Boat Wraps: Another Advertising Billboard!
May 27, 2010
It started with wrapping boats for tournaments but it is now evolving, in true NASCAR fashion, into a significant advertising medium for corporate sponsors. In fact, professional fishermen have discovered they can do more than have a sportier boat – they can actually make money! The professional fisherman with sponsor advertising is quick to make repairs to his boat wrap before the start of the season to ensure the sponsor is happy and that he continues to receive the advertising dollars.
Some fishing tournament organizers actually mandate that the fishermen have their boats wrapped as a condition of tournament entry. As such, sponsors receive national television exposure to millions of television viewers. Even amateur fishermen are now wrapping their boats based on modeling the behavior of the professionals. One of the major boat manufacturers wraps at least 100 boats each year for tradeshows, tournaments and other events.
Whatever the reason, boat wrapping is catching on like wild fire and there has been a surge in consumers having their personal boats, cars and trucks wrapped. If you own a boat, airplane or RV and you’re thinking about dressing it up for the season, call the folks at SignWorks at 510-357-2000! Our design staff and master certified installer are sure to do an excellent job for you.
Things to Know Before You Wrap Your Boat!
May 25, 2010
Although many of the same vehicle wrap principles apply to wrapping a boat, there are some differences that should be considered. The materials that are used for a vehicle wrap may fail if used in a marine application. It is therefore important to consider things like whether the boat is being used in salt or fresh water and at what speeds, because these considerations can have an impact of the installation.
There are some generalized boat wrap templates, but these pale in comparison to the digital automobile library templates. Therefore, taking accurate measurements becomes even more important in wrapping a boat. Boats may appear flat to the naked eye, but they are not. Extra materials are typically needed because the bow of the boat will flare out towards the bottom.
Selecting the right material is critical. At SignWorks we recommend repositionable vs. air egress vinyl. Unfortunately, if air egress vinyl is used and not properly sealed, water can get into the channel and cause the graphic to fail. We also recommend removing hardware, like handles and I-hooks on the back for towing, as well as the rub rail that runs all the way around the perimeter of the boat. It’s also a good idea to pull out existing factory silicone then reseal the areas with new silicone after the wrap to get a nice tight seal. Also, it’s not a good idea to use vinyl below the water line, as it will start to lift along the edges over time.
Contact SignWorks at 510-357-2000 before the boating season heats up. We will work with you to create sizzling graphics that are sure to “float your boat!” (Pun intended).
Vehicle Wraps Have Some Great Benefits!
May 20, 2010
Vehicle wraps and graphics are not only used for advertising but by car enthusiasts who want to create a truly unique look. Everything from truly artistic renderings to the latest in matte black, matte white or even custom matte colors! In fact, there are a few distinct benefits to choosing a matte vinyl wrap over new paint:
- A matte vinyl vehicle wrap will actually protect your OEM paint and is 100% removable. So, why bother spending money on an aftermarket paint job that will devalue your investment.
- A comparable painted matte finish costs considerably more than a vinyl vehicle wrap.
- When properly cared for a vinyl vehicle wrap will wear as well as, if not better than paint.
- You can choose any color, even a custom one, in matte or in a gloss finish!
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At SignWorks, we use only the highest quality vehicle wrap materials – top quality 3M and Avery print media, vinyl and laminates, and top-of-the line printing on our Roland wide format printer. We also use specialty vinyls such as Carbon Fiber to create unique eye-catching visual effects on most cars, including exotics. You can rest assured SignWorks will expertly wrap your car, truck, boat, or aircraft. Call us for your free quote! 510-357-2000.
Vehicle Wraps: Using Templates For Best “Fit”
May 18, 2010
I attended a luncheon recently and had the privilege of sitting with a wonderful designer who complained that designing vehicle wraps was not for the faint of heart. She mentioned taking meticulous measurements which consumed lots of time. My response was, “Why?” The SignWorks approach for full car wraps is to purchase a vehicle template specific to the customer’s vehicle make, year and model. This allows our design staff to accurately set-up the design parameters for the specific automobile based on its year, make and model. It ensures that the design will be a good “fit” for the specific vehicle because accurate measurements become an integral part of the design process itself.
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While a vehicle graphics design can be constructed as a series of decals positioned on the automobile to look like a full vehicle wrap, if the entire automobile is being wrapped, it is best to obtain the specific template. This minimizes design positioning mistakes and ensures a more professional and finished look that is less subject to measurement errors. It saves lots of time, and contributes to a streamlined and efficient design process.
Window And Storefront Lettering
May 13, 2010
Window and storefront lettering allows retailers to communicate effectively with their customers. It can be used to tell customers simple things like your hours of operation or, when punctuated with a logo and company name, used to establish a brand identity. The optimal sizing usually follows the 80/20 rule meaning that you should multiply the total width (whether it’s a glass door or full window) by .8 to determine the optimal size. The size you choose is important because if the lettering is too small your customers will be unable to read it from a distance, and if it’s too large it will look over done and out of place.
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Although vinyl lettering and decals are considered permanent signage and lasts as long as the glass, the fact is that vinyl lettering and decals are removal which is an added plus. This flexibility allows the retailer to change or update hours of operation if they change, as well as make subtle changes to the messaging in the event that the previously referenced product offering expands or contracts. Vinyl lettering can also be used to highlight a special promotional offer. Working with the design staff at SignWorks and assessing our extensive font library means that you can have a unique lettering look that lets you and your business stand out!
