensuring it remains an attractive and effective display for years to come.

Church Signs Costs 2024
Written by Craig B

Church Signs Costs 2024

The cost of church signs can vary widely depending on factors such as size, materials, design complexity, and installation requirements. Here are some approximate cost ranges for different types of church signs:

  1. Basic Church Signs:
    • Cost Range: $1,000 – $5,000
    • Description: Simple signage with basic lettering and graphics, typically made of materials like aluminum, PVC, or HDU (High-Density Urethane). These signs are often mounted on posts or walls near the entrance of the church.
  2. Digital Church Signs:
    • Cost Range: $10,000 – $50,000+
    • Description: LED or electronic message signs that can display dynamic content such as announcements, event schedules, and inspirational messages. These signs offer versatility and visibility but come with higher initial and maintenance costs.
  3. Monument Church Signs:
    • Cost Range: $5,000 – $20,000+
    • Description: Freestanding signs typically made of durable materials like brick, stone, or concrete. Monument signs provide a more prominent and permanent presence for the church and can include custom features like integrated lighting or landscaping.
  4. Pylon Church Signs:
    • Cost Range: $20,000 – $100,000+
    • Description: Tall, freestanding signs mounted on poles or pillars, often located near roadways or parking lots for maximum visibility. Pylon signs are suitable for larger churches or campuses and can incorporate multiple panels, branding elements, and architectural details.
  5. Wayfinding and Directional Signs:
    • Cost Range: $500 – $5,000+
    • Description: Signs designed to guide visitors to various areas of the church property, including parking lots, entrances, classrooms, and facilities. These signs can be simple or elaborate depending on the size and layout of the church campus.

It’s essential to consider not only the upfront cost of the sign but also long-term factors such as maintenance, energy consumption (for digital signs), and local regulations or permits. Additionally, custom designs or special features may incur additional costs but can enhance the aesthetics and functionality of the church sign. Consulting with a reputable signage company or contractor can help determine the best options within the church’s budget and requirements.

Can an HOA legally restrict yard signs?
Written by Craig B

Can an HOA legally restrict yard signs?

Whether a homeowners association (HOA) can legally restrict yard signs depends on various factors, including the HOA’s governing documents, state and local laws, and constitutional considerations. Here are some key points to consider:

  1. HOA Governing Documents: The HOA’s covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&R’s), as well as its bylaws and rules, typically outline the powers and limitations of the HOA board regarding property use, aesthetics, and signage. If the governing documents specifically prohibit or restrict yard signs, the HOA may have the authority to enforce those restrictions.
  2. State and Local Laws: Some states have laws that protect homeowners’ rights to display certain types of signs, including political signs, for-sale signs, or religious signs, regardless of HOA rules. Additionally, local zoning ordinances or sign regulations may impact the HOA’s ability to restrict yard signs.
  3. Constitutional Considerations: Restrictions on the content of signs may implicate First Amendment free speech rights. Courts have sometimes struck down HOA sign restrictions that are deemed overly broad or discriminatory based on content. However, restrictions that are content-neutral and serve a legitimate purpose, such as maintaining aesthetics or preventing safety hazards, may be upheld.
  4. Reasonableness and Enforcement: Even if an HOA has the authority to regulate yard signs, its rules must be reasonable and uniformly enforced. Arbitrary or selective enforcement of sign regulations could invite legal challenges from homeowners.
  5. Amendment Procedures: Homeowners typically have the ability to amend the HOA’s governing documents through a vote of the membership. If homeowners disagree with sign restrictions, they may pursue efforts to amend the CC&R’s or bylaws to allow for greater flexibility regarding yard signs.

It’s essential for homeowners to review their HOA’s governing documents, consult with legal counsel if necessary, and understand their rights and obligations regarding yard signs. Likewise, HOA boards should carefully consider the legal implications and community interests when establishing or enforcing sign regulations.

Church Signs Costs 2024
Written by Craig B

Church Signs Costs 2023

Church signs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles, each with its own unique cost considerations. To give you a clearer picture, let’s explore the factors that influence the price tag of your church sign:

Type of Sign:

  • Monument signs: These freestanding signs, often made of brick or stone, are highly visible and durable but come at the highest cost, ranging from $5,500 to $18,000+ depending on size and materials.
  • Channel letter signs: These 3D illuminated letters offer great visibility and a modern look, costing between $1,500 and $10,000+ based on size, complexity, and lighting.
  • Marquees: These traditional electronic signs with changeable letters are a classic choice, with prices ranging from $5,000 to $10,000+ for basic models and significantly higher for digital options.
  • Acrylic signs: Flat panels with printed graphics offer a budget-friendly option, costing between $200 and $2,000+ depending on size and printing method.
  • Banners: Flexible and temporary, these are a good choice for temporary announcements, ranging from $100 to $500+ based on size and material.

