What is the signage design journey?

The signage design journey balances creative vision with technical precision. It typically follows four phases: Concept Phase (conceptual sketches), Artwork Refinement (vector art), Technical Drawing (scaled production drawings), and Approval (final client sign-off).

What are free conceptual sketches?

We provide complimentary conceptual sketches to help clients explore layout, typography, color schemes, and overall aesthetics. These are for visualization only and are not to scale, so they cannot be used for permits or fabrication.

What are production-ready drawings?

Production-ready drawings are precise, scaled documents that include engineering-grade layouts, code compliance details, and installation specifications. They ensure fabrication and installation match the approved design and meet all regulatory requirements.

What CAD drawing services do you provide?

Our CAD services convert architectural files or sketches into permit-ready drawings. They support permit submittals, fabrication preparation, and compliance with building codes and landlord requirements.

Why is vector artwork required for signage?

Vector artwork ensures crisp, scalable graphics that retain quality at any size. It enables accurate cut paths, color matching, and proper integration with lighting. Accepted formats include AI, EPS, and layered PDF.

What happens in the final approval process?

Before fabrication, we deliver detailed production drawings for client review. Feedback and revisions are addressed before final sign-off, ensuring alignment on specifications, materials, and appearance before production begins.

How do you transition from design to reality?

After approval, we move to material procurement, custom fabrication, quality control, and professional installation. This ensures your signage matches approved designs while meeting technical and regulatory standards.

Why does wayfinding matter?

Wayfinding signage reduces confusion, enhances brand image, improves flow and safety, and builds customer trust. Clear directional cues ensure visitors navigate confidently and enjoy a positive experience.

What types of wayfinding signage exist?

Wayfinding signage includes exterior directional signs, interior identifiers, confirmation signs, and regulatory signage. Together, they answer the questions: 'Where am I, and where do I go next?'

What are the principles of good wayfinding design?

Good wayfinding design is based on consistency, clarity, hierarchy, and legibility. Unified fonts, colors, and icons create cohesion, while short, clear messages and ADA-compliant legibility ensure accessibility.

How should small businesses approach wayfinding?

Small businesses should ensure signage guides visitors from the street or parking lot to the entrance, label restrooms and checkout clearly, use cohesive fonts and arrows, and plan flow to minimize confusion. Strong wayfinding builds customer confidence from day one.

How can architects and facility planners implement wayfinding?

Architects and facility planners should map zones, separate traffic types, ensure ADA and fire code compliance, and plan for maintenance and expansion. Strategic planning ensures a comprehensive wayfinding system that enhances user experience in larger spaces.

Can wayfinding be designed before a building is complete?

Yes. Reviewing plans, overlaying signage concepts, advising on specifications, and preparing packages for approvals allow signage to be integrated seamlessly into architectural projects, even before construction is complete.

What is the wayfinding process?

The wayfinding process includes site surveys or plan review, flow mapping, layout and messaging, approval drawings, and final fabrication and installation. This ensures signage is accurate, compliant, and user-friendly.

What services does Plumb Signs offer beyond electric signage?

Plumb Signs provides wall murals, environmental branding, interior wayfinding and ADA signage, custom contour-cut prints, and direct-to-substrate displays. These services extend your brand presence across all interior spaces.

What are the benefits of wall graphics and murals?

Wall graphics and murals transform blank walls into immersive brand experiences. Options include seamless vinyl wraps, textured media for difficult surfaces, and custom-cut installations. They are ideal for lobbies, gyms, banks, schools, and medical offices.

What types of interior signage and ADA solutions are available?

Plumb Signs produces reception and lobby signs, directional systems, room identification, and ADA-compliant tactile signage. Premium finishes include acrylic, brushed metal, layered vinyl, and custom textures, with full installation support available.

What custom printing capabilities does Plumb Signs have?

Plumb Signs offers direct-to-panel printing on acrylic, PVC, aluminum, and wood; contour cut graphics for decals and labels; and versatile applications like window, floor, and wall vinyl. With dual flatbed and digital printers, we can produce one-offs and short-run projects quickly.

Why is in-house production important for interior branding?

