Southern California Sign Blog

Signs Burbank | Sign Buyer's Questionnaire

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Thu, Dec 30, 2010 @ 19:12 PM

Sign Buyer's Checklist

Here's a quick questionnaire to help identify your signage needs and guide your SIGN STUDIO  consultant in making good recommendations for your project.

??  Use of your sign:
Are you directing, informing, or selling?

??  Image you want to project:
Professional? Sophisticated? Youthful? Fun? How should it coordinate with your other graphics and advertising?

 ??  Your target customers:
Whose attention do you want to attract?

??  Viewing distance and time:
How far will readers be from the sign? How long will they have to read it? 

??  Mounting your sign:
Where will the sign be displayed? How will it be attached? Will you need the approval of a landlord or local sign code authority?

??  Display time and conditions:
Temporary or permanent? Indoors or outdoors?
 

Sign copy and layout: What message do you want to communicate in your copy? Do you have special logo or layout requirements?

For further information or questions, please give us a call at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net

Topics: burbank ca signs, signage los angeles ca, los angeles ca dimensional letters, pasadena ca dimensional signs, signs burbank ca, signs la, sign company los angeles, sign company burbank, sign company pasadena, sign company glendale, sign company west hollywood

Signs Burbank | Banner Finishing Options

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Wed, Dec 29, 2010 @ 07:12 AM

TYPICAL BANNER FINISHING OPTIONS - What will work for you?

GROMMETS:
Provide a convenient method for attaching the banner at regular points. This distributes the banner's weight and helps to keep the banner from sagging. Grommets are the most common method to hang banners.

HEMMED EDGES:
Hemmed edges are typically used to reinforce the sides of vinyl banners, helping maintain the banner's shape and prevent stretching.

POLE POCKETS:
Pole pockets allow for rigid poles to be inserted along the edges of the banner. This allows for a more even distribution of the banner's weight to prevent sagging. Opposing pole pockets can also be used to make the banner more rigid.

POWER TAPE:
Power tape reinforces the edges of shear cut banners or banners that have no material available for hemmed edges.

BANNER-UPS:
A plastic tab with eyelet attached to each corner of the banner. This creates convenient attachment points to have a banner.

D-RINGS WITH NYLON WEBBING:
D-Rings with nylon webbing are typically sewn into large banners that will hang on buildings. The D-rings allow the banner to be secured with ratchet straps.

NYLON WEBBING:
Webbing sewn into the top and bottom makes the banner stronger and significantly extends banner life. Webbing is typically used in areas subjected to higher wind loads.

If you have any questions, please give us a call at (818) 843-9200 or e-mail us at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net.

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Topics: Banner Installation, banner finishing options, grommets, banner-ups, pole pockets, nylon webbing, banner D-Rings, Banners

Signs Burbank | Dimensional Signs and Letters

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Tue, Dec 28, 2010 @ 07:12 AM

DIMENSIONAL LETTERS FOR YOU -

          Dimensional Letters and Logos provide a sophisticated, professional, and distinctive image.  Whether you're creating a simple sign on top of your headquarters or an intricate lobby display, your message deserves to stand out.  A great way to enhance the appeal of your business instantly.  Made with acrylic, wood, aluminum, PVC or a variety of sign foam to ensure of durability.  For further information or questions, please send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com or give us a call (818) 843-9200.  

 Dimensional Letters @ The Sign Studio, Burbank, CA

Topics: metal letters, dimensional signs, foam letters cut out letters, dimensional letters

Burbank Signs | Ready to Apply Vinyl Lettering Signs

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Mon, Dec 27, 2010 @ 07:12 AM

READY TO APPLY LETTERING – also known as RTA Lettering. 

If you are looking to save yourself some money and are confident in your application abilities, the following directions on how to apply your own vinyl lettering will help you to install your own signage. 

