Free-Standing Signs
Single & Double-Sided
These free-standing signs are A simple and relatively economical alternative for tight budgets. They’re designed to be viewed from either a north & south or east & west direction. Typically supported by a wood, metal, or concrete frame. free-standing signs are custom built to fit desired sign size and elevation (subject to sign bylaw restrictions). The image can be directly printed on certain substrates like corrugated plastic, MDO plywood, aluminum composite panels or onto exterior grade vinyl applied to a variety of materials.
An optional aspect of these signs is Returns. Returns are small extensions of the signage or “flanks” on each side. These allow additional information or images to be seen while not directly in front of the sign and are a good spot to restate the development name, websites, phone numbers, etc.
Corner Signs
Corner signs allow for multiple graphic facings, viewable from different angles. They are known to be usually quite large to grab attention. Like single and double-sided signs, corner signs are typically supported by a wood, metal, or concrete frame custom built to fit desired sign size and elevation. Corner signs can also be printed on the same substrates.
Panel/Perimeter Hoarding
When it comes to Panel/Perimeter Hoarding they sometimes span an entire block depending on the frontage of the property. The wall of graphics is composed of one or more adjoined graphic panels and is ideal for sites with lots of frontage, or a perimeter in need of graphic facing. The hoarding is typically supported by a wooden frame. Generally, hoardings use the same substrates as free-standing signs. While a direct to substrate print is more economical, a vinyl-wrapped substrate is generally ideal for longevity.
Banners
Mesh Banners
Mesh banners are ideal for construction sites with temporary site fencing systems. The Mesh allows wind to pass through holes, avoiding the“sail” effect and overall decreasing the wind load. It's also important to know the mesh isn’t intended for intricate or highly detailed art as the details could be cut away. These banners are to be custom-fitted to temporary fencing system panels (Modu- Loc, Super Save, Yellow Fence Rentals, Maple Leaf, etc.) or chain link fencing. These can be printed on vinyl or nylon mesh and are available in different colours, however, only standard white mesh is generally printable.
Vinyl Banners
Vinyl banners are ideal for many applications as it’s very versatile and can be used in many different locations. Compared to the mesh banners you can get a higher level of detail and sharper image with vinyl banners because there are no holes. These signs are designed to be hung in the air, suspended by rope/string through grommets. They can be affixed to almost anything and are usually grommeted every 18 inches. As for substrates, there are various vinyl weights and sheens available, too many to list here.
Eco-Friendly
This Eco-Friendly method is ideal for applications where light doesn’t pass through the back of the print (i.e., walls). For best results, The photo used should be of high contrast so that it doesn't appear faded. It’s a recyclable, Non-woven PET banner with a textured, matte surface made from post-consumer waste.
Wayfinding Signs
A-Frames
These signs are extremely simple and easy to set up, move around and store. There are many different uses for A-frames, like to direct traffic, advertising, and wayfinding. A-frames are typically made out of wood but sometimes plastic. The designs are printed directly to the substrate, sometimes they're printed on vinyl and then applied to the wood/plastic/metal frame.
Corrugated Plastic
Corrugated plastic signs are lightweight, waterproof, recyclable, and stain-resistant. These are very common and extremely popular as they’re relatively inexpensive. The most conventional frame is the “H” wire stand. There are different variations of this, some including an extra “step” so that the frame can be more easily put into the ground by foot. These signs are made of corrugated polypropylene plastic, commonly known as chloroplast.
Insider Tips to Extend Life of Signs
Extra Durability and Abrasion Resistance
You can have a protective clear coat varnish applied to your signage but this is only an option for rigid signs. Keep in mind that few print companies can offer this because it requires specialized screen printing equipment. This coating is also not suitable for all substrates so you should talk to your print partner to see if they offer this or if this is a good idea for the substrate of your choice.
Graffiti Resistance
If graffiti is what you’re worried about, you can have an anti-graffiti overlaminate applied to certain surfaces. With this protective layer, graffiti easily wipes off the surface of your sign.
However, anti-graffiti material has its limits. There is a certain window of time spray paints and inks can be safely wiped off without damaging the sign.