In-house production ensures consistent quality, faster turnaround, and better coordination. By keeping design, printing, and fabrication under one roof, Plumb Signs delivers cohesive brand experiences while reducing coordination challenges.

How can Plumb Signs help transform my space?

Plumb Signs can provide a full consultation, from murals and vinyl wraps to ADA signage and custom prints. Our team manages design, production, and installation, delivering cohesive brand environments that extend beyond your building’s exterior.

What is a technical site survey?

A technical site survey is an on-site evaluation and measurement conducted before design finalization or permitting begins. It includes inspections of mounting surfaces, measurements, electrical access identification, and photos for design and code review.

When is a technical site survey needed?

A survey is needed when site conditions are unknown, when compliance with landlord, city, or franchise requirements must be ensured, when electrical or mounting details are unclear, or when signage must align precisely with storefronts or elevations.

What is included in a technical site survey?

Plumb Signs surveys include a photo-annotated report, mounting area dimensions, detailed surface notes, exact wall measurements for to-scale drawings, and identification of electrical access and installation zones.

How does a survey ensure drawings are to-scale?

Survey measurements ensure production drawings match real-world dimensions. Clients approve signage with accurate context for placement and clearances, and installers receive precise, reliable plans.

What are the permitting and safety benefits of a survey?

Surveys help identify code or landlord restrictions early, ensure safe installations with proper mounting approaches, and provide a foundation for engineering drawings. This reduces delays, risks, and costly change orders.

Why is a professional survey important for signage projects?

A professional survey eliminates guesswork and sets signage projects up for success. It provides expert measurements, accurate documentation, streamlined approvals, and safe, precise installation.

Why does installation planning matter for signage projects?

Even well-designed and fabricated signs can face problems without proper planning. Thorough installation planning ensures code compliance, clear stakeholder communication, and anticipation of site challenges. This minimizes delays, reduces costs, and ensures client satisfaction.

What should be checked before installing ground signs?

Before installing ground signs, verify property lines and easements, ensure placement does not obstruct sight triangles at intersections, and always call utility locating services to avoid hitting underground gas, water, or electrical lines.

What electrical considerations are important for wall sign installations?

Wall sign installations require planning for electrical access and service clearances. Installers should verify wall materials for proper anchoring, identify power source locations, confirm voltage requirements, and ensure that circuits and access meet code compliance.

How should installation scheduling be managed?

Sign installations should be scheduled during low-traffic times, such as early mornings or weekends, to minimize disruption. Coordination with tenants and property managers should occur 24–48 hours prior, and equipment access and weather considerations must be factored in.

What role does a professional sign partner play in installations?

A professional sign partner like Plumb Signs manages pre-installation surveys, code reviews, equipment and traffic coordination, and contractor oversight. This ensures smoother installations, safety compliance, and fewer unexpected challenges.

How can Plumb Signs help with my next sign installation?

Plumb Signs provides full installation planning, including site assessments, code compliance checks, and scheduling logistics. Our team ensures your installation is safe, efficient, and compliant—saving you time, money, and stress.

ADA signage refers to signs designed in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These signs use tactile lettering, braille, high contrast, and non-glare finishes to ensure accessibility for people with visual or physical impairments.

Why is ADA signage important?

ADA signage is required by law for spaces open to the public. It ensures equal access for all individuals, improves navigation, and reduces liability while promoting inclusivity and professionalism in your environment.

Where is ADA signage required?

ADA signage is required in restrooms, exits and egress routes, permanent rooms and offices, elevators, and stairwells. Any public or commercial building typically needs multiple ADA-compliant signs throughout the facility.

What makes a sign ADA compliant?

To be ADA compliant, signs must include raised tactile characters, Grade 2 braille, high color contrast, and a non-glare finish. They must also be mounted between 48 and 60 inches from the floor on the latch side of doors for accessibility.

Can ADA signage be customized to match my brand?

Yes. ADA signage can be both compliant and visually appealing. Premium materials like acrylic, wood, or metal allow for customization with your brand’s fonts, colors, and logo while still meeting all federal and state accessibility standards.

