First impressions are crucial in business, and signage is key to establishing your brand. Whether it’s indoor or outdoor, signage effectively communicates your brand to the market. By maintaining your signs, you invest in visibility and brand consistency, which is essential for attracting new customers throughout the Salt Lake Valley. If your signs aren’t in top shape, you risk missing potential business. Let's explore why sign maintenance is critical and how to keep your signage looking its best.
Why You Should Maintain Your Signs
New research from the University of Cincinnati found that businesses with high-quality signs attract more new customers. Furthermore, 75% of people say the first thing they notice about an unfamiliar business is its signage. Damaged or dirty signs can turn away potential customers. Below are some key reasons to prioritize maintaining your signs.
Brand Recognition & Consistency
Your signs are a visual symbol of your brand, so keeping them in good condition ensures customers see you as professional and reliable. Worn-out or neglected signage can harm your brand image, making your business appear unprofessional and fade into the sea of competitors. Consistent branding across all signage reinforces your business identity, helping customers recognize and trust your brand. In contrast, damaged or dirty signs can create a fragmented image, which can confuse customers and weaken your market presence.
Street Visibility & Walk-In Traffic
Exterior signage is vital for attracting foot traffic and passing customers in Salt Lake City. A clean, well-lit sign grabs attention, especially in busy areas. Eye-catching signage can be the deciding factor between a customer visiting your business or choosing a competitor. Signs that are clear and well-maintained make your business visible around the clock, indicating that you're open and ready to serve. Moveable signage like A-frames or flags can be used as indicators of your hours of operation, sales, or daily specials. In contrast, faded, broken, or unlit signs can make it harder for people to find you and may detract from your overall image. If you’re considering sidewalk signage, take into consideration your building’s location and surroundings as you don’t want to impede foot traffic or encroach on neighboring businesses.
Functionality & Cost Efficiency
Signs come in many forms, and some include mechanical elements that require maintenance to function well. Neglecting regular upkeep increases the risk of these signs breaking, resulting in costly repairs or replacements. Signs that showcase your services or products also help generate revenue by informing customers of what you offer. Therefore, maintaining your signs can prevent unexpected costs and keep your business running smoothly.
Signage Maintenance Best Practices
Proactive maintenance saves both time and money over reactive repairs. However, maintenance routines depend on the sign's materials and placement. Some signs may need daily cleaning, while others can be checked monthly. With the rapidly-changing weather conditions around the Salt Lake Valley, it’s important to stay aware of your signage’s physical condition both to maintain its appearance and prevent possible damage that could become dangerous to employees and customers.
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Implement a Cleaning Schedule: Exterior signs can quickly become dirty from foot traffic or exposure to the elements. Dirty signs can make it harder for customers to notice you. A daily cleaning routine for your signs ensures your business always looks welcoming and professional.
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Routine Inspections: In addition to cleaning, routine inspections ensure that every aspect of your signs is working as it should. Include all mechanical components, like stands or hinges, in your inspection. For instance, if you have window graphics, a regular inspection keeps them clean and attractive, maximizing their impact. Add monthly checks to your routine or ask your cleaning service to look out for any issues.
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Prioritize Proper Storage: If you have removable signs, storing them properly can prevent weather or vandalism damage. For outdoor signs, consider bringing them inside after hours. Indoor signs may need to be stored away from direct sunlight to avoid fading.
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Consider Your Lighting: Lighting is essential to showcase your signage after dark. If your sign is in excellent condition but poorly lit, it won’t serve its purpose effectively. Proper lighting complements your signage and boosts visibility.
AlphaGraphics: Your Source for Signage & Marketing Materials
If you’re ready to upgrade or add signage, AlphaGraphics Salt Lake City can help. We provide customized marketing materials and digital marketing support to enhance brand awareness. Visit our location and our friendly sales and design teams will be happy to help you begin to create your perfect signage. Not sure what you need? Check out our range of building signs and find the best option for you.