Southern California Sign Blog

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.

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.

What style channel letter are you looking for?  Here are some examples of the most common channel letters for your information. 

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

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Here are a few helpful items. Some of LED illumination's potential advantages over neon are:
• LED is less fragile. Neon tubes are much more susceptible to breakage both in transit and during installation.
• LED can mean a lower utility bill for you. LED is a more efficient light source, and the electrical transformer is smaller.
• LED is a more focused light source. An LED module produces a "cone" of light, where neon illumination is emitted from all sides of the neon tube (this can also be a disadvantage for LED, as noted below.)
• Installation of an LED channel letter signs can be easier, as it does not always require conduit on the secondary side.
• LED is a more environmentally friendly product. Neon tubes often contain mercury.
• LED is safer to install, service and maintain. LED is typically powered by 12 volts DC, where neon is powered by 4,000 - 15,000 volts AC. The high voltages required by neon present a significantly higher electrical hazard potential.
However, with all of these differences, neon still has its place. Here is where neon illumination can be better:
• Neon illumination has a certain warm glow that many think LED has yet to match. This is particularly true for reverse and front/back lit channel letter signs. Neon's 360 degree illumination is very easy on the eyes when used with front/back lit letters. LED's focused "light cone" is not as good with these letter types.
• Some custom colors can be better matched with neon. If your client is concerned about a specific color match (such as a logo color), neon may be a better choice.
• Open face channel letter signs still require neon - LED is not yet a viable option.
So, the short answer to "which illumination source is better?" is that it all depends on the project at hand. LED and neon are completely different illumination sources, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

If you have any questions or for further information, please contact The Sign Studio (818) 843-9200 or info@signstudiola.com.

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If you are looking for signage or even thinking of adding or replacing new or old signage, prepare a checklist after reviewing our "Letter Visibility Chart?"

Have you ever wondered what the readable distance for maximum impact is?  Have you ever wondered what the maximum readable distance is?  Is the maximum impact of reading time important to you (length of time letters are readable when moving?)  Have you looked over or discussed color combinations that have proven the most effective and the easiest to read? 

Remember, a good color selection can dramatically increase readability, especially when at a distance.   

Before you make any decisions, please review our "Letter Visibility Chart" and if you are confused or have any questions, please give us a call at The Sign Studio (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net.  Need Quote.

TRAFFIC SIGNS AND PARKING SIGNS - For Your Safety and Direction.  Custom or Standard.

Traffic signs provide proper safety messaging and direction throughout your roadways and parking lots. Parking Signs maintain an organized and regulated parking lot. Parking Signs make it easy to provide specific directions and eliminate confusion. Traffic signs and Parking signs improve safety, prevent accidents and post your policies. Depending on what your needs are, you may want to consider reflective, high-intensity or engineer-grade made out of aluminum, steel or polyethylene.   

HOW TO MAKE YOUR TRAFFIC SIGN LAST LONGER -

All traffic and parking signs from all manufacturers are basically made from the same materials - steel, aluminum or plastic.  These materials are susceptible to:

  - Fading from sun damage
  - Rust from rain and mist
  - Cracking from the cold winds
  - Graffiti from vandals

This can be prevented with a special, unique topcoat called Duroshield.  Duroshield is a tedlar laminate on top of the vinyl sign face which is adhered to the sign's raw material.  This special laminate is so tough that it is able to stand up to the harshest weather conditions and chemicals.  The topcoat is graffiti-resistant blocking solvents and chemicals, allowing graffiti to clean right off and never damage the sign face. 

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

NEED A QUOTE

U.S. & California Flags
Both Perma-Nylon and Koralex II material may be used for both indoor and outdoor use. 

PERMA-NYLON -
This Heavyweight DuPont Nylon is the most versatile and longest lasting nylon flag fabric available.  PERMA-NYLON'S combination of strength and brillant display, along with its quick-drying ability, make it suitable for a wide range of applications.  Great in rainy areas, its light-weight and close weave enable it to fly in the slightest breeze, giving the fullest visual effect. 

KORALEX II -
Koralex represents new and improved flag fabric technology.  Made of 100% spun polyester, its 2x2 ply construction combnines durability, strength and flyability with a rich feel and look.  These flags are ideal for extreme weather conditions without the excess weight.  Ideal for high wind areas and for daily flying.

If you have any further questions or would like to order any flags, please contact thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net or give us a call at (818) 843-9200.

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As an example, how important would a free-standing pylon sign be to your business? McDonald’s says that on average simply changing a monument sign in front of one of their stores to a pylon sign increases their store’s
business 15%. A Whataburger that was unhappy with their new store’s volume removed their brand-new pylon sign and installed one 40% larger and taller. The store’s volume immediately increased 23%.

Again quoting Small Business Administration research, 89% of businesses that fail do so because of improper signage!

Stated differently, good signage gives a business an almost 90% probability of success.

The SBA says that an LED Message Center increases store volume 15 - 150%.

Purchasing the right signs for the job helps a business survive by bringing higher returns.

We can help, so long as your landlord and the City understand the importance of good signage and allow you to
install signs that will help your business. Unfortunately this isn't always true. Choose your location(s) wisely (and
receive your landlord's approval of your signage package BEFORE you sign your lease.)

And remember the axiom “Location, Location, Location!” The supreme importance of “location” is the numbers of
potential customers that will see your sign...and be able to read and understand it. Very important design and
marketing considerations.

Surprisingly 30% of traffic on almost all business streets occurs when it is dark; people see your sign only if it is
lighted when it is dark out, including on dark days when everyone else's sign is lighted.

With 18.6% of the entire US population moving each year, your sign will be constantly seen by MANY potentially new customers.

