Have you ever noticed a faded or broken sign while driving down the road? Or maybe you’ve walked past a storefront with a missing letter on its signage. These small details may seem insignificant, but they can have a significant impact on the safety and effectiveness of a sign.
In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of regular sign inspections. We’ll dive into the details of why these inspections are needed, what signs should be inspected, and how often inspections should take place.
Why Are Sign Inspections Necessary?
Inspecting signs may not seem like a top priority for many business owners or city officials. However, regular sign inspections should be a crucial part of any signage maintenance plan.
Here are a few reasons why:
- Safety – Broken or poorly maintained signs can pose safety hazards to both pedestrians and motorists. For example, a sign that is loose or missing could fall and cause injury or damage.
- Legal Compliance – