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.

Wayfinding Design Principles

Creating intuitive signage systems that guide visitors with clarity and confidence.

Start Your Wayfinding Project

A comprehensive guide to creating effective signage systems that help people navigate your space with confidence. From small businesses to multi-building properties, learn how purposeful wayfinding enhances customer experience and operational efficiency.

Clear Signage for Smooth Customer Journeys

Effective wayfinding guides visitors from their first impression to their final destination. Well-designed signage systems create intuitive pathways that enhance the customer experience while reinforcing your brand identity and professionalism.

Why Wayfinding Matters

Reduces Confusion: Clear directional cues eliminate hesitation and frustration.
Enhances Brand Image: Cohesive, professional signage reflects positively on your business.
Improves Flow & Safety: Strategic placement optimizes traffic patterns and supports compliance.
Builds Customer Trust: Confident navigation improves overall visitor experience.

Good signage is more than decoration — it’s purposeful direction that shapes how people interact with your environment.

What Is Wayfinding Signage?

Exterior directional signs: Guide visitors to entrances, parking areas, and drive-thrus
Interior identifiers: Mark restrooms, checkout areas, and service desks
Confirmation signs: Reassure visitors they’ve reached the right destination
Regulatory signs: Communicate ADA requirements, exits, and safety information

Every sign should answer: "Where am I, and where do I go next?"

Principles of Good Wayfinding

Consistency

Use unified typefaces, colors, and iconography across all signage to create a cohesive system.

Clarity

Keep messages short and direct: “Restrooms →” is more effective than long explanations.

Hierarchy

Prominent signs should mark major destinations; secondary signs should provide supportive detail.

Legibility

Ensure text is readable at the right distances and meets ADA compliance where required.

Wayfinding in Action

Here are a few examples of our wayfinding systems — from city districts to business campuses — showing how design principles translate into real-world navigation solutions.

University Place business district wayfinding signage

University Place Business District – Pedestrian-friendly wayfinding system.

Issaquah Creative District wayfinding signage

Issaquah Creative District – Bold cultural district identification signage.

Silverdale Timberland Bank – Directional signs guiding vehicle and foot traffic.

For Small Businesses: Your First Location

Opening your first brick-and-mortar location requires thoughtful wayfinding to create a professional customer experience from day one.

Help guests find the front door from the street or parking lot
Clearly label checkout, restrooms, and pickup areas
Use cohesive fonts, colors, and arrows — not random online signs
Plan the flow and anticipate where customers might need direction

For Architects & Facility Planners

Strategic Systems for Larger Spaces

Identify and map zones, floors, or destinations
Separate employee, public, and service traffic
Ensure ADA and fire code signage compliance
Plan for maintenance and future expansion

What If the Site Isn’t Built Yet?

Review Plans

We analyze site and floor plans to anticipate traffic flow and identify decision points.

Overlay Concepts

Signage concepts are placed on architectural drawings to visualize implementation.

Advise on Specifications

We recommend sign types, scale, and placement for submittal packages.

Prepare Packages

We develop conceptual signage packages for city or landlord approval processes.

💡 No building? No problem: We design signage that fits your space before it’s built, ensuring seamless integration with your architectural vision.

Our Wayfinding Process

Survey or Plan Review

On-site assessment or detailed plan review to understand existing conditions.

Flow Mapping

Analyze visitor paths, define wayfinding goals, and identify potential bottlenecks.

Layout & Messaging

Determine optimal placement and content for each sign to create intuitive navigation.

Approval Drawings

Prepare detailed documentation for review, landlord approvals, or permits.

Fabrication & Installation

Bring your wayfinding system to life with durable materials and professional installation.

Let’s Build Your Wayfinding System

Planning a new space? Improving your current one? Our team makes it easy for customers, patients, guests, or staff to move confidently through your environment.

Start Your Project Explore Our Services