How to Decide on Outdoor Signage Size

Did you know that nearly 76% of customers enter a store they’ve never visited before simply because of an outdoor sign that caught their attention? Have you ever driven past a business and instantly thought, ‘I need to stop there’? That’s the power of a great sign. But how do you make yours unmissable? This guide covers the science of outdoor signage, giving you the tools to stand out and drive customers through your door.  We explore the nuances of outdoor sign sizing, encompassing factors like location, audience, design, and regulations. And letter height recommendations based on the psychological impact of design choices, this article combines practical tips and research-backed strategies to help businesses make informed decisions about their outdoor signage. From branding signage to business signs, choosing the right size can transform visibility and elevate brand recognition.

Let’s explore together the facets of points to consider when deciding on outdoor signage.

Key Takeaway Points:

• Consider Distance and Speed: Larger signs are essential for high-speed traffic areas. For instance, a 6-inch letter height works well for speeds up to 35 mph, while 15-inch letters are ideal for faster highways.

• Visibility from Angles: Position your sign where it can be easily seen from multiple angles. Ensure that trees, buildings, or other structures don’t obstruct the view of your sign.

• Location in Relation to Parking: Use clear and concise signage to guide customers to parking areas. Consider the distance between the parking lot and the main entrance when determining sign size and placement.

• Tailored Sizing for Businesses: Different businesses require varied sign sizes based on needs and branding. For retail use large, eye-catching signs to attract customers from a distance. And restaurants can consider using menu boards or digital signage to display daily specials and promotions.

• Regulations and Visibility: Familiarize yourself with local sign ordinances and permit requirements. Ensure your sign complies with building codes and safety regulations. If your business is located in a historic district, consult with local authorities to ensure compliance with preservation guidelines.

What message does your sign send from 30 feet away? Is it clear, or are you losing customers without realizing it?

Chanel Letters Outdoor Sign 

What’s the Secret to Perfect Outdoor Signage Sizing?

• Height and Distance: Take into consideration the height and distance at which your sign will be read. Consider your sign’s height and distance from the viewer. A sign at eye level offers instant clarity, while one 30 feet high on a building requires larger dimensions for readability. Pylon signs need even bigger lettering to capture attention from afar. Research suggests that letter height should increase by one inch for every 25 feet of viewing distance (Howett, 2017). Studies suggest that optimal luminance and contrast, as noted by Forbes et al. (1976), significantly improve readability in varying light conditions, especially for tall pylon signs.

ISA sign viewing minimum distance to size suggestions for outdoor sign sizes.

• Traffic Speed: Factor in the speed of passing traffic when designing your sign. The faster the traffic, the bigger the message needs to be to ensure legibility from an optimal distance. Monument signs are excellent for increasing visibility in high-traffic areas.

• Visibility from Different Angles: Reflect on how well your sign can be seen from various angles. Ideally, your signage should catch the eyes of oncoming traffic before they pass by, allowing impulse buyers to consider stopping without needing to turn around.

• Location in Relation to Parking Area: Think about where your parking area is located. Is your sign visible before the turn, or does it come into view too late? Strategic placement ensures customers never miss their way. Our work in areas like Beverly Hills shows how strategic placement improves parking lot navigation.

Choosing between pylon signs and monument signs often depends on the viewing distance and site layout.

LED internal lit Channel Letters outdoor sign 

Choosing Effective Outdoor Signage: A Guide for Different Businesses

Choosing the right size for your outdoor sign could be the difference between a customer walking through your door — or walking right past. Let’s make sure your business stands out. When selecting outdoor signage, various businesses must carefully weigh their specific needs and preferences. Let’s look into what each type of business should consider:

1. Retail Stores

• Visibility, Branding, and Product Promotion:
  • What size and placement will maximize visibility? How can the sign reflect the brand’s identity? Will it be illuminated for nighttime visibility?
  • A larger sign near eye level is best for visibility. The sign’s design should align with the store’s branding. Adding LED lights ensures visibility at night.