Size:

Naturally, larger signs require more material and labor, driving up the cost. This applies to all types of signs mentioned above.

Materials: From budget-friendly vinyl to premium stainless steel, material choices significantly impact the price. For example, acrylic is cheaper than metal for channel letters, while aluminum is often more affordable than steel for monument signs.

Illumination: Illuminated signs, especially those using LED lighting, are more expensive than non-illuminated ones. This can significantly increase the cost of marquees and channel letters.

Design and Complexity: Intricate designs, custom fonts, and additional elements like logos or 3D lettering all contribute to the price. Simpler designs with standard fonts are generally more budget-friendly.

Fabrication and Installation: Professional fabrication and installation, especially for large or complex signs, add to the overall cost. Consider getting quotes from multiple sign companies to compare prices.

Permits and Regulations: Local zoning laws and permit requirements can influence the feasibility and cost of your chosen sign type. Make sure to check with your local authorities before finalizing your plans.

Additional Considerations

  • Warranty: Opting for a longer warranty might come at a premium but provides peace of mind.
  • Maintenance and repair: All signs require some level of maintenance and potential repairs over time. Factor in these long-term costs when budgeting.
  • Energy Efficiency: LED lighting offers significant energy savings compared to traditional options, especially for illuminated signs.

Cost Saving Tips:

  • Define your budget and choose a sign type that fits it.
  • Opt for standard sizes and simpler designs to keep costs down.
  • Compare quotes from different sign companies and negotiate if possible.
  • Consider non-illuminated options unless nighttime visibility is crucial.
  • Explore alternative materials like acrylic or vinyl for smaller signs.
  • Utilize volunteer help for installation if feasible and permitted.

Remember:

  • Church signs play a vital role in community outreach and brand recognition.
  • Investing in quality materials and professional fabrication ensures longevity and optimal impact.
  • Balancing cost with desired features and potential cost-saving options can help you get the most out of your church sign investment.
Custom Sign Fabrication
Written by Craig B

Can I Have A Sign In My Front Yard

Whether you can have a sign in your front yard depends on a variety of factors, including your local zoning regulations and homeowner’s association rules if applicable. Here are some considerations:

  1. Local Zoning Regulations: Most municipalities have zoning regulations that dictate what can and cannot be placed in your front yard. These regulations often cover the size, type, and location of signs. You may need to obtain a permit for certain types of signs.
  2. Homeowner’s Association (HOA) Rules: If you live in a community with a homeowner’s association, there may be rules and restrictions regarding signs in your front yard. These rules can be more restrictive than local zoning regulations.
  3. Content of the Sign: Some regulations may govern the content of signs, such as prohibiting offensive or misleading messages.
  4. Safety and Visibility: There might be rules related to safety and visibility, especially if the sign could obstruct the view of drivers or pedestrians.
  5. Size and Placement: Regulations often specify the size and placement of signs, including setbacks from the property line and height restrictions.
  6. Temporary vs. Permanent: Regulations may differentiate between temporary signs (e.g., political campaign signs) and permanent signs.
  7. Permits: If required, you may need to obtain a permit to put up a sign in your front yard.

Political Signs

The regulations regarding political signs in your front yard can vary depending on your location and local laws. In the United States, for example, the display of political signs is generally protected as a form of free speech under the First Amendment. However, there are some common restrictions and guidelines to consider:

  1. Size and Placement: Local regulations often specify the size and placement of political signs. They may need to be a certain distance from the road, not obstruct visibility for drivers, or not encroach on public property.
  2. Time Limits: Some areas have restrictions on how far in advance of an election you can display political signs and how long they can remain up after an election.
  3. Permits: In some places, you may need a permit to display political signs, especially if you plan to have a large number of signs.
  4. Private Property: Political signs are typically allowed on private property, such as your front yard, as long as they comply with local regulations.
  5. Homeowner’s Associations (HOAs): If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowner’s association, you should also check their rules and regulations. Some HOAs may have restrictions on the size and placement of political signs.
  6. Content: Generally, you should be able to display signs supporting political candidates or causes of your choice, but there may be restrictions related to offensive or inappropriate content.

