While some Alexandria businesses have turned to digital signage to promote their products and services, the vast majority still use banners as an economical way to reach a large audience.
Why? After all, digital signs are the latest thing and make for an impressive display.
Banners turn heads too, but compared to custom digital LED signs, banners are less expensive. They also require far less maintenance and don’t have the burden of needed, expensive repairs if damaged.
Banners come in many shapes, sizes, and formats—each with its own unique purpose. Read on to learn more about the various types of banners you can use to help promote your business, product, or service.
What are Banners?
A “banner” is a catch-all term used to describe long strips of either cloth or vinyl with graphics and lettering on them. They come with a wide variety of mounting options, such as hanging via grommets, heavy-duty 2-sided industrial tape or Velcro.
The thickness, durability, and pliability can vary as well. There are a wide variety of finishing options, including weather and UV-resistant inks and materials. When it comes time to clean off the dirt and grime, they easily wipe down with a rag and lukewarm water.
Material
There are three different types of materials that you can use for your banner:
Vinyl Banners—By far, vinyl banners are the most popular out of the three. They’re extremely durable and can withstand anything Mother Nature can throw at them. You can also easily use them indoors as well. Thanks to the rugged durability of vinyl, they’re nearly impossible to tear.
Fabric Banners—Fabric banners are often made out of satin or polyester. The very nature of fabric provides for a unique look and feel, yet still allows for vivid images and graphics to be printed on it. They’re machine washable and crease-resistant, which adds value and longevity to their lifespan.
Mesh Banners—Mesh banners have thousands of tiny little holes spaced close together. This allows the wind to pass harmlessly through without causing the banner to flutter in the wind. Mesh banners are often the go-to solution when a massive outdoor banner is required. Many construction companies and contractors will use mesh banners to obstruct the view of the job site while promoting their services through images and print.
Styles of Banners
There are many different styles of banners that you can choose from—each with its own unique advantages and benefits:
Pole Banners
Many cities use
pole signs and banners to promote an event or holiday. For example, some towns will request that citizens nominate local military soldiers to have their pictures taken and then transferred to a pole banner.
They’re then mounted on the street light poles throughout the city to show thanks for the service of the soldiers. Other cities will have holiday-themed pole banners printed up to help increase spirit and support local businesses.
Standard Banner
The words “standard banner” are a bit of a misnomer as these types of banners can be made in various lengths. They’re often rectangular in shape and can mount in all four corners.
Framed Banners
You can add a
frame to almost any kind of standard banner. This provides a more professional and permanent look and feel. It also helps cut down on fluttering from the wind and wrinkles as the material is stretched flat and securely held in place.
Step-and-Repeat Banners
A
step-and-repeat banner offers a neutral backdrop for photographers to take pictures of VIPs and other event guests. Instead of using a bland white wall, many event coordinators will opt for a branded step-and-repeat banner that allows for the efficient movement of people as they get their picture taken.
Retractable Banners
Also known as
rollup banners, they’re an easy way to display vivid, full-color images and graphics that will attract the attention of anyone who walks or drives by. At the end
of the day, they “roll up” into a sturdy metal canister and can easily fit in the back seat of your vehicle. They’re ideal for temporary signage needs, such as trade shows and limited-time sales for brick-and-mortar stores.
Banners in Alexandria and Arlington
Banners are an ideal way to get your message out to a larger audience while at the same time providing for a more professional look and feel. There are a wide variety of materials and finishing options that will allow your banner to stand up to the elements and look as new as the day you installed it.
If you’re ready to get started or would like to learn more about the real estate signage and marketing services that we offer, give the professionals at AlphaGraphics Alexandria and Arlington VA a call at (703) 549-2432 or contact us via our website.