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.
Bottom Line:
Just like vehicles or HVAC systems, signs need ongoing service. Routine cleaning, seasonal inspections, and quick fixes keep signage looking fresh and performing reliably— protecting your investment while ensuring your business continues to shine.
Seasonal Sign Maintenance Checklist
Spring
Refresh & Inspect
- Wash the sign faces inside and out to remove winter grime and salt.
- Inspect for cracks, warping, or damage caused by cold weather.
- Replace any dim or burned-out bulbs. Check for moisture intrusion in cabinets or electrical compone
Fall
Prep for Cold Weather
- Do a deep clean before temperatures drop.
- Replace aging bulbs—cold temps stress old components.
- Seal gaps to prevent water intrusion that can freeze and expand.
- Trim nearby trees or branches that may cause damage during storms
Summer
Defend Against Heat & Pests
- Inspect for fading from UV exposure.
- Clean out bug buildup around vents and inside cabinets.
- Look for bird nests or droppings that can stain or corrode.
- Ensure cooling systems or vents are clear for illuminated s
Winter
Monitor & Maintain
- Remove snow and ice buildup blocking visibility.
- Inspect regularly for cracks from material contraction.
- Clear off LED-lit signs since they don’t produce enough heat to melt snow.
- Watch for flickering lights, which may worsen in cold temps
Contact Us:
Customgraphicsinc.com
701-237-5685
Instagram | @customgraphicsinc
Facebook | @Customgraphicsfargo
2501 3rd Ave N, Fargo, ND 58102