To determine the specific rules and regulations regarding political signs in your front yard, you should contact your local zoning or planning department and review your HOA’s guidelines (if applicable). It’s important to ensure that your political signs comply with the local laws and regulations to avoid any potential issues.

To determine whether you can have a sign in your front yard and what rules apply, you should contact your local zoning or planning department and check your HOA’s rules and regulations if applicable. It’s essential to comply with these regulations to avoid potential fines or legal issues.

The Right Tagline
Written by Craig B

Do Commercial Signs Require Planning Permission?

Whether commercial signs require planning permission depends on several factors, including local zoning regulations, the size and type of sign, and the specific location where the sign will be placed. Planning permission requirements vary from one jurisdiction to another, and it’s essential to check with your local planning or zoning authority to determine the rules and regulations that apply in your area. However, here are some general guidelines:

  1. Size and Type of Sign: Many jurisdictions have specific regulations regarding the size and type of commercial signs that can be installed without planning permission. Small signs, such as nameplates or signs on shop windows, may not require planning permission in some areas. However, larger signs or those with special features (e.g., illuminated signs, billboards) are more likely to require permission.
  2. Location: The location of the sign can also affect whether planning permission is required. Signs placed in designated commercial or business zones may have different rules than those placed in residential areas or historic districts.
  3. Design and Aesthetics: Some jurisdictions have guidelines for the design and aesthetics of commercial signs, especially in areas with specific architectural or historic preservation considerations. Compliance with these guidelines may be a requirement for obtaining planning permission.
  4. Temporary Signs: Temporary signs, such as banners or signs for special events, may have different regulations than permanent signs. Temporary signs may be subject to specific time limits and restrictions.
  5. Signage on Vehicles: In some areas, signage on vehicles, such as company logos and advertising, may be regulated differently than signs attached to buildings. This is known as “vehicle signage” or “mobile advertising.”
  6. Signage in Home-Based Businesses: If you run a business from your home, there may be restrictions on the size and type of signs you can use to promote your business, even if it’s a home-based business.
  7. Historic Districts: Signs in historic districts are often subject to more stringent regulations to preserve the historic character of the area. Planning permission may be required for any sign changes in these districts.
  8. Illuminated Signs: Illuminated signs, such as neon signs or LED displays, may have specific regulations related to lighting, brightness, and energy efficiency.

To determine whether planning permission is required for a commercial sign, it’s essential to contact your local planning or zoning authority or consult the municipal code and regulations that apply to your specific location. Violating signage regulations can result in fines and the removal of the sign, so it’s crucial to ensure compliance with local rules before installing or modifying any commercial signage.

Making business signs noticeable is crucial for attracting customers and effectively promoting your business. Here are several tips to help ensure your business signs grab attention and leave a lasting impression:

  1. Choose the Right Location:
    • Place your signs where they will be easily seen by your target audience. Consider factors like foot traffic, vehicle traffic, and visibility from nearby roads or intersections.
  2. Size and Legibility:
    • Ensure that the size of your sign is appropriate for its location. It should be large enough to be easily read from a distance. Use legible fonts and avoid overly decorative or complex styles.
  3. Contrast and Color:
    • Use high-contrast colors to make your sign stand out. Contrast between text and background helps with readability. Choose colors that align with your brand and are visually appealing.
  4. Simplicity and Clarity:
    • Keep your message concise and to the point. A cluttered sign with too much information can overwhelm viewers. Focus on the essential details, such as your business name, logo, and a brief message.
  5. Eye-Catching Design:
    • Invest in professional design or graphics that are visually appealing and align with your brand identity. A well-designed sign can make a significant difference in attracting attention.
  6. Lighting:
    • If possible, use lighting to illuminate your sign, especially for signs that are displayed at night. Backlit signs, neon signs, or LED lighting can make your sign visible in low-light conditions.
  7. Use Imagery:
    • Incorporate relevant images, graphics, or your logo to enhance the visual appeal of your sign. A well-placed image can help convey your message and brand identity.
  8. Motion and Animation:
    • In some cases, animated or moving signs can be attention-grabbing. However, use motion sparingly, as overly animated signs can become distracting.
  9. Position and Placement:
    • Make sure your sign is positioned at eye level and at a comfortable viewing angle. Ensure it’s not obstructed by other objects or foliage.
  10. Regular Maintenance:
    • Keep your sign clean, well-maintained, and free from damage. Faded or damaged signs can give a negative impression of your business.
  11. Consistency:
    • Use consistent branding and design elements across all your signage to create a unified and easily recognizable brand image.
  12. Local Regulations:
    • Be aware of local regulations and permit requirements for outdoor signs. Ensure that your sign complies with zoning and sign codes.
  13. Social Media and QR Codes:
    • Consider including social media handles or QR codes on your sign to direct viewers to your online presence for additional information or promotions.
  14. Test and Get Feedback:
    • Before finalizing your sign design, gather feedback from employees, customers, or focus groups. Test the sign’s visibility from different angles and distances.

