When most businesses think of custom signs and banners for their trade show they tend to overlook the value that custom metal signs can add to their display. If you have a large display area and you regularly attend different trade shows or expos you may want to look into investing into purchasing some customized metal signs to use in addition to the regular banners or other signs you use.
Metal signs have one advantage over most other types of signs and banners; they are much more durable and permanent. The cost of investing in a metal sign will soon be offset by the simple fact that you will be able to use the sign many times over. Of course, before going ahead with a custom metal sign you will need to plan in advance what you will use the sign for and what you want printed on it. As far as their design goes, they are usually highly customizable. They can be made from many different types of metal, with many custom sign designers also able to cut the metal into different shapes. Following are some typical uses for custom made metal signs that are used for display purposes.
Information: If you regularly need to display information about a product, such as the material it is made from, size and pricing options, or even POP displays to hold items that you are advertising, you may find that a metal sign better suits your needs.
Logos: Many companies find it helpful to have their logo design placed on a metal sign. The sign will not deteriorate with use and age, and it can be used many times. Frequently these are displayed on a wooden or metal stand which can be moved to any location. They can be placed on the top of cabinets or on counters and desks.
Directional Signs: If you have a large booth or display you may also find it helpful to have signs that point to specific displays or items. Small metal signs, similar to placeholders can also be used to label different sections of a larger display. Some signs can be made with a magnetic backing so that they easily attach to metal display shelves. They can also be made to sit on small stands which can be moved around at will, allowing greater flexibility when it comes to setting up displays.
Aside from the benefit of their being long-lasting, there are other reasons to consider using them. Depending on how they are made and the material they are made from, custom signs on metal can be fairly lightweight. Also, they do not bend, crease or become damaged easily during transportation. These two factors make them ideal when you have to transport them long distances, or ship them on ahead. No special packaging is needed and you do not need to worry how they will look once they reach their destination.
Metal signs are also useful for other purposes. You will frequently see custom metal street signs used around town. Many businesses will print their company name on a metal plaque that is mounted outside of their premises, and metal signs are used internally to point the way to different department sections. Nicely mounted custom made metal signs can also be used as nameplates that sit on desks. They are used on doors and at reception desks, in hallways, lobbies and outdoor parking areas. Basically, wherever you need a sign that is going to last and that looks professional, metal should be your choice.
There are many different choices when it comes to designing these types of signs. Most custom metal signs are made from aluminum which is hard wearing and yet still very light and manageable. They are great in areas that get a lot of traffic or in areas that are exposed to the outside elements. Different thicknesses of aluminum can be chosen, depending on how sturdy you need the sign to be and where it will be placed. Copper, bronze, stainless steel and brushed steel are also often used.
Aside from signs made from solid metal, some use thin layers that are soldered together instead. These are usually cheaper than the solid metal signs and they are generally quite a bit lighter. Thus they are best used indoors or when firmly attached to a building or wall. You can also buy custom metal signs where a very thin sheet of metal is attached to an acrylic backing. Again, these signs are usually quite cheap and very lightweight.
Usually you will be asked to supply your own artwork and graphics, although many companies will also help to design the sign for you for a small fee. You can place graphics on the sign and choose which typeset or font face to use for the text on the sign.
If you want something that is durable and yet looks very professional, whether for a trade fair or for your own business premises custom metal signs may be just what you are looking for. They are relatively cheap and very durable; definitely a good investment for anyone wishing to have a more permanent sign made.
Half a century ago you would have bee likely to spot an old metal sign dangling from the wall of a petrol station or a restaurant. Over the decades, these signs have gradually been removed and the large majority of them have sadly been destroyed. The few that remain around the world have now become pieces of modern art to many people.