  1. Apply window cleaner, soapy water, or denatured alcohol to clean the surface where the lettering will be placed.  Use a lint-free cloth to wipe the surface dry. 
  2. Use a water-soluble pencil to draw guidelines and centerlines to help align the lettering. 
  3. Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of water and 3 drops of liquid dish detergent.
  4. Before applying, rest the lettering on a flat surface and carefully squeegee across the transfer tape that covers the bottom.
  5. Find the center of the lettering and make a small mark at that point on the transfer tape. 
  6. With the lettering face down, peel the backing paper away from the lettering, which will remain adhered to the transfer tape.
  7. Lightly spray the exposed sticky side of the lettering with the soapy water solution (if the letters are being applied to glass and are smaller than 1” in height, do not use the spray, it could cause misalignment.)  Small letters should be applied dry. 
  8. Place the lettering and transfer tape onto the surface, using any guidelines and centerlines you have made to help align the lettering.
  9. Squeegee the lettering from the center outward toward the edges, overlapping your strokes to prevent air and water from being trapped under the lettering.
  10. Leave the application tape attached to the lettering and let it dry for about one hour. 
  11. Remove the application tape.   Put the tape back at a 180-degree angle (flat) to the surface.  This will minimize the chance of the lettering being pulled up along with the tape. 

If you have any questions of need help with your Installation, please give us a call at (818) 843-9200 or e-mail us at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net

 The Sign Studio, Burbank CA, RTA signs, vinyl graphics, vinyl application, vinyl signage

Topics: ready to apply vinyl letters, vinyl lettering, RTA lettering and vinyl, vinyl signs, vinyl decals

Burbank Signs | Channel Letter Glossary

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Mon, Dec 27, 2010 @ 07:12 AM

Channel Letter Glossary - Need a quick channel letter term definition? Here are a few common ones:

Acrylic: Translucent plastic used as a channel letter face material. Acrylic is available in a wide of colors, and its thickness is typically 1/8" or 3/16".

Channel Back: Aluminum that is routed in the shape of a letter to form its backing.

Cut-off switch: Electrical switch placed on the outside of the building, usually above, below or on a channel letter signs raceway.

Drain holes: Small holes placed at the bottom of a channel letter. Drain holes permit rain and condensation to drain out of a letter's interior.

Electrode: The terminal at the end of a neon tube that connects to a GTO wire. Neon tube fabricators attach electrodes to glass tubes by melting the glass to form an airtight weld.

GTO cable: Insulated electrical wire designed for high-voltage current. GTO cables connect neon tubes.

Electrode boot: A rubber boot designed to be installed on the double back or electrode of a neon tube to protect against electrical shocks or arcing.

LED: An electronic light source for channel letters. LED stands for Light Emitting Diode, and this type of lighting is illuminated by the movement of electrons in a semiconductor material. LED Channel letters are becoming more and more popular.

Neon: Another illumination option for channel letters, neon is a luminous glass tube filled with inert gas. High voltage electricity from a transformer excites the gas to produce light. Tubes may be bent to form various shapes and letters.

Permit: A legal document required by a municipal building department that allows the installation of a specific sign at a designated location. It is illegal to erect a new sign without first obtaining the appropriate permit.

Polycarbonate back: A protective plastic insert cut to the same shape as a reverse channel letter and attached to seal the letter's back. This prevents rainwater entry and also keeps animals from nesting inside the letter. Polycarbonate backs also provide mounting surfaces for neon tube supports.

Raceway: An enclosed aluminum channel (typically 8" by 8") that spans the entire length of the letters. Channel letters are pre-installed on the raceway in the shop, thus simplifying installation in the field.

Return: The side of a channel letter. Returns are commonly constructed of aluminum, and are typically 5" deep.

Tie wire: Thin copper wire that attaches a neon tube to a tube support.

Transformer: A channel letter's high-voltage power supply. Transformers are available in various current outputs, typically ranging from 7500V to 15,000V.

Trim cap: The flexible plastic edging that surrounds a channel letter's face. Trim caps are chemically welded to the face, and are available in a variety of colors.

