Everyone knows the saying that size matters. This is also true when determining outdoor sign size. However, there is such a thing as having a sign that is too big. So, how should you go about outdoor sign sizing? Your questions – answered!
What is the Speed Limit on Your Street?
As a general rule of thumb, outdoor signage size needs to increase as speed limits rise. For example, on a road where cars travel at 25 mph, seven inches is a good letter height. However, when cars travel on a street at 55 mph, the letter size must be at least 16 inches. Mind you, these measurements refer to the heights of the letters, which do not necessarily include a surrounding frame.
Tip: The faster the speed of passing cars, the taller the letters of outdoor signage have to be.
What is the Angle from Which Passersby Look at Your Sign?
In the trade, we refer to the viewing angle when discussing outdoor sign sizing. Wider angles give passersby more time to take in your message while walking or driving past your facade. These calculations are of particular importance when considering LED signs. When our team works with clients requesting these products, we typically do quite a bit of measuring and calculating to get it just right.
Tip: Invite our team for a site survey. We are trained to think like a customer and base outdoor sign size on the consumer’s experience.
Viewing Distance Influences Facade Placement
Where will prospective customers most likely be when they see your signage? Are they going to be across a driveway in a parking lot? Will they be pulled up in their cars right at your front door? Are they driving past your location on an overpass? The distance between the customer and your building’s front influences not just outdoor sign sizing considerations but also placement considerations.
We have already discussed height as it relates to traffic at your location. When it comes to pedestrians, we have found that for every 10 feet of distance between the customer and your sign, the letter height needs to increase by an inch. And, yes, we do measure. Finally, remember that the placement of the signage depends in large part on where the customer is when looking at your company’s building.
Tip: In some cases, clients benefit from the installation of two signs. This is of particular benefit when you have two sides of the building that face streets.
Facade Design Influences Sign Design and Sizing
The design and overall makeup of your outdoor signage also depend on the way your facade looks. A building with intricate architectural details will have different signage needs than one with little ornamentation.
Tip: During our design consultation, we show you different styles of outdoor signs and sizing options that will be suitable for your location.
Do you have more questions about outdoor sign size? Call us today!