When you run a business, your signage is everything! It’s the first thing people see when they walk by. That’s why they need to be kept in top shape at all times. How do you maintain a storefront sign? Well, your best is establishing a maintenance routine.
There are many types of storefront signs available. Each one requires a unique maintenance routine. However, there are some elements they have in common. Here’s a comprehensive overview of storefront signage maintenance.
Importance of Storefront Signage
Damaged, flickering or faded signs are far from ideal. What does it say about you to your customers? Well, it’s a sign of neglect. People might think that you don’t care about your property or even your business since signage is a huge marketing tool. A well-maintained sign offers the following benefits:
- Reinforces Brand Trust: A faded, cracked or flickering sign can tell customers that you are struggling or careless. A well-mainteaned one shows you are still around and thriving.
- Improves Visibility: Clean, bright signs are easier to see from the street. If you want people walking or driving by to notice your business, keep your sign in top shape.
- Extends Lifespan: Taking care of your sign reduces the costly expenses that come with replacements. Maintaining your sign will help it last longer.
- Compliance: Whether you live in Calgary, Toronto or anywhere, municipalities have certain standards when it comes to signs. They have to meet certain standards when it comes to safety, illumination and appearance.
Maintaining your storefront signage is important. After all, you want to effectively communicate your message to the world. Each sign has its own maintenance requirements—we will get into those next.
Common Types of Storefront Signs and Their Maintenance Requirements
Everyone has their own preferences and no two storefront signs are the same. That’s why it’s important to understand how to maintain the one you have. Let’s review each one, so you can know what to do with your sign.
Illuminated Channel Letters
If you want to stand out at all times of the day, illuminated channel letters are the way to go. To keep them in top shape, book quarterly inspections and clean them biannually. We break down the four types of maintenance tasks below.
Visual Inspection
- Look for flickering, dim or non-functional LEDs.
- Make sure the acrylic face covers are not cracked or faded.
- Check for signs of water damage, rust or UV damage.
Electrical Check
- Test the power supply, wiring and connections.
- Confirm the timers and photo cells are working correctly (i.e. dusk-to-dawn settings).
- Replace failed transformers or LED modules.
Cleaning
- Wipe with a soft cloth with a non-abrasive, non-ammonia cleaner to clean the letter faces.
- Gently remove dust and grime from vents and housing.
Sealing & Weatherproofing
- Reseal gaps or cracks in caulking to prevent moisture entry.
- Check fasteners and mounting brackets for corrosion or looseness.
Non-Illuminated Letters & Logos
If your store is only open during the daytime, you don’t need a light-up sign. Instead, choose non-illuminated letters and logos. Get these signs inspected twice per year and clean them annually. We dive into regular maintenance tasks below.
Surface Cleaning
- Wash with mild soap and water using a sponge or microfibre cloth.
- Rise thoroughly to stop soap residue from building up.
Inspection
- Check for signs of fading, cracking or delamination on painted or vinyl graphics.
- See if the letters are firmly attached and not warping or detaching.
- Watch out for insect nests or signs of vandalism.
Touch-Up Work
- Repaint using manufacturer-approved paint of the substrate (i.e. aluminum or acrylic).
- Replace or re-apply peeling vinyl graphics.
Cabinet Signs
Despite the appearance of these signs, you shouldn’t feel boxed in. The box around your letters and graphics should be highlighted by the surrounding structure. Remember to schedule a cabinet sign inspection twice a year and clean it annually. Here are some maintenance tasks you should know about.
Lighting System
- Look for burnt-out bulbs (florescent or LED tubes).
- See if any ballasts, transformers or wiring have signs of failure overheating.
Panel Condition
- Check the sign face for yellowing, cracks or a loose fit.
- Replace aging acrylic or polycarbonate panels to keep your sign visible.
Structural Integrity
- Inspect the cabinet frame for rust, paint peeling or joint failure.
- Make sure all mountain brackets and poles are secure and rust-free.
Cleaning
- Clean inside (if accessible) and outside of panels with a non-abrasive cleaner.
- Remove insects or debris from ventilation grates and inside the cabinet if possible.
Projecting Blade Signs
Looking to capture the attention of those passing by? If you are, a projecting blade sign is the best way to do so. They stick out and light up. However, you should remember to schedule quarterly inspections and clean them biannually. How do you take care of these signs? Find out what to do below.
Structural & Mounting Check
- Look closely at the armature and brackets for rust, cracks or movement.
- See that the anchoring hardwood is secure, especially after storms or seasonal changes.
Visual Elements
- Inspect the sign for fading, damage or missing components (i.e. 3D embellishments or decorative hardware).
Lighting (if applicable)
- Check if the edge and backlighting are working.
- Repair or replace LED strips or transformers if needed.
Cleaning
- Gently wash both sides of the sign with water and mild detergent
- Never pressure wash these signs to avoid damaging vinyl or painted elements.
No matter what type of storefront sign you have, you have to maintain it. If you don’t you will suffer the consequences. We will discuss what these are next.
Issues Caused by Ignoring Sign Maintenance
Don’t forget to maintain your storefront signs. When you neglect your signs, you are going to have some problems down the line. Check out the risks you are taking below:
- Lost Customers: When your sign starts to deteriorate or look outdated, people are less likely to visit you. They might think you’re closed or feel too intimidated to come inside.
- Increased Costs: Don’t let small problems grow into bigger ones. For example, loose wiring might seem like a small problem at first, but electrical work can add up over time.
- Bylaw Fines: Faded or damaged signs put you at risk for fines. By keeping your sign in top shape, you improve your business’s image while following local regulations.
- Brand Damage: First impressions are everything. That’s why you need to make it count. Keep your sign clean and looking its best to bring in customers.
Skipping out on storefront signage maintenance does more harm than good. It’s not worth it in the long run. Between the money and damage an unmaintained sign does to your brand’s reputation, it’s not worth it.
Take Care of Your Storefront Sign Today!
With proper care and maintenance, your storefront sign can shine bright and bring in new business. How do you take care of your sign? Well, you’re going to need some help. Reach out to National Neon Signs. We know how to take care of various signs.
What are you waiting for? Contact us today!