Sign Maintenance Checklist: How to Make Your Sign Stay Bright During the Dark Months Landmark Sign Company November 22, 2024

Sign Maintenance Checklist: How to Make Your Sign Stay Bright During the Dark Months

A business sign in the shape of a fish with an illuminated outline

Winter is coming, and as daylight hours shrink, your business sign plays a crucial role in attracting customers. After daylight savings time ends, signs become more visible at night, making regular maintenance essential to ensure they shine bright and clear.

We often see an increase in service calls related to sign issues after this seasonal change, with problems ranging from dim lighting to signs that simply aren’t making the grade. You probably even found this article because you were Googling ‘sign maintenance companies’. 

Because of this, we’ve created a thorough winter sign maintenance checklist to help you keep your sign in top shape during the dark months.

Common Post-Daylight Savings Sign Issues

Lighting Problems

One of the most common issues is lighting. Signs may become dim, flash unexpectedly, or have sections that are completely dark. To determine if your sign is underperforming, compare its brightness to those nearby. If yours appears duller, it’s time for a check-up.

Wear and Tear

Signs that have been exposed to the elements can show signs of damage, like cracked or dirty faces, faded colors, peeling vinyl, or even spider-webbing. These wear and tear issues not only reduce the aesthetic appeal but also affect the sign’s effectiveness in drawing in customers.

Maintenance Checklist for Your Business Sign

Regular maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your sign and ensuring it remains an effective marketing tool. Sign maintenance companies can help you with any of the following: 

1. Lighting Checks

  • Inspect bulbs and LEDs for dimming or outages.
  • Check wiring connections for any potential problems.
  • Observe during different times to see if lighting is consistent throughout the night.

2. Physical Condition Assessment

  • Examine the sign’s structure for any cracks, dents, or damage.
  • Check for peeling vinyl or fading colors that might need touching up.
  • Assess the mounting hardware to ensure it remains secure.

3. Cleaning Your Sign

  • Use a mild detergent and soft brush to gently clean the surface.
  • Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
  • Dry with a cloth to avoid water spots and streaks.

Ways to Fix Your Sign

If your maintenance checklist reveals more than a few issues, it might be the right moment to consider some updates for your business signage. Addressing these concerns promptly can have a significant impact on your brand’s visibility and appeal.

Sign Replacement

If your sign is plagued by poor lighting and significant wear and tear, a new sign might be the best option. A complete replacement not only improves visibility but also offers modern features and design aesthetics to keep your business looking fresh and inviting. New materials and technologies can also provide durability and longevity that older signs cannot offer.

New Faces for Existing Signs

Replacing the acrylic, vinyl, and trim caps of your existing signs can greatly enhance both the look and durability of your sign. This update ensures your signs align with current branding trends and maintain a professional appearance.

This option also allows you to maintain the structure of your existing sign, while giving it a revamped appearance that captures attention.

LED Retrofits

Upgrading to new LED lighting can increase brightness, ensure consistent illumination, and improve energy efficiency. LED technology has advanced significantly, offering improved performance, a wider color range, and a longer lifespan compared to older lighting systems. 

Even if your sign already has LEDs, newer technology can provide better performance and reduced energy costs.

Cleaning and Basic Maintenance

Simple cleaning can remove accumulated grime and enhance visibility, ensuring that your sign remains an effective advertising tool. We recommend establishing a routine cleaning schedule to keep your sign in optimal condition. 

Regular maintenance checks with sign maintenance companies can also help identify minor issues before they develop into costly repairs, saving you time and money in the long run.

Illuminate Your Business with Landmark Sign

Keeping your sign in top shape doesn’t have to be a daunting task—especially with Landmark Sign by your side. As a trusted choice among sign maintenance companies, we specialize in comprehensive sign maintenance, ensuring your signage stays bright, functional, and visually appealing throughout the year. 

From routine inspections to address wear and tear to expert solutions for lighting issues, we provide the care your sign needs to perform at its best. Connect with Landmark Sign to learn more about maintaining or upgrading your signage.