2. Restaurants
   • Consideration: Menu Display, Ambiance, and Weather Resistance:
     • Should the sign showcase the menu? What materials will withstand weather conditions? Will it complement the restaurant’s theme?
     • Displaying a concise menu can attract passing customers. Opt for durable materials like acrylic or metal. The sign’s design should match the restaurant’s style.
     • Imagine driving through a busy intersection. You notice a bright, bold sign that instantly grabs your attention. Without it, you might have driven past without a second thought. For instance, a boutique clothing store in Pasadena saw a 20% increase in foot traffic after incorporating illuminated 3D signs with high-contrast colors and bold lettering.

3. Hotels
   • Visibility, Information Dissemination, and Aesthetics
     • Where should the sign be placed for maximum exposure? Should it include directions to various facilities? How can the sign enhance the hotel’s overall aesthetic?
     • A sign near the entrance is crucial. Including clear directional information and a map can be helpful. The sign’s design should harmonize with the hotel’s decor.

4. Real Estate
   • Property Details, Contact Information, and Durability
     • How can the sign effectively display property features? Is the contact information legible? What materials will endure various weather conditions?
     • Use a sign with enough space to highlight key property features. Large, bold text ensures legibility from a distance. Durable materials like aluminum can withstand outdoor conditions.

5. Event Venues
   • Directions, Event Promotion, and Temporary Installation
     • How can the signage guide attendees to different areas? What’s the best way to showcase upcoming events? Can the signage be easily set up and taken down for various occasions?
     • Clear directional arrows and signs at intersections help attendees find their way. Incorporate event imagery and dates to promote upcoming occasions. Consider banners that are easy to assemble and disassemble.

6. Service Providers
   • Professionalism, Information Conveyance, and Longevity
     • How can the sign convey trust and expertise? What information should it include? Will the sign’s appearance withstand the test of time?
     • Use a clean and professional design to convey trustworthiness. Include essential services and contact details. Opt for high-quality materials to ensure the sign’s longevity.

Ultimately, all these businesses aim to select signage that resonates with their brand, effectively communicates their messages, captures their target audience’s attention, and can endure the challenges of outdoor exposure. Custom designed signs tailored for commercial signage not only serve as permanent advertising but also establish a strong brand presence. By carefully considering design, material, size, location, and budget, they can make informed choices that align with their unique requirements. For tall pylon signs or illuminated channel letters, choices for visibility are crucial.

Painted sign for large areas 

How to Choose the Right Size for Your Outdoor Sign

Picking the ideal size for your outdoor sign is a crucial decision with far-reaching effects on its impact and effectiveness. Here are some helpful pointers to assist you in selecting the right size for your outdoor sign based on your objectives, budget, and space constraints:

1. Measure the Space: Start by measuring the area where you intend to place the sign. A tape measure or ruler will suffice for gauging the width and height. This measurement provides a basis for determining the maximum size achievable.

2. Define Your Objectives: Tailor the sign’s size to your goals. For distant attention-grabbing, a larger sign might be more impactful. Conversely, if you need to convey intricate details, a smaller sign with additional text could be more fitting.

3. Mind Your Budget: Keep in mind that size affects cost. Generally, larger signs come with a higher price tag. Strive to balance your size choice with your budget, ensuring it aligns with your objectives.

4. Factor in Space Limits: Beyond dimensions, account for any spatial constraints near the intended sign location. Trees or obstacles might necessitate opting for a smaller sign to guarantee visibility.

Remember, the size of your outdoor sign profoundly influences its efficacy. Bigger signs tend to grab attention from a distance, but they can be costlier and unsuitable for every location. Meanwhile, smaller signs are budget-friendly and information-rich, though they might not catch the eye as well from afar.