Tube support: A glass standoff that typically is fastened to a channel letter back to hold neon tubing in place.

UL-approved: Underwriter's Laboratories (UL) is an independent product safety certification organization. UL approval means that all sign components meet UL standards for electrical safety.

If you have any questions, please give us a call at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net

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Topics: Channel Letters, burbank ca signs, Channel Letter Signs, Illuminated Channel Letters, ul approved, trim cap, transformer, sign raceway

Burbank Signs | Trade Show Graphics Checklist

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Sun, Dec 26, 2010 @ 07:12 AM

Trade Show Graphics Checklist:

Your Sign Studio consultant knows all the tricks of the trade show.

We'll help you:

 - Create a striking design that communicates a clear message and business image.

 - Distill your product information into easy-to-read, bullet-pointed copy.

 - Choose the right color scheme that complements your logo and shows off your products.

 - Select a booth and graphic materials that are durable and lightweight for easy, affordable transport and storage.  

 - Strategically position graphics to guide traffic flow in and out of your booth space.

 - Keep your trade show booth on budget while also achieving a highly effective, professional look.

The Sign Studio has everything you need to create a powerful trade show exhibition.

Contact us at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com for assistance.

Topics: tradeshow signs, graphics for tradeshow, sign graphics for tradeshow

Signs Burbank | Effective signs for you and your business.

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Sat, Dec 25, 2010 @ 07:12 AM

Signs and graphics serve three general purposes: to inform, direct and sell. The initial impression a person has about a business is often the result of their signs and graphics. By employing effective signs and graphics, businesses of all types and sizes can make the most of that first impression.

Signs are valuable to businesses of all sizes, and in all industries. Signs help consumers become aware of a business, service or event, can help prompt purchases, change purchase decisions and build brand equity.

Signage is an inexpensive, yet very effective form of advertising. During a slow economy, advertising is crucial and it helps create a long-term competitive advantage. Maintaining an advertising presence through signs helps build long-term brand awareness.

Effective signage can also be a determining factor in influencing customers to switch from a weaker brand. What can effective signs and graphics do for you?

Contact The Sign Studio @ (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail - info@signstudiola.com.

Topics: Effective Signs, sign advice, Sign Design, sign advertising

Signs Burbank | Sign Color Chart - colors have personality

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Fri, Dec 24, 2010 @ 07:12 AM

Different colors and fonts appeal to different personalities, and if you really want signs that attract, you'll make an effort to understand to whom what color goes with your personality. Here are the most common examples and top 3 colors used:

The Sign Studio in Burbank CA - Sign Color Chart

Red:  Red is exciting and active - it suggests boldness and efficiency, and is appetite-inspiring, hence McDonald's use of red (as well as yellows and oranges).  As you can see, red especially appeals to "Emulators," or people who are sales-oriented and talkative.  Red implies urgency.

Blue:  Blue is the most widely used color in appealing to businesspeople and entrepreneurs called "Achievers."  Blue is serene, suggesting wisdom, dignity, and stability, hence the wide use of blue by banks.  Men prefer blue to red and are supposed to prefer blue to red because it is more restful to the eye.  Blue is businesslike. 

Green:  Green and other earth-tone colors appeal to the vast group called "Belongers."  These people are the "middle America" people - usually employees, family people, and definitely relationship-oriented.  They enjoy green, browns and golds.  Earth-tones are friendly. 

If you are interested in more color analysis or color combinations, please give us a call at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com

 

Topics: sign color chart, sign planning, sign colors, Sign Design

Signs Burbank | Architectural Signage

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Thu, Dec 23, 2010 @ 07:12 AM

ARCHITECTURAL SIGNAGE- does more than communicates a message. Architectural signage must also help build the brand name of the company it serves. Success depends not only on precision craftsmanship but also on cutting edge design and carefully selected materials that will best represent the finished product.