Your sign forms that very important “first impression” your potential customer has of your business. Your sign must always look nearly as good as it looked the day it was installed so that you don’t give potential customers a worsening
impression of your business as your sign ages.

Later you will discover how we make each sign to last; including the use of rust-proof metal, high-end automotive paint, high-impact plastics, and most importantly, sophisticated Protective Coatings. .)

If you have any questions or need any help with your signage needs, please contact us at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net or (818) 843-9200. 

Guide to Using Outdoor Signs

There are a variety of outdoor signs you can use to promote your business. Depending on your budget, some options are more feasible than others. The type of business you're in will also impact your choice. You'll need to familiarize yourself with the different problems that may arise when it comes to advertising your specific business.

You may own a service business that is hard to advertise because you don't have a storefront. Perhaps your business gets lots of drive-by traffic at night and you'd like to tap into that. Or maybe your target market is hard to reach because you sell luxury goods or an unsought product or service. There are business signs that can help with all of these situations:

1. Use yard signs to advertise your service business. This type of outdoor signage is placed in the yards of customers around town.

2. Consider using outdoor signs to help potential customers notice your building. By putting up a lighted sign, people will notice you at night and in bad weather.

3. Reach specific target markets en masse by using large commercial outdoor signs. Billboards and similar types of signs yield high visibility.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done.  Contact The Sign Studio for a Quote or give The Sign Studio  (818) 843-9200 a call and we will send our Consultant out to meet with you or come to our Studio Showroom for samples located at 831 N. Hollywood Way, Burbank, CA 91505.

Use customized outdoor signs to spread your name around town

Yard signs work best for folks with service businesses. Roofers, landscapers, lawn services, real estate agents and construction contractors can all benefit from the use of yard signs. Whenever you've done a job you're proud of, ask the customer if you can stick a small sign in his yard for a short period of time. This will draw the attention of neighbors and visitors, thus, increasing the possibility that you'll get some new clients. If you buy these signs in bulk, you may qualify for a quantity discount. Note that the outdoor sign holders usually come separately from the signs themselves.

Brighten your business with an outdoor lighted sign

While your business may not be open at night, late-night passersby will take notice of signs that are lit during these hours. Also, inclement weather may make your sign less visible at times, especially during heavy rain or fog. Use these signs to draw attention to your business and set it apart from the others. Lighted signs can be in the form of expensive LED signage or a more basic backlit sign mounted to the facade of your building.

Appeal to the masses with large-format outdoor advertising signs

Billboards are likely strategically placed around your city and its nearby highways. You can actually reach your target audience en masse this way. Find some billboards in areas of your town that are highly trafficked by members of your target market. For example, if you specialize in high-end dermatology services, putting your ad on a billboard near a country club might be effective. On the other hand, if you're a bail bondsman, taking out a billboard located in a high-crime area or near the county jail may get you some new customers.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

•  If you plan on staying in one business location for years, consider installing an architectural outdoor sign. These are usually made from stone, brick or concrete and have a more professional look to them as opposed to neon lights or brightly colored channel letters. You can mount these signs to your building, but they also come in freestanding styles.

Estimate your expenditures for commercial outdoor signs.

Signage is one of the best ways to promote your business. Outdoor signs not only let people know who you are and where you're located, but they also help enhance your brand. These signs should include your logo and business name and possibly your store's hours and phone number. You can also advertise specials and display information for potential customers.

The pricing and costs of outdoor signs can vary wildly. There are so many different types of signs, so it's best to figure out what your needs are before you start shopping. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Where do I need to put outdoor signage? You can put signs directly on your building, on your sidewalk, on a pole or in a grassy area.

2. How much can I afford? Establishing a budget is an important step to take before looking for the right business signage.

3. Do I need for customers to be able to find my business at night? If so, an outdoor lighted sign is your best bet.

If you need a quote, please fill out our request form or call The Sign Studio (818) 843-9200.

Put yourself in the position of the customers you are trying to attract to your business. Think about walking through the mall and the stores that you’re likely to stop and shop in. There are the regular stops, those places where you normally purchase an item or two, and there are stores you’ve been to before, had a horrible experience in, and will never go back to. Somewhere in between, there are a few dozen places that you’ve never frequented and you only have time to visit one or two of them. Sound familiar?

How do you decide which of the unexplored establishments will be blessed with your presence? You probably don’t know much about them, so you’re making your decision based on the outside appearance. In other words, you’re going to pick the sign and store front that you like the best and walk through that door. That’s how powerful colorful signage is. It will bring in new customers who know absolutely nothing about you.

If you are the type of business that survives on foot traffic, your sign is perhaps the most important advertising you do. You can advertise with print media, television, radio, internet, coupon books, and direct mail, but nothing is more powerful than a colorful custom sign with great graphics. If you’re a service or retail business that needs people to come in and shop to be successful, there is no better investment than a new sign. Look at the outside of your shop and put yourself back in the position of the consumer again. Would you walk through your door?

Competition is fierce today and pool of paying customers is a lot smaller in many industries. Disposable income has been scarce for the past two years. Even as spending begins to pick up again, the average consumer is much more intelligent and careful about where they invest their hard-earned dollars. Your edge over your competitors could be something as simple as your sign graphics. Think back to that trip to the mall. You need those first-time browsers to choose your door when they only have time for one or two more stops. Do you think they will?

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done.  Contact The Sign Studio for a Quote or give The Sign Studio  (818) 843-9200 a call and we will send our Consultant out to meet with you or come to our Studio Showroom for samples located at 831 N. Hollywood Way, Burbank, CA 91505. You can also send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net