The questions to the right will help you visualize and decide on appropriate signage for your business or organization.

Signage is the single most important advertising that you do. It directs traffic to your business, projects a company image, and most importantly, it lasts longer than any other type of advertising.

 

About labour costs

Labour generally consists of 60-75% of any job. A sign that takes longer to make and install will cost more than a sign with more expensive materials.

About logos

If you have a logo to include on your sign, or would you like one designed? If you have a logo already, send it to us! Acceptable file formats on disk or by e-mail are:

For cut-only files:
CorelDraw (.cdr), Corel Presentation (.cmx), Adobe Illustrator (.ai, .pdf), Plot files (.plt), Auto Cad (.dxf), and Encapsulated Postscript (.eps)

For full colour print files and photos:
Adobe Photoshop (.psd, .pdf, .jpg), TIFF (.tif), Bitmap (.bmp)




1st Signs is a 1st Group Company

Step 1: What is the signage for?

  • Is it location signage? Is it directional signage?
  • Is it to notify or for safety awareness? How important is readability?

Step 2: Where is it going?

  • Is it going onto storefront glass? A vehicle? Or is it a freestanding sign?
  • Is it indoors or outdoors? Is there direct exposure to the sun or elements?
  • Does it need to be seen at night (Reflective vinyl is recommenced for night signage)

Step 3: Is it temporary or permanent?

  • How long will it be used for?
  • Does it need to be removable?

Step 4: What is your budget?

  • How long will the sign be used for? (Cost-time effectiveness)
  • Is there full-color printing or special materials required? (Budget more for these)
  • Do you have a logo on disk or a good reproduction that is easily scanable? (This will decrease the amount of setup time, saving you money)
  • Does it need to be installed? Is it difficult to install? Do you need a bucket or other special equipment to reach the sign? Does it need to be wired? (Installation fees can increase signage costs considerably - budget accordingly, or install yourself and save money)

Step 5: Other things to consider

  • When does it need to be done by? Is the time frame realistic? (Rush jobs can sometimes add additional cost if other jobs need to be stopped to accommodate short time frames)