Planning for Precision and Durability

Architectural signs

Creating quality architectural signage means understanding the details and planning for the obstacles involved. The challenges are somewhat different depending on whether you are creating signage for indoor or outdoor use.The challenge on indoor signage is to have a degree of precision that is unsurpassed. With exterior signage the tolerances do not have to be quite as precise, but there are other challenges that are just as significant, such as weather conditions and environment. Interior signs are in air conditioned environments but with exterior items we have to worry about sunlight, humidity, heat, cold and so on.

Understanding How Lighting Impacts Display
Fade resistant materials are important to protect both indoor and outdoor architectural signage from the sun and understanding the impact of ambient lighting is also a key challenge.

Choosing the Right Materials for the Job
Between durability and lighting concerns, choosing the right materials for architectural signage can be a major obstacle for the novice. Avoid lower end plastic products, they look cheap.

Special Considerations in the Design Phase
The actual "look" of a sign is the focus of most everyone's attention. The primary challenges in the design phase is coming up with a look that the everyone wants and choosing materials while staying within budgets. It is important to choose materials in the design phase so that you can prepare for any special requirements, such as lighting, mounting, or curved walls.

For further Information or if you have any questions, please call The Sign Studio @ (818) 843-9200 or send an e-mail to thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net.

 

Topics: Architectural Signs, design signs, sign plans, burbank ca signs, los angeles ca signs

Signs Burbank | Banner Installation Methods

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Wed, Dec 22, 2010 @ 07:12 AM

Banner Installation Methods

Want to save money and install your own banner? If so, here are some typical banner installation methods. Banners are generally installed using one of these four methods.

The Sign Studio, Burbank, CA, Banner Installation, banner install methods, banner maintenance, banners la, banners los angeles

Topics: Banner Installation, banners los angeles ca, banners la

Burbank Signs | Sign Lettering Font Tips

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Tue, Dec 21, 2010 @ 07:12 AM

Sign Lettering Font Tips

Use simple block fonts when creating signs that need to be readable from a distance. A more stylish font may be harder to read and required to be set at a larger size. You should never set a script or cursive font in all capitals, the results will be very hard to read. Avoid using a heavy or fancy headline font for large passages of text. Use fancy lettering where type needs to draw attention to itself, such as a logo or a headline. Use more conservative looking type where items need to be subdued or merely listed, such as large areas of text, sub-headlines and items in a list. 

If you need further assistance, please call The Sign Studio (818) 843-9200 or e-mail us at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net

Topics: sign fonts, sign lettering

Burbank Signs | ADA Signs, ADA Tactile & Braille Guidelines

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Mon, Dec 20, 2010 @ 07:12 AM

ADA Tactile & Braille Signage

The ADA Tactile & Braille Signage Code is a wide-ranging civil rights law that prohibits, under certain circumstances, discrimination based on disability. The lack of accessibility or certain services can be considered discrimination, regardless of who it actually affects. This creates a need for ADA compliant signs. No individual may be discriminated against on the basis of disability with regards to the full and equal enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities, or accommodations. When the law was first put into effect, there was a problem with ADA signs not being esthetically pleasing. Now that it's been in existence for some time, the question of esthetics has been resolved and the industry faces new problems with ADA signs. We continually add articles to this section, so be sure to check back often.

ADA Guidelines
Letters can't be smaller than 5/8-inch or larger than 2 inches. All letters must be a minimum 3/32 inches thick for tactility. And, generally, you cannot use elaborate or decorative fonts. San Serif fonts, like Helvetica, are the staple of most ADA signs. It may sound restrictive, and it is at some level, but the goal is not to stifle creativity. The goal is to serve an intended audience.

While ADA guidelines define font size, contrast and other criteria, the law does not define specific design criteria as it relates to aesthetics. Letter height, Braille placement, font, and color contrast make only minimal impacts on the visual appearance. There are ways to make ADA signage more attractive while still adhering to the guidelines.

