Your sign is often the first invitation customers receive to do business with you. It lets them know who you are, where you are, and what you have to offer. Your sign represents your brand, your business, and—well, you.
Naturally, you want to keep your sign in tip-top condition. That’s why regular seasonal maintenance is so important. Just like maintaining your vehicle, spring and fall are typically the best times to prepare signage for more extreme temperatures and weather during the summer and winter seasons.
SEASONS CLEANINGS!
A good place to start effective sign maintenance is regular seasonal cleanings. Dust, dirt, pollen, and—let’s face it—bird doo—doo doesn’t all get washed away in the rain. Buildup can make your sign look worn, hazy, and drab.
A soft cloth and a little soap and water can often work wonders. Try to use a mild soap and avoid cleaning solutions that contain abrasive substances or harsh chemicals.
After it’s clean, give your sign a good rinse to avoid leaving any soapy residue.
PROTECT IT
After your sign is clean and dry, consider applying a sealant that matches its material. Whether your signage is made of wood, acrylic, aluminum, or another type of material, a proper sealant can help protect against moisture and sun damage.
INSPECT IT
Regular inspections can also help preserve the look and function of your signage. At the very least, you should inspect your sign annually for chipped paint, loose parts, exposed wiring, lighting problems, or other damage that could lead to functionality or even safety concerns.
Also, be sure to check the stability and structure of your sign and mounting hardware.
FIX IT
Many small fixes can be done yourself.
Tightening loose bolts, screws, stabilizers, or other small components can usually be done with a socket wrench, a pair of pliers, or screwdrivers.
Minor scratches, chipped paint, or even tiny rust spots can easily be repaired, repainted, or replaced, and burnt-out bulbs or LEDs can often be changed out with relative ease.
CALL IN A PRO
When is it time to call a pro? When signs need electrical repairs, complicated structural repairs, or if your sign is in a hard-to-reach or high-risk area, it’s a good idea to have work done by a professional installer.
Also, if it’s been several years since your sign was cleaned or if you don’t know what materials comprise it, it’s a good idea to call a sign professional. They’ll know which cleaning techniques, solutions, and sealants are right for your sign.
Whether it’s been a few months or a few years since you’ve looked at your sign, starting a regular care-and-maintenance routine can help revive the look of your signage. Start now, and keep your sign looking great for years to come!