Outdoor signage is a great way to let people know where you are and what you do, although it is vulnerable to weather damage. This is not just about extreme weather like tornadoes, hurricanes, and snowstorms; we’re also talking about more regular weather conditions like rain and snow. Even thunderstorms, as well as the sun and wind, can harm your signage.
But do not fret, there are actually several things you can do to make sure that your outdoor signage can withstand the weather. Following these six pointers will help you keep your outdoor signage looking its best and bring customers to your business for many years to come.
1. Make use of durable, water-resistant materials
Choosing a weather-resistant material is the first step in producing an outdoor sign that will withstand the elements and last for years. Rock or metal, for example, may withstand the elements better than other materials. Powder coating, on the other hand, is extremely resistant to wear and tear and is impenetrable to chipping, fading, and scratching, regardless of the application. Because it doesn’t rust or corrode easily over time, it is a great choice for metal parts that will be outside.
Powder coating needs polymer resin systems mixed with curative, agents, additives, and pigments. Signs can also be made of aluminum, which can last 7 to 10 years and is also resistant to water. Moreover, depending on the type of wood and water-proof treatment, wooden signs can survive for a decade or longer. As an additional benefit, stainless steel is a long-lasting sign material that prevents corrosion when subjected to rain or snow. Since this is a long-lasting indication, it is a good option.
2. Ensure that your outdoor signs are securely installed
When it comes to heavy winds, even the best-made outdoor sign material won’t hold up without being securely attached. If you’re hanging a banner, for example, make sure to use steel wires to assist in keeping it steady against the wind. To further minimize its exposure to the wind, it’s a good idea to place any outdoor signage next to a building or other sturdy structure.
Moreover, there are a few things you can do to make sure your pole-mounted outdoor signage can withstand the elements. You may first secure your sign by adding an additional pole. Second, use concrete to anchor the poles to the ground so they can endure wind and rain.
3. Take advantage of moisture-proof exterior signage
When it’s raining heavily, snowing, or there’s fog, condensation can form on your outdoor signs. Water can corrode, mold, or deform a sign, depending on the materials used. If you’re installing a digital sign outside, be sure the gear you’re using is waterproof.
However, there are alternatives you can try. You may protect your sign from moisture by purchasing a weather-resistant coating, such as powder coating, to keep it in better shape. Powder coating needs a powder coating gun to get things done, and you’re now set for that easily!
Additionally, the borders of some signs, such as a yard or business signs, can be protected from water damage by attaching plastic or metal covers. Corrugated plastic lawn signs should also be positioned in well-draining soil to avoid water from collecting around them.
4. On a consistent basis, check your outdoor signs
Keeping an eye on your signs is one of the best ways to guarantee that they don’t get waterlogged and can withstand any weather conditions. Maintain an eye out for symptoms of corrosion, mildew, or damage, and fix them as quickly as possible to keep your sign looking its best and attracting customers.
Checking on your signs every two or three weeks is a smart idea, as is doing so after any weather event that might harm your sign.
5. Choose the appropriate location
Choosing the correct position for your outdoor sign is another approach to help minimize weather damage. For example, it may seem like a good idea to place your sign in a bright location, but keep in mind that the light might fade your sign. Instead, aim to place your sign in a shady location.
Also, think twice before putting your signage in the shade of a tree since a tree limb might break and fall on it during a storm, causing it to be damaged. Instead, think about putting the outdoor sign behind a shady structure.
6. Consider portable signage as an option
It’s a good idea to put up signs on poles and on the sides of buildings, but harsh weather can have a negative impact. Consider employing portable signs to safeguard your exterior signs from bad weather.
In the event of adverse weather, you can remove your personalized signs, flags, and even banners from the front of your shop to avoid them being damaged.
