Signage Maintenance: Keeping Your Signs Looking New

by | May 31, 2024 | Signage

Clean and Maintain Signs

As a wholesale signage company, we understand that maintaining the pristine condition of signs is crucial for your business and your clients. Whether it’s an ADA Braille sign, a UV printed lobby graphic, or illuminated channel letters, proper maintenance can significantly extend the life and effectiveness of your signs. Here are some tips and best practices for maintaining different types of signs to ensure they always look their best.

General Maintenance Tips

  1. Regular Cleaning: Dust and dirt can accumulate on signs, dulling their appearance. Establish a regular cleaning schedule to keep them looking fresh.
  2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use mild, non-abrasive cleaning agents. Harsh chemicals can damage the sign’s surface and graphics.
  3. Inspect for Damage: Regularly check signs for any damage such as cracks, fading, or peeling. Early detection allows for timely repairs.
  4. Proper Storage: Store signs in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent warping and fading when not in use.

Maintaining ADA Braille Signs

  1. Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and water. Avoid scrubbing too hard on the raised Braille and text.
  2. Avoid Abrasives: Do not use abrasive materials or cleaners that could wear down the Braille dots.
  3. Inspect Regularly: Check for any wear on the Braille dots and raised text. Replace signs if the Braille becomes difficult to read.

Maintaining UV Printed Signs

  1. UV Protection: While UV printing is durable, additional UV protective coatings can further extend the lifespan of the signs.
  2. Avoid Direct Sunlight: If possible, position signs away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
  3. Cleaning: Use a soft cloth with water or a mild detergent. Do not use solvents or high-pressure washers that can damage the print.

Maintaining Acrylic Signs

  1. Soft Cloths Only: Use soft, non-abrasive cloths to clean acrylic signs to avoid scratches.
  2. Mild Cleaners: Use water or a mild detergent. Avoid cleaners with ammonia or alcohol.
  3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Keep acrylic signs away from extreme heat or cold to prevent cracking or warping.

Maintaining Metal Signs

  1. Rust Prevention: For outdoor metal signs, regularly check for signs of rust. Apply a rust-resistant coating if necessary.
  2. Cleaning: Use a soft brush and mild soap to clean metal signs. Avoid using steel wool or abrasive pads that can scratch the surface.
  3. Protective Coatings: Consider applying a protective coating to metal signs to guard against the elements.

Do’s and Don’ts for Sign Maintenance

Do:

  • Clean signs regularly to maintain their appearance.
  • Use soft, non-abrasive materials for cleaning.
  • Store signs properly when not in use.
  • Inspect signs frequently for damage and wear.

Don’t:

  • Use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials on signs.
  • Expose signs to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
  • Ignore signs of damage; address issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.
  • Use high-pressure washers on delicate signs.

Conclusion

Proper maintenance of signs is essential to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. By following these tips and best practices, you can keep your signs looking new and professional, reflecting well on your business and satisfying your clients. Regular cleaning, careful handling, and prompt repairs are key to maintaining the high quality of your signage products. Share these maintenance tips with your clients to help them understand the importance of proper sign care, ensuring they get the most out of their investment.

Keep your signs shining and your business thriving with these maintenance best practices!