What common mistakes cause ADA compliance issues?

Common compliance mistakes include missing braille elements, incorrect mounting height, poor contrast, and using glossy materials that cause glare. These errors can lead to violations or reduced readability for visually impaired individuals.

Does Plumb Signs provide ADA signage design and installation?

Yes. Plumb Signs offers full ADA signage solutions including planning, code review, custom design, fabrication, and professional installation at the correct height and location. Our process ensures compliance and cohesive visual design.

What is a sign code and why is it important?

A sign code is a set of regulations that control the size, location, design, and illumination of signage. Understanding these rules early ensures your sign meets all requirements, avoids permit delays, and prevents costly redesigns or removals.

Who enforces sign code regulations?

Sign codes are typically enforced by city or county planning departments, landlords or property managers, the Department of Transportation for highway-visible signs, and local building inspectors or fire marshals for illuminated signs.

What are common restrictions in sign codes?

Common restrictions include limits on sign size, height, number of signs, materials, and illumination types. Many areas also regulate color palettes and finishes to maintain consistent aesthetics within business districts or shopping centers.

What is a variance and when do I need one?

A variance is a formal request for an exception to a sign code rule, such as exceeding height or size limits. It requires documentation, a justification for the request, and official approval from the city or county planning authority.

How does sign code affect leased or tenant spaces?

Leased spaces often have additional property-specific sign guidelines established by landlords. These rules may restrict materials, lighting, or mounting types. Always verify both municipal and landlord requirements before finalizing your design.

When should I start reviewing sign code requirements?

Sign code requirements should be reviewed before design, before seeking landlord approval, and before fabrication or installation. Early planning helps prevent delays and ensures a smooth permitting and installation process.

How can Plumb Signs help with sign code compliance?

Plumb Signs provides AI-assisted code research, formal compliance reports, and hands-on permit support. Our team ensures your signage meets city, state, and property guidelines — helping you achieve fast approvals and successful installations.

Why does material selection matter in signage?

Material selection affects the look, durability, and cost of your signage. Choosing the right materials ensures your sign reflects your brand identity, withstands environmental conditions, meets your budget, and maintains long-term quality.

What are the most common exterior signage materials?

Common exterior materials include aluminum, acrylic, PVC (Sintra), ACM panels, stainless steel, and HDU. Each offers different levels of durability, appearance, and cost-effectiveness for outdoor conditions.

What materials are used for interior signage?

Interior signage often uses brushed metal laminates, painted acrylic, and layered combinations of materials to achieve professional finishes and brand-specific aesthetics suited for lobbies and offices.

How do materials influence signage budgets?

Material selection is one of the biggest cost drivers in signage. Balancing appearance, lifespan, and production efficiency allows you to control costs while achieving the desired visual impact.

What’s the difference between illuminated and non-illuminated signs?

Illuminated signs include channel letters, halo-lit, and lightbox designs that provide visibility day and night, while non-illuminated signs are simpler and more affordable, suited for daylight-only locations or interior spaces.

Types of Business Signs: A Complete Guide to Custom Signage Solutions

Signage Design

Oct 9

Written By Rob Marston

The Complete Guide to Business Sign Types | Plumb Signs

Sign Types

Published: October 9, 2025

Great signage is more than a label—it’s an experience that guides, informs, and invites.

Custom signage is one of the most powerful and cost-effective ways to build visibility, communicate clearly, and strengthen your brand across every customer touchpoint. From exterior façades to interior wayfinding, every sign plays a role in helping people find you, trust you, and remember you.

This post walks through today’s most common business sign types—what they do best, where they fit, and how Plumb Signs approaches each with design precision and engineering expertise.

Key Takeaways

Exterior signs maximize reach and visibility.
Wayfinding and ADA signage enhance accessibility and safety.
Channel letters and dimensional signs elevate brand presence.
Experiential and digital displays engage and inform audiences.

Exterior wall signage on a retail market facade

Exterior Wall Signs: turn your building into a 24/7 brand ambassador.

Exterior Signage

Your building is a 24/7 brand ambassador. Exterior signage establishes first impressions and drives recognition before a customer even walks through the door.

