Boise, ID – Sign Making 101: How Construction Signs are Produced | Sign Shop New

When most people think of construction signs, they imagine big, yellow road signs with black letters. However, there is much more to construction signs than just those typical highway markers.

Substrates

No matter what type of construction sign is produced, the process begins with the substrate.

The substrate is the base material on which the sign is printed. For construction signs, various substrates are used, including corrugated plastic, aluminum, and PVC.

The type of substrate chosen will depend on several factors, including the intended use of the sign, the budget, and the production timeframe.

For example, aluminum substrates are more expensive than corrugated plastic but are also more durable and have a longer lifespan. This makes them a good choice for construction signs exposed to the weather on job sites.

On the other hand, PVC substrates are less expensive than aluminum but less durable. They are a good choice for shorter-term outdoor applications.

Cutting and Finishing

Once the substrate has been selected, it is cut to the desired shape and size. This is done with a computer-controlled cutting machine such as a CNC router or a laser cutter. Making these cuts with a precision machine gives the finished sign clean and precise edges.

After the substrate has been cut to size, it is then finished with any required treatments. Aluminum signs, for instance, are anodized to protect them from the elements.

Construction signs may also be printed with vinyl lettering and graphics. This is a popular choice for adding company logos, websites, and other branding elements to the signs.

Some construction signs may also need to be printed with special inks to glow in the dark, reflect light, or change color in the presence of UV light.

Finally, construction signs are typically coated with a clear laminate. This protects the sign from UV rays, scratches, and other wear and tear which may occur.

Designing Construction Signs

• Keep it simple – When it comes to construction signs, less is usually more. Stick to one or two colors and use large, easy-to-read letters.
• Include essential information – Be sure to include the name of the company, contact information, and any other important details where required.
• Make it eye-catching – Use bright colors and bold fonts to make highly visible signs. This assists in keeping people safe.

At FASTSIGNS® of Boise, ID, we work with companies in various industries to make custom sign packages. Call us today for more information.