For any business, a prominent sign is a powerful tool to grab attention and drive traffic. It's often one of the first investments a new business makes, and for good reason. However, how does a business maximize ROI with outdoor signs? In this blog, we will discuss often-overlooked expenses such as permits, maintenance, lighting, and future upgrades, and provide insights on budgeting effectively to avoid unexpected costs.
Ready to maximize your ROI with outdoor signs? AGC Signs, with over a decade of experience, is a trusted industry leader known for crafting high-quality, impactful signs. Contact us today!
1. Permits
Remember to budget for permit costs.
One of the most common hidden costs catches businesses off guard right at the beginning: permits. Every city has specific and often complex bylaws regulating the size, type, placement, and illumination of business signs.
Application Fees: Applying for a sign permit involves non-refundable fees that can vary significantly depending on the sign type and location.
Compliance Costs: You might need to adjust your initial sign design to comply with zoning regulations, setback requirements, or size restrictions, leading to unexpected redesign or material changes.
Potential Delays: The permit approval process can take time, potentially delaying your grand opening or requiring temporary signage solutions.
Enforcement and Fines: Installing a sign without the necessary permits can result in hefty fines and the forced removal of your signage, incurring significant and avoidable costs.
Budgeting Tip: Before even finalizing your sign design, research signage bylaws thoroughly.
Contact the city's planning department or consult with a reputable sign company like AGC Signs, which is well-versed in local regulations and can guide you through the permit application process, providing realistic cost estimates.
2. Maintenance and Repairs
Don’t forget to factor in maintenance and repairs into your ROI with outdoor signs.
Your sign is exposed to the elements year-round, from harsh winters with snow and ice to hot, humid summers. Over time, this exposure can lead to wear and tear, necessitating maintenance and repairs.
Cleaning: Regular cleaning is essential to keep your sign looking its best and maintain its visibility. This might involve hiring professional cleaning services, especially for larger or hard-to-reach signs.
Component Failures: Illuminated signs have electrical components like ballasts, transformers, and LEDs that can fail over time and require replacement.
Physical Damage: Wind, vandalism, or accidental damage can lead to broken sign faces, damaged lettering, or structural issues requiring professional repairs.
Fading and Wear: Over the years of exposure to UV rays, sign materials can fade or deteriorate, eventually requiring refurbishment or complete replacement.
Budgeting Tip: When thinking about your ROI with outdoor signs, factor in an annual budget for sign maintenance and repairs.
Consider the type of materials used in your sign – higher-quality, more durable materials may have a higher upfront cost but can lead to lower maintenance expenses in the long run. Obtain warranties from your sign provider and inquire about recommended maintenance schedules.
3. Lighting Costs
Choose LED lighting for a more cost efficient illuminated sign.
If your sign is illuminated – a crucial factor for nighttime visibility – you'll need to account for the ongoing costs of lighting when considering your ROI with outdoor signs.
Electricity Consumption: Traditional lighting options like fluorescent bulbs or older neon signs can consume significant amounts of electricity, leading to higher monthly utility bills.
Bulb Replacements: These older lighting technologies also require more frequent bulb replacements, adding to maintenance costs and potential disruptions.
Budgeting Tip: Opt for energy-efficient LED lighting for your illuminated signs. While the initial cost might be slightly higher, LEDs consume significantly less energy, have a much longer lifespan, and require less frequent maintenance, leading to substantial long-term savings on your business's operating expenses.
4. Future Upgrades
Digital signage offers flexibility, but as technology advances, you may need to upgrade your displays.
As your business evolves, your signage needs might also change. Consider the potential costs of future upgrades or modifications.
Rebranding: If your business undergoes a rebranding, you'll likely need to update your signage to reflect the new logo, colours, and messaging. This can involve significant design, material, and installation costs.
Expansion or Relocation: If your business expands to new locations or relocates, you'll need to factor in the cost of new signage for those premises, including permits and installation.
Technological Advancements: Digital signage offers incredible flexibility, but the technology can evolve, and you might want to upgrade your displays in the future to access new features or improved performance.
Budgeting Tip: When initially designing your sign, consider its long-term flexibility. Modular designs or digital signage options can offer more adaptability for future changes.
Have a contingency fund in your long-term business plan to accommodate potential signage upgrades or replacements.
5. Optimizing ROI with Outdoor Signs
Understanding overlooked costs can help you budget better and maximize ROI with outdoor signage.
By being aware of these often-overlooked costs associated with business signs, you can budget more effectively and make informed decisions that maximize your return on investment. Focus on:
Thorough Planning and Research: Understand local bylaws and potential long-term needs from the outset.
Investing in Quality Materials: While tempting to cut costs initially, durable materials can save you money on maintenance in the long run.
Choosing Energy-Efficient Options: LED lighting offers significant cost savings over time.
Partnering with Experienced Professionals: A reputable sign company can guide you through the entire process, from design and permitting to installation and maintenance, helping you avoid costly mistakes.
Understanding these often-overlooked costs of business signs allows you to budget more effectively and make informed decisions that maximize your ROI with outdoor signage.
AGC: Helping you maximize your ROI with outdoor signs
Looking to optimize your ROI with outdoor signs? AGC Signs is a trusted leader in the industry with over a decade of experience creating high-quality, impactful signs. We guide you through every step, from design to installation, ensuring your vision comes to life.
Creative Collaboration: Our design team works with you to develop concepts that align with your brand and goals.
Expert Craftsmanship: We use premium materials and advanced technology to craft durable, visually stunning signs.
Variety of Options: From illuminated storefronts to vehicle wraps, AGC offers a wide range of signage solutions to fit your needs and budget.
Seamless Installation & Ongoing Support: Our expert team ensures a secure, professional installation and provides ongoing support to keep your sign looking great.
Ready to elevate your business? Contact us today!
Customer Testimonials
“We found AGC Signs thanks to positive Google reviews, so now we’re paying it forward - we truly enjoyed working with Adrian and Rhonda and are extremely happy with their quality of work and customer care!”
