Frequently Asked Questions

General  |  Design  |  Fabrication  |  Billing/Estimates  |  Permits  |  Installation
 

General

How do I get started?

Simply fill out the contact page here or give us a call. Let’s talk and get to know a little more about your project. We can help you through every step of the process. Want to learn about all the details?  Click here.

What drives the cost of signs?

Many factors affect the price of signage including materials, lighting, installation, engineering, etc. Establishing a budget range up front helps us to design within the proper scope.

How are you different than other sign companies?

We do not simply sell signs—we partner with our clients to achieve a successful outcome for their visual marketing needs, offering a higher level design, project management, and fabrication quality than our competitors.

Do you design and build things other than signs?

We design and build visual marketing pieces including signage as well as architectural elements, lighting and façade treatments.

Do you have a service department?

Yes. Our service technicians have decades of experience in repairs and upgrades for all types of signage.
 

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Design

I already have a design. Can you use it?

Yes, we can. We can build from your exact details or work from your napkin sketch to provide engineering and fabrication details that will develop your concept into reality.

How long does the design process take?

Simple designs can usually be developed within a week while more complex projects take more time. Our goal is to always work within your timeline, if possible.

What if I don’t have a logo?

We can assist with logo design as well as signage and architectural elements.

Will you give me options I can choose from?

Yes, we offer design packages that include several options at various budget ranges.

What if I don’t like what you design?

The design process begins as a collaborative effort which means we already have a good understanding of your goals and desires so we rarely miss the design mark by much. Reasonable adjustments to the design are an expected part of the process. Our goal is always to have a satisfied customer and a successful design.

What is vector art?

Vector art is needed to turn your logo into a sign. .jpg files are made of pixels, like a photograph, and will not work for sign fabrication. Vector art file extensions include .eps and .ai. Your graphic designer can supply you with these type of art files. To learn more click here.

Do you work with other designers/architects?

Absolutely! We always look forward to working with creative people and understand the importance of bringing design intent into reality with proper engineering and fabrication.
 

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Fabrication

Why is quality craftsmanship important?

Quality craftsmanship ensures a finished project that is safe, looks better on day one and overcomes the elements for many years. Poorly fabricated projects have uneven finishes, uneven lighting, degrade quickly and are often difficult or impossible to service.

Do you manufacture your own signs?

Yes. We are a UL certified sign shop with a team of very experienced fabricators and painters and a fully equipped shop to handle just about any project.

What is your lead time?

This really depends on the complexity of the project but the concept to installation process includes collaboration, surveys, design, permitting, fabrication, and installation which typically takes 12 to 16 weeks. Projects that do not require design or permitting are much quicker.

Can you expedite my project’s fabrication?

We are usually able to expedite a project with additional rush fees added to cover over time and expedited material acquisition costs.

Are your signs UL certified?

Yes and that ensures that we use UL listed or recognized materials and follow fabrication processes that comply with UL and the NEC code.

What materials and lighting options are best for my signs?

There are many options available for each component used in signage from substrates and fasteners to lighting. This is where an established budget guides our designers to choose the best options for your project based on aesthetics, longevity and cost.
 

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Billing/Estimates

Is there a down payment required?

We require a 50% deposit for our cash customers to begin fabrication. A design fee is collected to begin the concept design phase which is based on the scope of the project.

What payment types and options do you offer?

We accept checks and major credit cards.

Does the estimate cover all costs?

Our goal is to provide you with a “no surprise” estimate which discloses all the costs associated with your project. On rare occasions, we may encounter an unforeseen expense such as buried utilities or boulders, inaccessible crawl spaces, etc.

Another sign company quoted a lower price, can you match it?

We always appreciate the opportunity to compare our pricing with our competitors to make sure proposals are calling out the same materials and process.
 

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Permits

How long does it take to get a permit?

Once a project has design and estimate approval, the permitting process can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks or much longer in some zoning areas with design review boards or other restrictions.

How big can my signs be?

Overall sign size and height limitations are established by zoning and often calculated as a percentage of building facade or street frontage size. As part of our process we will check with local planning departments to review the allowable requirements.

Are there additional city codes I should know about?

Each municipality has its own nuances regarding sign codes from lighting restrictions to lettering height. These are considerations that are considered before we begin the design phase of your project.

Do you take care of getting a permit or is that something I can do myself?

We are happy to work with you either way, but typically we do provide the required permit drawings and acquire the permit for our clients.
 

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Installation

Do you install the signs?

Yes, we have a team of experienced installers and modern equipment to get the job done right, leaving your space clean and ready for business.

Do you install signs you don’t fabricate?

Our installation team can assist with surveys, permitting, and installation for your signage whether it's built by us or not.

Can you ship signs?

We safely crate and ship signs of all sizes throughout the US and Canada.

Can you do installations out of state?

Yes, we can. We have a network of qualified installers across the country to assist with surveys, permitting, and installations.
 

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