ADA Materials
ADA-compliant materials are one way to make the difference between a ho-hum sign and an attractive presentation. Sign frames with the ability to change printed inserts are another. Finally, understanding what the guidelines really say about color contrast and icons could give you more freedom than you thought. Signs can be designed and made from an amazing variety of materials ranging from basic plastics to very elaborate designs of natural stone, woods, or metals.

For further information or questions, please call The Sign Studio (818) 843-9200 or e-mail us at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net

 

Topics: ada signs; ada tactile and braille signs, ada compliant, ada sign materials

Signs Burbank | Solid Metal Letters

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Sun, Dec 19, 2010 @ 13:12 PM

SOLID METAL LETTERS - How beautiful and elegant they really are!describe the image

STAINLESS STEEL LETTERS

-          Satin Grained Face or Polished – you just can’t go wrong with the look, absolutely gorgeous! Available sizes from 1” -  48” with thicknesses that range from 1/8” – ½” / Waterjet Flat Cut from solid 304 Alloy.

ALUMINUM LETTERS

-          Satin Grained Face or Polished – Great pricing! Great look for economical prices.  Available sizes from 1” – 48” with thicknesses that range from 1/8” – ½” / Waterjet Flat Cut from Solid 5052 Alloy.

BRASS LETTERS

-          Satin Grained Face, Oxidized or Polished – Very Classy look!  Available sizes from 1” – 48” with thicknesses that range from 1/8” – ½” / Waterjet Flat Cut from Solid 260 Alloy.

COPPER LETTERS

-          Satin Grained Face,  Mirror Polished, Verde Patina – Breathtaking! Available sizes from 1” – 48” with thicknesses that range from 1/8” – ½” / Waterjet Flat Cut from Solid 110 Alloy.

For further information or quotes, please contact us at The Sign Studio (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail with your request thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net.

Topics: metal letters, aluminum letters, los angeles signs, brass and stainless letters and signs, copper signs, Burbank Signs

Los Angeles Signs | Floor Graphics, Decals & Clings

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Wed, Dec 8, 2010 @ 19:12 PM

Floor graphic advertising is a unique way to put your message in front of and under current and potential customers.

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If you advertise in a supermarket, convenience store, exhibit hall or airport, you're constantly battling other posters and signage for awareness. Why not try something unique, something that will make you stand out from your competition? With point of purchase floor graphics from The Sign Studio, you'll have a unique tool to capture your customers' interest and encourage a call to action.

Customers tend to look down as they push shopping carts or wait in line to purchase their selections and a floor graphic, or decal or cling, is an easy, cost-effective way to grab their attention. It's especially valuable in driving last minute or impulse purchases. In fact, floor graphics can increase these purchases by 10%!

The Sign Studio has been producing and printing custom floor graphics for years. We understand the industry tricks, including bold graphics, strong messaging and die-cuts, to get your floor graphic noticed. Plus, we have the printing capabilities that make your graphics durable and long-lasting, so you can reach your most important customers day after day.

Contact The Sign Studio today to discover how and what we can do for you in an effort to increase your visibility in today's competitive marketplace.  The Sign Studio - (818) 843-9200 or e-mail thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net

NEED QUOTE

Topics: Los Angeles Signs | Floor Graphics, Decals & Clings

Signs Los Angeles | Banner Installation and Maintenance

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Tue, Dec 7, 2010 @ 07:12 AM

Banners

Instructions for Banner Installation and Maintenance

Nothing can add more impact to a promotion than an attractive banner and nothing can be less effective than a poorly displayed one. All of  THE SIGN STUDIO banners are made with a durable nylon-reinforced vinyl that should last a long time when properly installed. To prevent tearing and ensure long life, follow the guidelines below.

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INSTALLATION
Banners are generally installed using one of three methods: stringing between two poles, directly mounting to a flat surface, or a combination of both.