Window graphics perforated for interior benefit 

Best Practices for Outdoor Sign Design and Sizing

A small bakery struggled to attract customers until they revamped their outdoor sign with bold, illuminated letters. Curious how it turned out? Their foot traffic increased by 40% in just two months, proving the power of thoughtful signage design. When crafting and sizing an outdoor sign, adhering to best practices is essential to ensure its appeal, readability, and memorability. According to research, warm colors like red and orange evoke excitement, while cool tones like blue and green convey trust and professionalism. Typography also plays a critical role — sans-serif fonts are easier to read at a distance, enhancing clarity and brand perception. Here are guidelines to help you select the optimal fonts, colors, images, and layouts for your outdoor sign, all tailored to your brand identity, message, and audience preferences: 

• Readability First: Prioritize legibility at a distance. Opt for a clear font, avoiding ornate scripts or overly thin/bold styles. As per the International Sign Association, use letters at least one inch (1″) taller for every twenty-five feet (25′) of viewing distance.

• Color Choice: Opt for high-contrast, easily readable colors. Steer clear of shades that are too alike or blend into the backdrop. To stand out, consider the International Sign Association’s recommendation to juxtapose warm and cool colors or employ color blocking.

• Image Selection: If including images, ensure they’re clear and relevant to your brand. Avoid busy visuals that might divert attention from your sign’s core message.

• Simplicity in Layout: Keep the sign layout uncluttered. Avoid overwhelming it with excessive info or images. Make the most critical details stand out prominently.

Howett (2017) emphasizes that letter width and stroke contrast directly impact readability, particularly in outdoor environments with varying lighting. For example, a retail store in Los Angeles saw a 25% increase in foot traffic after switching to larger, high-contrast signage that incorporated bold colors and LED illumination.

Viewing angle, height and distance outdoors are important factors 

Outdoor Sign Size Regulations and Standards for Different Businesses

Understanding local zoning laws is crucial. For example, Pedro et al. (2011) highlight how permit timelines and regulations vary widely by region, with approval times ranging from 25 to 100 days. Planning ahead can help businesses avoid costly delays. While regulations might limit sign height or placement in certain zones, collaborating with signage experts ensures compliance without compromising on visibility. In California, local ordinances often prioritize safety and aesthetic harmony, requiring businesses to balance visibility with community standards.

Retail Stores

• Check local zoning laws to determine the permitted sign size, especially in commercial areas.
• Different jurisdictions may limit the sign’s height to avoid obstructing sightlines or restrict illuminated signs in residential zones.
• Violations could result in fines, removal orders, or legal action. To avoid this, research and adhere to the specific regulations.

Restaurants

• Consider both municipal regulations and shopping center guidelines if applicable.
• Some areas might limit sign projection to avoid encroachment on sidewalks, while malls may have specific rules on sign size and placement.
• Non-compliance might lead to sign removal or fines. To stay within the regulations, consult with both local authorities and the property owner.

Hotels

• Check height restrictions and architectural guidelines set by the local government or property management.
• Certain areas might enforce maximum sign area to prevent visual clutter, while historic districts could have stricter design constraints.
• Ignoring regulations could result in penalties or sign removal. To comply, collaborate with the relevant authorities and maintain a clear line of communication.

Real Estate

• Research local ordinances on sign size and placement, especially in residential neighborhoods.
• Regulations might dictate the maximum size of “For Sale” signs and the distance they must be from the property.
• Violations could lead to fines or removal. Ensure compliance by understanding the local rules and communicating with clients effectively.

Event Venues

• Understand both city and event venue regulations regarding temporary signage.
• Some cities might limit the size and duration of event signs, while venues may have specific guidelines for event-related advertising.
• Non-compliance might lead to sign removal during the event or post-event penalties. To avoid issues, plan ahead and secure the necessary permits.

Service Providers

• Research local ordinances to determine appropriate sign size and placement for professional services.
• Certain areas could restrict the size of signs for service providers like clinics or law firms.
• Disregarding regulations could result in fines or removal. Prioritize compliance by consulting with local authorities and updating signage as needed.

