When you need to work with a street sign manufacturer, it’s important to understand the qualities that demonstrate experience, talent and reliability. It’s the type of work that requires a good match since many sign makers specialize in certain areas. Here’s a deeper look at what you should consider when hiring a vendor that makes street signs.
Street signs, unlike regular business or event signs, must comply with strict federal guidelines established by the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). They must also follow state and local regulations. Although there is some leeway in design, most street signs used to communicate with traffic are standardized. Sign developments and requirements involving shapes, sizes, and colors have been constantly evolving since the first standards were initiated in the Great Depression years.
Your sign manufacturer must understand specific requirements for font size, dimensions, visibility, and retroreflective coating materials that enhance night visibility. This coating reflects light from vehicle headlights back to the driver, which allows the sign to shine and be seen better at night.
Although digital signs are starting to appear in some cities, the future of street signs will likely be continued improvements that make street names and other messages more visible and illuminated at night. Electronic signs have the power to give drivers additional information, such as detours or traffic news. Due to the development of modern technology, the Department of Transportation regularly updates the MUTCD.
Most street signs are made of aluminum, or other forms of metal due to its durability and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. That being said, all street signs are subject to deterioration from age, vandalism, and exposure to sunlight, which causes fading.
Some people might define “street sign” as a sign that can be seen from the street, while others may consider it to be any type of road sign, including regulatory or warning signs. In that sense, this definition may include stop signs and pedestrian crossing signs.
Regardless of the various types of signage that a street sign manufacturer works on, outdoor signs must be made of durable materials. Your sign maker must be knowledgeable of sheet aluminum and its various gauges of thickness. They must also be aware of how the surface is cleaned, deoxidized and coated with retroreflective sheetings and protective overlay laminate films.
Certain types of signs allow for customization and creative designs. If that’s what you’re looking for, the key is to work with a designer who understands your specific visions for imagery. Building a long-term relationship with a sign maker helps keep your signage consistent. Schools, apartment complexes and homeowners’ associations often have the need to post unique signs for events that happen on their properties. Customized designs are created with CAD software, which allows proofs to be sent through email.
One of the strongest qualities that a sign maker can exhibit is effective communication. Not only do they have to understand that signage is all about communication with the public, they need to be good listeners who can deliver what you ask for.
A reliable street sign manufacturer is one that can meet deadlines and deliver durable signs that meet your requirements, as well as government regulations. For more information about street signs call Zumar at our Arizona, California or Washington location.