STRINGING BETWEEN TWO POLES
When installing a banner between two poles, the main objective is to prevent an undue amount of stress on any one grommet hole. The best way to accomplish this is to hang the banner using bungee cords. Bungee cords will stretch with the banner allowing the wind to pass around the sides of the banner. Bungee cords also make the installation of your banner easier.

If you must use rope to hang your banner, follow these rules.

1. Determine how much rope is needed to tie off the banner. Be sure to give yourself a little extra length. If necessary, it can be trimmed later.

2. Weave the rope through the grommet holes from left to right (see diagram on reverse side). Do this for both the top and bottom of the banner.

3. Tie the top corners straight out and tight from the sides. Be sure the banner is centered and level before tying off the right side.

4. Tie the bottom corners at about a 15 degree angle down from the bottom edge of the banner leaving a slight amount of play in the rope. This will allow the air to escape out of the bottom of the banner.

NOTE: If the banner will be hung where it will be exposed to high winds (i.e. between two street poles), wind slits must be cut into the banner to allow air to pass through the banner.  THE SIGN STUDIO can cut these wind slits for you when they are making the banner, or you can cut them yourself. A typical wind slit is a "smiley face" half circle, about 2" to 3" in diameter. They should be spaced about 12” to 18” apart. See the diagram on the reverse side for an example. Be sure not to cut slits through your graphics.


WALL INSTALLATION ("SCREW AND WASHER" METHOD)

If the banner is to be installed directly onto a wall, install it by driving screws through the grommet holes and into the wall.

1. Determine where you want the banner to be positioned.

2. Secure the top-left corner of the banner first.

3. Continue securing the banner across the top at each grommet hole, from left to right, making sure the banner is level.

4. Secure the bottom grommets from left to right.

CAUTION: When installing a banner directly onto a building, be careful because screws will leave permanent holes in the wall. Some surfaces may also require special fasteners to prevent the screws from pulling out. Before drilling, be sure to obtain landlord or property owner approval. If you have any doubts about installing a banner directly to a wall, refer the installation to a professional installer.

CITY ORDINANCES AND LANDLORD RESTRICTIONS

Before installing a banner, investigate local sign ordinances, and ask your landlord if any restrictions apply to displaying banners. If necessary, apply for permits at the city code enforcement department.

STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE

Banners should always be stored rolled up, with the lettering and graphics to the outside. A banner should never be folded, as doing so may cause vinyl graphics to pull away from the banner. If your banner becomes dirty, it can be cleaned with a soap and water mixture. Do not use any cleaning product that contains ammonia.

EXPECTATIONS: “It has been said that an outdoor banner is a sail without a ship. Be realistic in your expectations. While a banner is an excellent promotional sign, it is not a substitute for a permanent sign."

If you have any questions, feel free to call us AT (818) 843-9200 or e-mail us at info@signstudiola.com

Topics: Signs Los Angeles | Banner Installation and Mainte, banner install, banners burbank, banners pasadena, banners glendale, hollywood banners, west hollywood signs

Los Angeles Signs | Solid Metal Letters

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Mon, Dec 6, 2010 @ 15:12 PM

SOLID METAL LETTERS - How beautiful and elegant they really are!

Metal Letters resized 600

STAINLESS STEEL LETTERS

-          Satin Grained Face or Polished – you just can’t go wrong with the look, absolutely gorgeous! Available sizes from 1” -  48” with thicknesses that range from 1/8” – ½” / Waterjet Flat Cut from solid 304 Alloy.

ALUMINUM LETTERS

-          Satin Grained Face or Polished – Great pricing! Great look for economical prices.  Available sizes from 1” – 48” with thicknesses that range from 1/8” – ½” / Waterjet Flat Cut from Solid 5052 Alloy.

BRASS LETTERS

-          Satin Grained Face, Oxidized or Polished – Very Classy look!  Available sizes from 1” – 48” with thicknesses that range from 1/8” – ½” / Waterjet Flat Cut from Solid 260 Alloy.