By understanding and adhering to outdoor sign size regulations and standards, businesses can avoid legal issues, fines, and disruptions to their operations. It’s essential to research the specific regulations in their area and consult with relevant authorities or property managers to ensure their signage aligns with local requirements. Emerging technologies like LED and digital signage are redefining outdoor advertising. These advancements offer dynamic content displays, greater energy efficiency, and real-time updates, making them ideal for businesses looking to stand out in competitive markets.

Monument sign for visual landmarks 

Tips for Optimizing Outdoor Sign Visibility and Readability for Different Businesses

Chooses vary in every industry but opting for energy-efficient lighting not only reduces environmental impact but also aligns with consumer preferences for eco-conscious brands. Let’s look at the tips per commercial sector:

Retail Stores

• Ensure the sign is well-lit, using backlighting or spotlights to illuminate it at night.
• Use high-contrast colors for text and background to improve readability.
• Create a mock-up of the sign and evaluate it at different times of day to ensure visibility under varying lighting conditions.

Restaurants

• Employ soft, warm lighting that complements the restaurant’s ambiance without causing glare.
• Opt for contrasting colors that make the menu items stand out against the background.
• Simulate the menu sign’s lighting and evaluate its readability from different angles to ensure it’s legible for diners.

Hotels

• Illuminate the sign to make it visible even during nighttime arrivals.
• Use a color scheme that contrasts with the sign’s background for clear visibility.
• Use simulations to determine the sign’s visibility from various points around the entrance to ensure guests can easily find it.

Real Estate

• Consider solar-powered lights to keep the sign visible after dark.
• Choose colors that contrast well against the property’s surroundings for readability.
• Display a mock-up of the sign near the property and gauge its visibility from a distance to potential buyers.

Event Venues

• Illuminate event signage using bright and focused lighting to ensure visibility from a distance.
• Select high-contrast colors for event details to make them pop.
• Conduct surveys with potential attendees using signage mock-ups to gather feedback on visibility and readability.

Service Providers

• Illuminate the sign with a balanced lighting setup that doesn’t cause glare.
• Use a combination of colors that enhance readability and professionalism.
• Create a simulation of the sign’s placement and lighting to gauge how well it can be seen by passersby.

Maintaining Visibility and Readability

• Regular Cleaning: Keep the sign clean and free from dirt, dust, and debris that could obscure visibility.
• Timely Repairs: Address any damages promptly to ensure the sign remains intact and legible.
• Periodic Replacement: If the sign deteriorates or becomes less visible over time, consider replacing it to maintain its effectiveness.

By considering lighting, contrast, spacing, alignment, and orientation, businesses can ensure that their outdoor signage effectively captures the attention of their target audience and conveys the intended message clearly. As technology evolves, so do opportunities for creative and impactful signage solutions. Discover how effective signage can elevate your brand and attract more customers. Stay ahead of the curve with cutting-edge designs and strategies tailored to your needs. Regular testing and maintenance help sustain the sign’s impact over time. 

Dimensional letter sign custom designed to suit your needs 

Contact Us For Assistance With Your Outdoor Sign 

From choosing the right size and placement to understanding local regulations, effective outdoor signage requires careful planning and expertise. Outdoor sign sizing is a blend of science and art. It impacts visibility, legibility, and overall impact. By factoring in location, speed, angles, and regulations, businesses can design signs that effectively engage their target audience, convey messages, and contribute to brand recognition. Remember, a well-designed and appropriately sized outdoor sign is a powerful asset in the world of visual communication. 

How many potential customers are passing by your business unnoticed simply because your sign isn’t optimized? Don’t leave your signage to chance — partner with experts who understand the science of visibility and branding. Contact Premium Sign Solutions for a free consultation, and let’s design a sign that drives results for your business. Contact us for assistance. Our team will gladly help you with full-service signage solutions. 

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