Remember that the effectiveness of your business sign is a combination of design, placement, and message. The goal is to create a sign that not only grabs attention but also conveys your brand and message clearly to your target audience.

What Are The Best Fonts For Signage
Written by Craig B

What Are The Best Fonts For Signage?

The best font for signage depends on the specific application, but some popular choices include:

  • Sans serif fonts: Sans serif fonts are fonts that do not have serifs, which are the small strokes that extend from the ends of the letters. Sans serif fonts are generally considered to be more modern and easy to read, making them a good choice for signage that needs to be seen from a distance. Some popular sans serif fonts include Arial, Helvetica, and Trebuchet.
    Sans serif fonts Arial, Helvetica, and Trebuchet
  • Serif fonts: Serif fonts have serifs, which are the small strokes that extend from the ends of the letters. Serif fonts are generally considered to be more classic and elegant, making them a good choice for signage that needs to be seen up close. Some popular serif fonts include Times New Roman, Garamond, and Baskerville.
    Serif fonts Times New Roman, Garamond, and Baskerville
  • Script fonts: Script fonts are fonts that are modeled after handwriting. Script fonts can be used to create a more personal or creative look for signage. However, they can be difficult to read from a distance, so they should be used with caution. Some popular script fonts include Brush Script, Copperplate, and Script MT Bold.
    Script fonts Brush Script, Copperplate, and Script MT Bold
  • Display fonts: Display fonts are fonts that are designed to be eye-catching and attention-grabbing. Display fonts can be used to create a strong visual impact for signage. However, they should be used sparingly, as they can be difficult to read. Some popular display fonts include Impact, Comic Sans, and Jokerman.
    Display fonts Impact, Comic Sans, and Jokerman

When choosing a font for signage, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • The size of the sign: The size of the sign will affect the readability of the font. Larger signs can use smaller fonts, while smaller signs will need to use larger fonts.
  • The distance from which the sign will be read: The distance from which the sign will be read will also affect the readability of the font. Signs that will be read from a distance will need to use larger fonts with simpler strokes.
  • The style of the sign: The style of the sign will also affect the choice of font. For example, a modern sign would typically use a sans serif font, while a classic sign would typically use a serif font.
  • The message of the sign: The message of the sign should also be considered when choosing a font. For example, a sign that is trying to be informative would typically use a more serious font, while a sign that is trying to be creative would typically use a more playful font.

By following these tips, you can choose the right font for your signage and ensure that your message is clear and easy to read.

 

Custom Sign Fabrication
Written by Craig B

Best Colors For Signage

Color psychology has shown colors can impact our impulses, moods and decision-making ability. As colors are so important in advertising and marketing, it is important to find the right colors for your sign. Read on to learn more.

Gray

A very safe color that is practical as well as calming, making it a popular choice for varied industries. But it can appear to be dull and is often best used with a contrasting color.

Orange

Orange gives off an aura of confidence and warmth as well as optimism. It is a bold color and should be used in a sparing fashion.

Pink

Feminine, calming and of course, romantic. Usually used in marketing to females it can work in other settings if used judiciously.

Purple

Purple brings originality, art, and creativity to mind and can be associated with depth, wealth and mystery. Be it a high-end brand or a fun brand, purple is very versatile.

Green

Nature, free and calm is just some of the attributes of the color green equalling thoughts od tranquility, freedom and freshness.

Blue

Representing virtues such as productivity, authority, and trustworthiness, they are great at building trust among customers and make them feel happier as well as more productive by choosing to do business with you.

Yellow

A warm, vibrant and happy color that makes people feel good about themselves. Sadly, it is a color people either hate or love!

Red

An impulse buy color that can capture excitement and passion as well as someone’s attention.

Black

A powerful, mysterious yet seductive color that can draw people in. But if it is overdone it can look off-putting. Goes well with any color!

White

Reassuring as well as calm, with associations of purity and cleanliness. But an abundance of white can make a business appear sterile, cold or empty.