COPPER LETTERS

-          Satin Grained Face,  Mirror Polished, Verde Patina – Breathtaking! Available sizes from 1” – 48” with thicknesses that range from 1/8” – ½” / Waterjet Flat Cut from Solid 110 Alloy.

For further information or quotes, please contact us at The Sign Studio (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail with your request thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net.

Topics: metal letters, metal signs, aluminum letters, Los Angeles Signs | Solid Metal Letters, stainless steel letters

Los Angeles Signs | Vehicle Magnets - Care & Maintenance

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Sun, Dec 5, 2010 @ 22:12 PM

Magnetic Signs

Instructions for Magnetic Sign Installation and Maintenance

THE SIGN STUDIO uses the finest magnetic material to bring you the best in mobile magnetic advertising. Correct preparation, installation, maintenance, and storage procedures should be followed, see (Sections 1 – 4.) Following these instructions will help to ensure your satisfaction and to safeguard the long life of your signs and vehicle.  Due to the many variables and complex nature of automotive finishes, special care must be taken to protect your vehicle: check the area behind the magnetic material weekly and move the sign as necessary to prevent any discoloration or clouding of the automotive clear coat.

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  1. PREPARATION: Wash and dry vehicle. To protect your signs and vehicle, wax vehicle surface and the brown magnetic side of the sign prior to applying.
  2. INSTALLATION: Magnetic signs can only be used on smooth steel surfaces. They CANNOT be used on simulated wood-grain panels, fiberglass panels, panels that have been repaired with a non-steel filler (such as ―Bondo), or on any corrugated or other irregular surfaces. If necessary, magnetic signs can easily be cut with a razor or X-Acto knife to work around body molding or other obstructions on the vehicle. Apply one edge of the sign to the vehicle surface in the desired location then roll the sign onto the vehicle surface until the entire sign is installed flat onto the vehicle surface. If the magnetic sign is not placed in the desired position, carefully remove by reversing the installation steps and then repeat the process. (Do not try to rearrange the sign by pulling when it is stuck magnetically onto the vehicle. This might stretch the magnetic as well as scratch the vehicle paint!)

*** Note: A magnetic sign should never be applied to a newly painted vehicle. Allow at least 60 days for fresh paint to cure.

3.    REMOVAL & MAINTENANCE: Remove the signs from your vehicle weekly. Always remove the sign by lifting from the center of the two opposite sides—never start at the corners, as this may stretch the sign material. In cold weather, preheat the sign with warm water before removal, if necessary. Once the signs are removed, wash and dry the vehicle and all sign surfaces. This keeps moisture from collecting between the signs and the vehicle surface, which can potentially damage a vehicle’s finish. To clean the signs, use a sponge and a mild soapy water solution. Never immerse the signs in water, steam clean, or take them through a car wash. A generous coat of wax on the surface where the sign is placed and on the back of the sign itself will help prevent damage. After rain or snowfall, remove signs and wipe dry.

4.    STORAGE: Magnetic signs should be stored either on a flat, even surface, or rolled up (lettering to the outside) around a cylinder with a diameter of at least 3”. Never store magnetic signs in a hot vehicle, as they may permanently warp. Do not damage signs by folding, creasing , or placing any heavy objects on top of them. This type of treatment will prevent the signs from retaining their full magnetic power. If a sign does get bent out of shape, you can try to straighten it by placing it on a flat metal surface, such as a file cabinet or refrigerator. If you cannot straighten the sign, it will need to be replaced. WARNING: Automotive finishes and protectants vary by manufacturer; changes in color, shade, and surface appearance can occur with time, daily usage, and exposure to direct, intense sunlight. For care of your automotive finish, please refer to your vehicles Owner’s Manual.

Please give us a call at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com if you have any further questions.

Topics: Los Angeles Signs | Vehicle Magnets - Care & Maint, vehicle signs, business identification signs, Logo Design, Vehicle Advertising