Ultimate Guide to Customizing Various Sign Types

Creating custom signs for specific purposes like hours of operation, restroom signs, ADA-compliant signs, and more requires an understanding of design, material selection, compliance standards, and manufacturing processes. Here’s your ultimate guide for these sign categories:

1. Hours of Operation Signs

These signs are commonly displayed at storefronts, offices, or service centers to inform customers or employees of business hours.

Design Tips:

• Content: Include days of operation, opening and closing times, holidays, or special hours.
• Style: Use clear fonts like Arial or Helvetica.
• Customization: Add your logo and business colors for branding.
• Materials:
  • Acrylic: Sleek, professional look for offices or retail stores.
  • Aluminum: Durable and weather-resistant for outdoor use.
  • Vinyl Decals: Perfect for windows or glass doors.
• Mounting Options: Adhesive backing, hanging hooks, or wall screws.

Best Practices:

• Use contrasting colors for readability (e.g., black text on a white background).
• Opt for UV-resistant materials if placed outdoors.

2. Restroom Signs

Restroom signs ensure proper navigation and compliance with regulations like the ADA.

Types of Restroom Signs:

• Standard Signs: Men, Women, Unisex.
• ADA Braille Restroom Signs: Tactile text and Braille dots.
• Gender-Neutral Signs: Inclusive for all users.

Materials:

• Plastic or Acrylic: Lightweight and customizable.
• Metal (Aluminum/Steel): Durable for public spaces.
• Engraved: Text and icons engraved for long-lasting clarity.

ADA Compliance:

• Raised characters and Braille.
• High-contrast colors (e.g., white text on blue).
• Mounted at a height of 48–60 inches from the ground.

3. Bank Signs

Bank signs range from directional signage to branding and service-related information.

Common Types:

• Lobby Signs: Display bank names or logos.
• Directional Signs: Guide customers to ATMs, counters, or specific services.
• Compliance Signs: Max occupancy, fire exits, or mask mandates.

Design Tips:

• Professional Look: Use metallic finishes like brushed aluminum or engraved brass.
• Brand Colors: Match the sign to the bank’s branding.

Materials:

• Acrylic for modern offices.
• Metal for premium branding.

4. ADA-Compliant Signs

ADA signs ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities and are required in public spaces.

Requirements:

• Tactile characters and Grade 2 Braille.
• High-contrast text and backgrounds.
• Non-glare finishes for readability.
• Mounting height: 48–60 inches above the floor.

Examples:

• Room identification signs (e.g., restroom, conference room).
• Directional signs (e.g., “Exit”).

Best Materials:

• Engraved plastic or acrylic.
• UV-resistant materials for outdoor use.

5. Office Name Plates

Office name plates are used to identify employee desks, offices, or meeting rooms.

Design Options:

• Engraved or printed names and titles.
• Add company logo or department.
• Interchangeable inserts for reusable name plates.

Mounting:

• Desk stands, wall-mounted holders, or adhesive backing.

Materials:

• Brushed aluminum for a sleek, modern look.
• Acrylic or engraved plastic for affordability.

6. Office Door Plates

Door plates are ideal for labeling offices, meeting rooms, or restricted areas.

Design Features:

• Simple and professional fonts.
• Optional room numbers or department names.
• Incorporate Braille for ADA compliance.

Materials:

• Acrylic for modern offices.
• Brass or stainless steel for a premium touch.

7. Hallway Signs

Hallway signs provide directions and identify rooms or areas within a building.

Types:

• Directional signs with arrows.
• Room labels (e.g., “Conference Room”).
• Emergency exit signs.

Materials:

• Aluminum for durability.
• Acrylic for a clean, polished appearance.

Mounting:

• Ceiling-hung signs for visibility.
• Wall-mounted signs for room identification.

8. Max Occupancy Signs

These signs indicate the maximum number of people allowed in a space and are often required by building codes.

Features:

• Bold text for visibility.
• Number prominently displayed.
• Compliance with fire safety regulations.

Materials:

• Engraved plastic or acrylic.
• Metal for long-lasting use in public buildings.

9. Reception Signs

Reception signs create a welcoming first impression and communicate information like company names, directions, or visitor instructions.

Design Tips:

• Use elegant fonts and branding elements.
• Backlit or illuminated designs for added visibility.

Materials:

• Acrylic or glass for a modern, upscale look.
• Brushed aluminum for a professional appearance.

Mounting:

• Wall-mounted or freestanding.

10. Funny Office Signs

These signs add humor to office spaces, boosting morale and creating a relaxed atmosphere.

Examples:

• “Out of Office – Gone to Lunch (Forever).”
• “Work Harder! Millions on Welfare Depend on You.”
• “Caution: Genius at Work.”

Materials:

• Printed plastic or wood for affordability.
• Metal for a rustic or industrial style.

Placement:

• Common areas like break rooms or personal workspaces.

General Customization Process

1. Define Requirements:
   • Size, material, and text content.
2. Design:
   • Create a digital mockup or provide a vector file.
3. Select Material:
   • Choose based on durability and placement (indoor/outdoor).
4. Manufacturing:
   • Laser engraving, UV printing, or screen printing.
5. Proof Approval:
   • Approve a mockup before production.
6. Installation:
   • Use adhesive, screws, or standoffs for mounting.

Cost Overview

Best Practices

• Use ADA-compliant designs for public areas.
• Match sign style with your office or building theme.
• For outdoor signs, ensure materials are weatherproof and UV-resistant.

With this guide, you can confidently design, customize, and install signs that cater to your needs, whether functional, professional, or humorous.