Service and Maintenance of Exterior Signage
A well-designed sign is one of the most important branding tools a business has. But like any investment, signage requires regular maintenance to continue looking sharp and performing reliably. Replacing a sign face—or worse, the entire sign—can be costly, which is why routine service and upkeep pay off in the long run.
Q: What are the most important maintenance tasks for exterior signs?
A: Cleaning is number one. Dirt, dust, and grime build up on the inside and outside of sign faces, dimming the brightness of illuminated signs and giving them a dull appearance. A basic wash can often restore clarity and brightness immediately. Another key maintenance task is bulb replacement. Whether fluorescent, neon, or LED, light sources need to be checked regularly to ensure even illumination. A single burned-out bulb can distract from your brand image and make signage appear neglected.
Q: How do colder temperatures affect signage?
A: Cold weather puts additional stress on both the sign structure and its lighting. Materials contract in low temperatures, which can lead to cracks, warping, or premature wear. Snow is another factor—while older neon lighting produced enough heat to melt light snow, today’s energy-efficient LEDs don’t. That means snow buildup can block visibility and may need to be physically removed. Regular winter inspections help catch small issues before they become expensive repairs.
Q: What role do bugs and birds play in sign maintenance?
A: Bugs are naturally drawn to lighted signage, especially in the warmer months. Over time, they can clog vents, soil sign faces, or even damage internal components. Birds present another challenge. Certain styles of signage provide ledges or nesting areas, and droppings can stain, corrode, or block portions of the sign. Routine cleaning and the installation of deterrents—such as bird spikes or netting—are smart strategies to extend sign life.
Q: Do I need to maintain my EMC (Electronic Message Center)?
A: Yes. While EMCs are built for durability, they still require regular care. Dust, dirt, and moisture can build up on the display surface, affecting brightness and readability. Periodic cleaning with proper solutions keeps the screen clear and vibrant. It’s also important to keep ventilation areas unobstructed to avoid overheating, and to check software and content settings to ensure smooth operation. Regular inspections by a service technician can extend the life of your EMC and prevent costly downtime.
Q: Why is proactive service more cost-effective than waiting for problems?
A: Signage is one of the first impressions a customer has of your business. A dim, dirty, or partially functioning sign communicates neglect. Proactive maintenance not only preserves brand image but also reduces long-term costs. For example, replacing a cracked face panel or repairing internal wiring can be significantly more expensive than regular cleaning and timely bulb changes.
