You know you need a sign, but what kind of sign? Here are the core sign types you need to know to get you started.

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We already tackled why you need a high-quality business sign in this post, 5 Core Reasons Why Good Signage Is Critical to Your Business Strategy. Among other things, they have the power to reinforce your brand, serve as cost-effective marketing tools, and demonstrate your commitment to creating a quality product. So what type of sign (or combination of signs) would best serve your business? It can be hard to define what you need when chatting with a custom sign-making company if you simply don’t have the proper vocabulary. What follows is just a smattering of core types to consider if looking for fresh signage.

Outdoor Wall Signs

Perhaps one of the most common sign types out there, wall signs are usually hanging business signs that are displayed flat on the exterior of a business and come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and materials (acrylic, wood, metal, etc.). They can also be illuminated from within (what is known as a lightbox sign), from behind, or from installed lights that shine on the sign.

Cut Vinyl Graphics & Decals for Windows, Floors, Vehicles, Indoor Signage, and Exhibits

Also referred to as stickers and decals, cut vinyl graphics are images or lettering that is cut out of self-adhesive vinyl and then installed on a storefront window, car window, and interior office space, as well as regularly used in museum or art gallery exhibits. They can be frosted, opaque, or perforated, and, when used in an outdoor setting, are able to withstand the elements from sun, wind, and rain.

Outdoor Lighted Business Signs

There are a lot of types of lighted signs out there – and for good reason: Their biggest benefit being that they can be lit 24/7, maximizing your business’s visibility and making your sign one that is hard to ignore. A few of the most common types include lightbox signs, neon signs, custom LED business signs, digital signs, and lit channel letter signs.

Awning or Canopy Signs

You may think the main purpose of an awning or canopy is to block the sun or divert water, but in a commercial space, they can also serve as a highly visual place to display your business name or logo and various services, plus attract attention to your business’s entrance.

Blade Signs

These types of signs are usually mounted to a wall, column, or pole on the exterior of a building and face perpendicular to the traffic – for that reason, they are usually double-sided. They are often used to complement wall signs and awnings and are ideal choices for tight shopping areas as they do not require a lot of space on the storefront, plus they are effective at targeting shoppers walking along the sidewalk.

Pylon Signs

Also known as pole signs or freestanding signs, pylon signs are another type of outdoor sign that is usually mounted on one or two poles on the property of a business (not attached to a building). They can be single-sided or double-sided and are often lit.

Banners

Custom vinyl banners may be one of the most convenient sign types: Used for a variety of purposes, they are long-lasting, easy to install, and portable. They can be placed pretty much anywhere inside or outside your business’s location and are commonly used in trade show displays.

A-Frame Signs

Also known as sidewalk signs, these types of foldable signs are portable and typically used for sidewalk advertising. They can be made from a variety of materials and are often double-sided. As they are not usually permanently placed, they are a popular way to display timely announcements related to discounts or offers for your business.

Digitally Printed Large-Format Graphics, Murals & Wraps

Large format graphics can be installed on floors, ceilings, and walls; in trade show signage and exhibition stands; as well as on bus and billboard advertisements. Made possible by the advent of large-format printers, these larger-than-life installations done in murals and wraps are a stunning way to engage and immerse your audience in your brand experience.