Investing in a sign for your business, school, or organization is a significant decision that enhances visibility and reinforces your brand identity. Once your sign is installed, it’s natural to wonder if it will require maintenance and, if so, what kind of upkeep might be involved. The answer depends on the type of sign, its materials, and environmental factors. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand sign maintenance.
1. Illuminated Signs
Illuminated signs, such as Main ID Signs, Main ID Signs w/ Electronic Message Centers, and Channel Letters, often require occasional maintenance to keep them functioning optimally and looking brand new.
- LED Maintenance: LEDs are energy-efficient and long-lasting, but they can occasionally fail. Replacing a single diode or module is usually straightforward.
- Wiring Checks: Electrical connections should be inspected periodically to ensure consistent power flow.
- Cleaning: Dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate on the light panels, reducing visibility. Cleaning with a non-abrasive cleaner helps maintain brightness.
2. Non-Illuminated Signs
Signs without internal lighting–such as dimensional letters, vinyl graphics, or architectural post panel signs–typically have lower maintenance needs.
- Cleaning: Periodic cleaning with a mild soap and water prevents dirt buildup and keeps the sign looking sharp.
- Surface Inspection: Look for peeling vinyl, faded paint, or rust on metal components and address these issues promptly.
3. Digital Signs
Digital signs, such as scoreboards or message boards, combine electronics and software, which require specific upkeep:
- Software Updates: Our Electronic Message Centers are equipped with a system that automatically preforms software updates to ensure your sign is operating at its best.
- LED Panels: A number of LED panels are what make up the “screen” of electronic message centers. On rare occasions, an LED panel may malfunction and need replaced. It’s best to contact our team as soon as possible so we can replace it to keep your sign looking great!
- General Troubleshooting: Sometimes, weather or power outages can play a part in causing some technical issues for your sign. Usually in these cases, it’s best to attempt turning the breaker off for 5 minutes and then turning it back on to give the sign a hard restart. In the event this doesn’t address the issue, contact our team as soon as possible and one of our trained teammates will help you get your sign back up and running perfectly!
4. Environmental Considerations
Outdoor signs are exposed to the elements, which can influence maintenance frequency.
- Weather Damage: Hail, wind, and extreme temperatures may cause wear. Inspect the sign after severe weather events.
- UV Protection: While all of our products are layered with a UV-resistant material, signs that continuously face the sun generally have a shorter lifespan than signs that don’t. Consider this when discussing sign design options with your sign company.
- Pest Control: While pests aren’t typically an issue for completely enclosed signs, channel letters are where we normally find birds nesting. If you notice a nest and would rather not attempt to remove it yourself, contact our team and we’ll send one of our teammates out to remove it for you.
5. Regular Inspections
Scheduling regular inspections can catch potential issues early. During these checks, our team will:
- Test electrical components.
- Check for structural stability.
- Address cosmetic wear and tear.
6. Manufacturer and Installer Warranties
Many signs come with warranties that cover specific maintenance needs. Be sure to review your warranty with your account manager to understand what is included and take advantage of covered services.
7. Professional vs. DIY Maintenance
While some basic tasks like cleaning can be done by your team, more complex issues–such as electrical repairs or structural adjustments–should be handled by professionals. Hiring our team ensures safety, preserves the sign’s integrity, and extends its lifespan.
Yes, your sign will likely require maintenance, but the extent depends on its type, location, and materials. Regular care not only keeps your sign looking great but also ensures it continues to attract attention and serve its purpose effectively. At Green Sign Company, we offer maintenance services tailored to your sign’s specific needs, so you can focus on your business while we keep your signage in top condition.