Winter is coming - and it can spoil your advertising signage if not cared for properly.
As the nights draw in, the temperature drops and the rain falls, the last thing you need is for your business's first impression to succumb to the elements through improper setup, neglect, or simply wrong product choice.
Your signs are like the promoters and porters for your business; they advertise, greet, inform and direct your customers. Look after them, and they’ll look after you and your business!
Fortunately, you’re in the right place, as we are seasoned (get it?) pros when it comes to ensuring your signage never falters, whatever the weather.
Why might winter weather be bad news for signage?
Rain
OK, rain is certainly not something that the UK only experiences during the winter months, but that’s why it’s all the more important to be well-prepared with weatherproof solutions. Prolonged exposure to moisture and oxygen can lead to rust and corrosion in metal signage; plus, your beloved branding will simply fade or even wash away when showcased on poor-quality printed posters and panels.
Snow and Ice
Whilst thankfully less common than rain, snow and ice can prove to be even more problematic. Not only do they bring the dreaded moisture factor, but they can also pile up and accumulate on your signage, meaning your branding and messaging are obscured – sometimes for weeks at a time.
Wind and Storms
Here on the east coast of Norfolk, exposed to the North Sea, we know all about the effects of strong winds and we also understand the impact they can have on your signage. Whether coastal or inland, you don’t have to venture far before you’re likely to see examples of up-rooted flags or a toppled-over pavement sign on your next trip down the high street. Not a good look for those brands!
The Essential Winter Signage Survival Guide
Much like the weather itself, all this potential for damage and disruption can sound pretty bleak. However, there are many things you can do to prevent your business’s signage from suffering the same fate. Take action now and your signage will be more resilient than a snowman in a freezer!
- Choose the right product
Navigating the vast options of advertising signs and display solutions can feel overwhelming due to the sheer amount of choice available. Whilst there's no one-size-fits-all guide for winter-proofing every type of signage, here are some cardinal rules that apply across the board:
Say No to Rust and Corrosion
For metallic options like steel and aluminium signs, rust and corrosion protection are non-negotiable.
Take our Swinger and SentinelⓇ ranges for instance. Their robust steel frames are treated with zinc phosphate, enhancing the adhesion of powder coating and offering a fortress-like shield against the winter elements. The result? Signs that continue to shine in rain, snow, or sun.
Shield Your Artwork from Water
When it comes to displaying printed posters outdoors, only the strongest survive. We've seen the horror of artful designs turning into smeared ink messes due to water infiltration. Printing onto moisture-stable paper will give a trouble-free poster life, plus, an occasional wash down of poster cover sheets with warm soapy water will remove the roadside grime, keeping that essential poster message in clear full view.
A Balanced Equation of Weight and Stability
Sturdy signage is not just about making it as heavy as a boulder and calling it a day. It's the thoughtful interplay between weight and stability that matters. Yes, our incredibly stable SentinelⓇ might weigh in at a rock-solid 150kg - but don't overlook the likes of our Ecoflex 2 which has proven it can withstand winds of over 60mph and yet weighs less than 8kg.
Many popular signs now feature water-fillable ‘tank’ bases. It is best practice to fully fill bases from day one, however the onset of challenging weather is a good reason to just double-check that all signs are completely filled.
- Proper Positioning is Key
Investing in high-quality, weatherproof signage is only half the battle. It's like buying a Picasso and then hanging it with thumbtacks. Sure, the art is priceless, but the presentation could be a disaster waiting to happen. Proper installation and positioning isn't just an aesthetic choice, it's also key for performance & safety.
Consideration is essential; locating signs for least obstruction, maximum visibility and allowing time to absorb the sign message. For example, it isn’t always the best choice to place a sign in a store entrance when there is a forecourt available!
Winter conditions underfoot might provide an added distraction so well-considered sign positioning remains imperative for best results.
If ground level space is at a premium then Poster Frames and Projecting Signs give a highly visible alternative; wall mounting can leave the ground space clear.
Every business owner should prioritise their sign positioning whether it's an in-house need or contracted out. If you're the least bit uncertain how to optimise it, don't hesitate to reach out.
- Maintaining your Signage
Routine Checks
Necessary and preventative. A quick check of screws, bolts, and other hardware every now and then will ensure they're not succumbing to winter's wrath. A loose bolt today could mean a sign on the ground tomorrow.
Keep your message visible
No business wants their sign to look like a wonky snowman. As the temperature drops, be sure to regularly remove any snow and ice build up and wipe clear any condensation with a micro-fibre cloth to keep your messaging visible to passers-by!
Replace parts when needed
If your signage has started to look rather faded and lifeless, an uplift may not be as pricey and daunting as you think. Many products are compatible with replacement parts such as printed panels, sleeves, frames and bases which will save you from having to replace the entire unit.
Think Ahead
Everybody knows that prevention beats a cure. If you know you’re expecting some seriously harsh conditions, always consider bringing them into a sheltered area overnight. Don’t worry, with our Trolley it’s nowhere near as hard as it sounds!
So there you have it! A well-maintained sign says a lot about your business, and winter doesn't have to be the villain in your signage saga. With some well-informed buying decisions, a touch of regular care and preventative action, your signage will be ready to face the winter and beyond!