Commercial Signage: A Lesson In Lettering
May 11, 2010
We were recently approached by an apartment complex to install and replace the exterior lettering, spelling out the name and street number of the complex. What we noticed during the site inspection was that the previously selected lettering was not suitable for exterior use! The old lettering was Styrene mounted to a foam backing. While this may have been appropriate as a cost effective alternative to acrylic or pvc dimensional lettering for interior use, this type of lettering is not suited for outdoor use. These products do not hold up well when exposed to the outdoor elements and are not suitable for the exterior of a building.
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We observed that over the years the styrene had separated from the foam, and while several attempts to extend the life of the lettering had occurred, including glue, duct tape and other similar stop-gap measures, the original materials should never have been proposed for exterior use in the first place. The lesson here is that the sign company you are working with needs to be knowledgeable enough to guide you regarding material selection. As is true in most things, it is important to use the right materials for the job and to extend the life of the sign by selecting materials accordingly. It’s far better to pick the appropriate materials in the first place than to have to replace the sign prematurely. Question: Why buy the sign twice?
Commercial Sign Company Functions & Performance Metrics
May 6, 2010
Your business sign is your primary and best opportunity to communicate with your potential customers about the products and services you offer. Consequently, your signs must be effectively designed, well manufactured and correctly installed to optimize your message.
From a business perspective, you should not view your sign as an expense, but rather as an investment. Even though you pay for it once, with proper maintenance your sign will last for years and will give you an excellent return on your investment.
With this investment approach in mind, selecting the right sign company should take into consideration the five primary functions offered by most sign companies:
• Sign Design
a good design will generally begin with a survey of your location and building, or an analysis of the architectural design. This will include traffic volumes and patterns where appropriate, as well as visibility considerations. Visibility, readability (and conspicuity) are important considerations. If the readability is low the sign becomes little more than a street address.
When blended with your company name and logo, and the architectural design of your building, the sign should reflect your marketing plan and the street presence that is unique to your business. If you don’t have a logo or unique type style, your sign company’s designers will help you develop one that you can use throughout your business and with other advertising media to reinforce or “brand” your business.
The sign should be large enough for customers to read, react, and stop safely at your location. Make sure your sign is designed for maximum “branding” potential so as to influence a purchase, as well as compliment your locations architecture.
• Permitting
your sign company will usually obtain the necessary sign and electrical permits, except when there are unique local governmental conditions. When variances are required, you and your sign company can work together in presenting your needs to the appropriate officials as needed for approvals.
In many communities your sign company must be a licensed contractor in order for them to obtain the permits if they are required.
• Manufacturing
Make sure that your signs are constructed to conform to local and national codes and standards. This is essential to ensure that your sign is indeed a long lasting asset. Good workmanship is a must.
Visit the prospective sign company and be sure to look at the condition of their factory and the quality of the product they build. Ask for references, and look at other signs they’ve built in the local community. Talk to the business owners about the signs they have purchased from the company you are thinking of purchasing from. Drive around your area looking for attractive signs and if you find one you like, ask the business owner where they purchased their sign. When purchasing an electrical sign, ask if it is UL listed.
It can take 6-8 weeks to complete certain types of signs, depending on the size and type of signs you choose. Be patient, design, production and installation of signs does not happen overnight. Begin your company and sign selection very early in your business setup process.
• Installation
Sign installation often requires specialized equipment and is a major component associated with selecting a sign company. As mentioned in “Permitting”, communities often require that the sign company be licensed before the installation permit can be issued. Safety is essential. Be sure that the sign company and their installers are appropriately insured to work at your property or you will be assuming liability for their crews’ safety practices.
• Sign Maintenance
a sign is a visual device so make sure customers can clearly read your signs. Be sure that your sign company is able to keep the sign in good condition. Were they engineered for economical maintenance? Do they have the equipment needed to perform ongoing or periodic service? Ask these questions and make sure you get answers.
It’s hard not to focus primarily on price. However, if you do, you’re likely to purchase a lower quality product with limited life expectancy – a product that will convey a poor image to potential customers. Make sure you invest the right amount of time and carefully consider all these things before making your selection.
Designing, permitting, manufacturing, installing and maintaining a sign is complex. If it’s not done properly, you will not be communicating effectively and could lose potential customers.
Choosing the Right Sign Company
May 4, 2010
The process of getting a sign made is relatively simple, however, making sure that the sign is effective and positively impacts your business’ income and contributes to the bottom line is a different story. There are many types of signs and sign designs so it is very important to understand the types of companies, signs and services available from the sign company you select. There are many kinds of sign companies and many types of signs. Plus, the level of services offered can vary drastically.
For example a full service company offering complete assistance with your business sign will come to your location and do a complete survey of your needs. They may even perform traffic or readership surveys to assist in understanding and predicting the return you’ll realize on your sign investment. They may analyze your building, understand the city’s ordinances and codes, and obtain the necessary building or other permits for you. They may also help you select the type of sign that will work best for your business, while working within your budget. They will design, build and install your sign, as well as provide ongoing maintenance and sign service.
In some cases there may not be a full service sign company in your area, or you may choose not to use a full service for a variety of reasons, including the cost. You may opt to perform some of the services yourself or to hire the appropriate professionals.
Some sign companies will choose to specialize in specific types of signs, so if you’re not working with a full service company be certain to research the city ordinances to determine what types of signs are allowed at your business location.
There are five primary functions most sign companies will be able to perform. These are:
• Sign Design
• Permitting
• Manufacturing
• Installation
• Sign Maintenance
We will review these topics in more detail in a follow-on article.
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