From the bustling streets of Toronto to the quiet corners of small towns, monument signs create a lasting impression. Whether you’re a café owner or a corporation executive, understanding the ins and outs of these signs is key to elevating your business’s presence.
The power of a monument sign is vast, which is why it isn’t an everyday sign. Acting as a landmark, these signs become masterpieces of design and branding. In this blog, we will explore different types, design trends, and costs that monument signage offers.
WHAT ARE MONUMENT SIGNS?
Monument signs are indicators of a location, statements of identity, and symbols of permanence. They’re made from strong, durable materials, such as stone, brick, or aluminum, and are positioned at ground level, which makes them easily seen. With a sophisticated style and customizable aesthetic, these signs are excellent investments for businesses that want to show customers they are reliable, trustworthy, and professional.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF MONUMENTS SIGNS TO CHOOSE FROM
• TRADITIONAL MONUMENT SIGNS
A classic monument sign is often made of brick, stone, or concrete. They exude an air of permanence and stability, making them a popular choice for banks, government buildings, and schools.
• ILLUMINATED MONUMENT SIGNS
Want to stand out, day or night? Illuminated signs should be your go-to choice. Using LED or neon lighting, these signs are perfect for businesses that are open late, such as restaurants and gas stations.
• ARCHITECTURAL MONUMENT SIGNS
This custom designed sign is crafted to complement the architectural style of your unique building, creating a harmonious and visually appealing entrance.
• PYLON AND POLE SIGNS
As these signs are taller than the typical monument sign, they can catch the eye from a distance. These types of signs are great for shopping centers and businesses located near a highway.
• DIGITAL MONUMENT SIGNS
Embrace the modernization of technology with digital monument signage. As they are ideal for businesses that need to update their messaging regularly, these signs are often a common choice for theaters and event venues.
• DIRECTIONAL MONUMENT SIGNS
Perfect for large campuses or business parks, these wayfinding signs help visitors navigate to different locations within a large area.
• ECO-FRIENDLY MONUMENT SIGNS
If your business is focused on sustainability, these signs perfectly align with your values. Using sustainable materials and practices, these signs appeal to environmentally conscious businesses and their clientele.
• LANDSCAPING-INTEGRATED MONUMENT SIGNS
Incorporate the elements of your surrounding landscape, like shrubs and flowers, into your sign installation, seamlessly blending natural beauty with your branding.
DESIGN TRENDS TO OPTIMIZE YOUR MONUMENT SIGNS
Each trend offers a fresh way to grab attention and make your business memorable.
• KEEP IT MINIMALIST
Nowadays, less is often more. Many businesses are choosing simple, sleek designs for their monument signs, meaning fewer words, clean lines, and a focus on the essentials, such as the business name and logo.
• GO BOLD WITH COLOR
A pop of color can make your sign stand out. Businesses may choose bold hues to catch the eye of passersby, especially when these colors reflect their brand identity.
• CRAFT INTERACTIVE SIGNAGE
Technology is a game-changer for monument signs. Including digital screens allows businesses to change their message as needed, which is great for promotions or real-time updates. We can even make your signs interactive; for example, you can easily provide onlookers with a way to unlock more information by including a QR code.
• ECO-FRIENDLY SOLUTIONS
There’s a growing trend for sustainability, and monument signs aren’t left out. Companies are using recycled materials or sustainable options, like solar-powered lights, showing their commitment to the environment.
• MIXED TEXTURES AND MATERIALS
Combining different materials – like metal with wood or acrylic with stone – can elevate signs with a unique look. This mix-and-match approach adds depth and character to the sign, attracting attention.
TIPS FOR DESIGNING QUALITY MONUMENT SIGNS
• CLEAR AND READABLE TEXT
It’s essential that people can read your sign, which is why choosing fonts that are easy to read from a distance is critical. Avoid overly decorative fonts and stick to simpler styles, too, as this will increase readability. Also, ensure the size of the text is large enough to be seen from your desired distance.
• CONSISTENT BRANDING
Your sign should reflect your brand’s personality. Use your business’s colors and logo consistently to help people recognize your brand more quickly and build trust.
• SIMPLE YET IMPACTFUL DESIGNS
A cluttered sign can be overwhelming and hard to read. To keep the design simple, focus on the key message and elements. Think about what you want people to remember most about your business and highlight that clearly.
• PLAN FOR 24/7 VISIBILITY
Your sign should be visible both day and night, especially if your business is open after dark. Think about adding lighting or using reflective materials for better visibility at night.
RECOMMENDED MATERIALS FOR MONUMENT SIGNS
Choosing the right materials and design will ensure your sign makes the right statement for years to come. Explore the following materials to narrow your search:
• METAL (ALUMINUM, STEEL, BRONZE)
Metal signs are durable and create a sleek, modern aesthetic. They’re perfect for businesses aiming for a contemporary style. Aluminum is also lightweight and resistant to rust, making it a popular choice.
• ACRYLIC (OR PLEXIGLASS)
Acrylic offers a high-end look, as it resembles glass, and easily incorporates lighting, if you choose to do so. This level of versatility means it can be molded into various shapes and sizes, accommodating your brand.
• STONE AND BRICK
For a classic, elegant appearance, stone and brick are timeless choices. They’re incredibly durable, making these materials perfect for a sign that aims to convey stability and tradition.
• WOOD
Wood signs offer a natural, rustic appeal. Businesses like lodges, cafes, or stores, which foster a comfortable, inviting atmosphere, should consider how wood would bring their vision to life. However, it is important to note that this material also requires more maintenance to protect it against the elements.
• COMPOSITE MATERIALS
Composite materials can mimic the look of more expensive materials, while offering a more affordable cost and lighter weight. If your business is on a budget, this material is an excellent way to still receive a high-quality appearance.
HOW MUCH DO THESE SIGNS COST?
When it comes to the cost of monument signs, there is a wide range, as the exact cost depends on a number of factors, such as the design, materials, size, and any special features like lighting or digital elements.
If you’re looking to invest in all the bells and whistles – like digital screens or high-end materials – the price can climb up to several thousand dollars. But remember, these signs are a solid investment for your business’s visibility and branding.
FINDING MONUMENT SIGNS “NEAR ME”
A monument sign does more than identify your business; it’s an essential part of how you market your brand and tell your story. It’s about making a lasting impact, creating a memorable place, and sharing your brand’s message quickly.
While there’s a vibrant sign making scene in Toronto, choosing a local company like Insight Signs & Graphics is key. We not only support local businesses, but we also ensure that you have easy access to ongoing support and maintenance.
Give us a call today – we are ready to assist you with all your signage needs