Cleaning Neon Signs
Written by Craig B

Keeping Neon Signs Clean

If you neon sign is looking a little dingy, the following steps can help you with some clean up to make it look as good as new. WARNING: Never clean a neon sign without first unplugging; the high voltage can cause serious injuries. Do not soak the sign with the solution; the block-out paint on the neon tubes can crack and peel off. Read on to learn more.

Materials

You will need the following:

  • Soft bristle nylon brush
  • 1/2-cup household ammonia
  • 1/2-cup water
  • Plastic container
  • Microfiber cloth
  1. Unplug the neon sign or light and allow the tubes to cool completely.
  2. Use a soft bristle nylon brush or a soft dry sock to remove dust from the surface of the sign. use only very light pressure to prevent damage or breakage of the light.
  3. Perform an inspection to look for any residue that is stubborn. Nicotine stains are a good example. If stains or residue remains, use half a cup of water with a half cup of household ammonia and pour it into a container made from plastic.
  4. Use a microfiber cloth and dip it into the solution you have assembled and then wring out the cloth removing the excess.
  5. Gently wipe the tubes with the damp cloth to remove residue and stains. Then allow the air tubes to air dry totally.
The Right Tagline
Written by Craig B

The Correct Tagline

  • “The broader your tagline is, the more often people will forget about your product. The more focused it is, the more people will think about your product when a specific, real-world scenario happens. Then that tagline gets triggered, and they think about your product. You have to be specific and scenario-driven.”
    Rameet ChawlaFueled
  • “Taglines should evolve with the company and are not easy to create. Some easy pitfalls are trying to wrap what you do, why you do it, who you’re doing it for, and where you are doing it all in one tagline. Another easy pitfall is getting too cutesy. Not every slogan needs alliteration, a clever rhyme, or a pun.”
    Abby RossThinkCERCA
  • “A tagline needs to say a lot with a little. For example, at Astonish, our tagline is “The Best Friend of the Local Agent.” It speaks to our audience and says a ton. It says we care, we are here, we will support you in your time of need, we will celebrate with you in your time of success, a friend of yours is a friend of ours, and an enemy of yours is our enemy, too. That’s a powerful tagline!” Adam DeGraideAstonish
  • “A good slogan gets engrained in consumers’ heads the first time they are exposed to it. A good example of this is a local air conditioning company that uses controversy for its tagline: “Your wife is hot.” Citgo grabs attention by leveraging a play on words: “Fueling Good.” The same goes for an energy company that kills two birds with one slogan: “Changing the Current.” —Logan LenzEndagon
  • “You shouldn’t worry about being cool or edgy with your tagline. Your goal should be a tagline that encapsulates in a few words the best of what your company is. What is it about your product that will make people’s lives better? Now, evoke that with supreme economy. This is not easy to do. That is why there are copywriters.” Danny BoiceSpeek
  • Make sure your tagline provides a picture of what you do. Branding is all about clarity. Most people try to be too cute. For example, Lexus’s old tagline, “Pursuit of Perfection,” connects with their audience of high achievers who are literally pursuing perfection. What Lexus is signaling is that their car provides the visual evidence that you as the driver are pursuing perfection.” —Raoul DavisAscendant Group
  • “It’s true that the best taglines are simple and memorable, but they’re also something else: functional. A tagline should explain your product or service to potential customers or capture what it is that makes your business different from your competitors’ businesses.” Brittany HodakZinePak
  • “What’s your story? What gets you emotional when you think about what you do? Whatever it is, that’s your positioning. Your logo and tagline should communicate precisely that feeling. Also, get a great firm working at your side. Our investors, Breakaway Innovation Group, helped us tremendously with our new branding.” Jordan FliegelCoachUp
  • “Too many slogans and taglines today take what I call the “generic lifestylist” path. They’re vague and kind of hollow-sounding (think KFC’s “So Good” or The Source’s “I Want That”). You can practically see the soulless marketing meeting that happened behind the scenes. Instead, slogans and taglines should speak directly to a benefit.”
    Amanda AitkenThe Girl’s Guide to Graphic Design
  • “We see so many taglines that try to say too much. If you can’t explain to people in three to five words what you do, then it will be hard to communicate the vision to your employees. A slogan isn’t just about marketing success, it’s also about having internal customers see the vision and the mission that the company is working on.” Derek CapoNext Step China
Source: https://www.inc.com/young-entrepreneur-council/10-tips-for-a-remarkable-tagline.html

 

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