Wall Signs: Durable, highly visible, and customized to your façade—materials and illumination can be tailored to your long-term goals.
Monument Signs: Low-profile, permanent structures that communicate credibility and help visitors locate entries even in height-restricted zones.
Pylon Signs: Tall identifiers that provide long-range visibility along highways or shopping centers.

Monument sign installation at community facility

Monument signage delivers a confident, permanent first impression.

Wayfinding & ADA Signage

Once visitors arrive, interior signage takes over—guiding them confidently and safely.

Wayfinding Systems: Directional, informational, and regulatory signs that move people seamlessly through your space.
ADA / Code Compliance: Tactile and Braille lettering, contrast, and correct placement ensure accessibility for all.
Brand Consistency: Cohesive finishes and typography unify your environment from the lobby to the back office.

ADA-compliant restroom sign with tactile lettering and Braille

ADA signage: clarity, contrast, and correct placement keep people safe and informed.

Campus wayfinding totems and directional pylons

Wayfinding systems guide visitors from curb to counter without friction.

Technical Expertise

At Plumb Signs, we design, fabricate, and install a full spectrum of signage—from illuminated pylons and channel letters to ADA-compliant systems and experiential displays.

Our engineering team ensures every detail—structure, wiring, materials, and code compliance—meets the highest standards of safety, durability, and brand fidelity.

Channel letters (front-lit, halo, or combination)
Monument & pylon structures with LED illumination
ADA-compliant wayfinding systems (tactile/Braille, contrast, placement)
Neon & custom lighting, digital signage, and projecting blade signs

Best Practices for Effective Custom Sign Design

Designing effective custom signage is both an art and a science, blending brand strategy with real-world functionality. Whether you’re refreshing your existing signage or starting from scratch, keep the following best practices in mind to maximize impact and durability:

Prioritize Readability: Choose clear, legible fonts and high-contrast color combinations.
Align With Your Brand: Carry your logo, color palette, and core messaging through every element.
Right-Size for Location: Scale graphics and type to the viewing distance and environment.
Material Matters: Select materials that withstand your operating environment.
Lighting for Visibility: Illuminate critical signs, especially exterior branding and entrances.
Compliance and Accessibility: Incorporate ADA guidelines, Braille, and tactile graphics where required.

Remember: great signage isn’t just attractive—it’s engineered for performance, compliance, and longevity. Collaborate with a signage partner who understands both the creative and technical details for truly impactful results.

Selecting the Right Sign for Your Business

Choosing the right sign for your business is both an art and a science. It’s about reflecting your brand’s identity, making a strong first impression, and ensuring your message stands out—whether you’re nestled on a quiet street or anchored alongside national giants like Starbucks or Target.

Location Matters: Consider your environment and visibility needs.
Audience & Function: Think about who you’re reaching—directional vs. identity signage.
Brand Voice: Match tone, materials, and style to your brand personality.
Durability & Compliance: Choose materials suited to your climate and regulations.
Budget & Expansion: Plan for scalability and long-term value.

By considering these factors, you’ll land on signage that not only captures attention but truly supports your business goals.

Storefront Sign Design Tips

A storefront sign is often your handshake with the world—a chance to shape perceptions before a customer steps inside. Here’s how to get it right:

Prioritize Readability: Use large, bold text and strong contrast for visibility.
Make It On-Brand: Keep colors, logo, and tone consistent with your identity.
Use Quality Materials: Opt for weather-resistant materials like acrylic or aluminum.
Consider Illumination: Add backlighting or halo lighting for visibility at night.
Keep It Concise: Focus on your business name and purpose.
Location Matters: Install where sightlines are clear and unobstructed.

Thoughtful storefront sign design isn’t just decoration—it’s an invitation, a promise, and a powerful statement rolled into one.

Project Gallery Highlights

A few examples from our portfolio illustrate how custom signage performs across industries:

Retail: Mixed-use storefront letters for strong curb appeal.
Community: Monument signage that anchors entrances and adds credibility.
Healthcare: Interior dimensional letters for clean, professional wayfinding.