Signs are meant to be visible, but there may be some instances where being seen is a challenge. Pylon signs—freestanding, tall signs—are the best at making your messages clear to customers, even from a greater distance. If you want to make the most out of your advertising efforts, then you need to know how to position your pylon signs to maximize visibility. Keep reading to learn how you can stand out from the crowd with pylon signs.
What is a Pylon Sign?
The humble pylon sign is one that you are likely familiar with already. Pylons are a freestanding form of outdoor signage that can come in one of two ways: single or double pole. As you can guess, single pole pylon signs stand on one support column with the sign mounted on top. The face of the sign is visible from both directions to oncoming traffic.
A double pole pylon sign is more or less the same design, except instead of one pole for support, there are two. Being that double pole signs are often more durable, they tend to be the preferred style for shopping plazas, malls, industrial parks, and anywhere else showing multiple tenants in a single area.
It is also common to see illuminated pylon signs. Often, the faces are lit internally with LED lights. This is an excellent option if you would like the name of your business visible around the clock.
How to Maximize Visibility with Pylon Signs
Want to ensure your pylon signs have the absolute best impact on your potential and returning customers? Then here is what you need to consider:
1. Choose the Correct Size
Depending on certain building codes or your location, you may not have much of a say in how big or high you get to make your pylon sign. However, your local pylon sign company will be able to tell you the maximum height and width and then make a sign fitting those dimensions. Ideally, your sign should be visible over a distance, being that your pylon sign is meant to be seen by those passing by in moving vehicles.
Be sure to include lettering that is legible and consistent with your branding. Choose fonts and colors that make sense and that do not jeopardize the message or impression your signage leaves.
2. Angle Your Sign
Although signs are best when they are visible straight on by the viewer, there are a couple of instances when the placement of your sign may alter how it is seen. For example, if there is a highway nearby, as well as a regular roadway, you may want to angle the sign so that it is visible to those traveling both roads. Otherwise, you may wish to erect a second, smaller sign for those not traveling by highway.
3. Shine a Light on Your Brand
Even if your business hours are between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, you should still consider having your pylon sign illuminated overnight. LED lighting options are low cost and do not burn out for many years, which could potentially save you hundreds on other kinds of advertising. Having your sign visible in the dark or when it is foggy or raining will have a greater impact than if it was not illuminated during these times. Furthermore, illuminated pylon signs will attract more attention than those that are not even on a sunny day. This is simply because the human eye is attracted to things that stand out.
However, there are other ways you can use lighting to your advantage. Take, for instance, shadow play. Enticing advertising takes into consideration how shadows, the angle of the sun, and the direction of lighting can alter the way something appears. Imagine having a simple pylon sign throughout the day that later casts an image in shadow on the edifice of your business overnight.
4. Get into Position
Ultimately, location is one of the biggest assets in maximizing visibility with pylon signs. Do you want to be seen? You have to choose a place that is out in the open. Sometimes, your signage may be obstructed by other buildings, trees, and other obstacles outside. Try to place the pylon sign where it will still be clearly readable.
Consider bringing in a local sign company, as they will be able to suggest a location that suits local building codes without sacrificing visibility. That may mean moving your sign forward or back by 20-30 feet, so that the line of sight remains unbroken, for example.
5. Make a Sharp Contrast
When designing your pylon sign, think about the coloring. You want colors that do not blend. Gray on black, for instance, may be very difficult to read at a distance. As such, consider choosing font colors and backgrounds that contrast. Black lettering on white is an excellent example. Since most people who see pylon signs only have a second or two to read what is visible, you want to support that effort as much as possible.
If you are unsure of which colors to use, consult with a professional signage company.
Looking For an Affordable Sign Company Near You?
There you have it: Several factors for maximizing visibility with pylon signs. Despite these tips seeming simple, they have an incredible impact on how your signage is viewed. All in all, it comes down to increasing the number of opportunities people have to see and read your sign. As long as they can do that, they will have the name of your business and location in mind.
Looking for an affordable sign company for your next project? Consider Tupp Signs. With over 90 years of experience and a skilled team of designers, fabricators, and technicians, we have all your signage needs covered. Call Tupp Signs today at 866-324-7446 for more information.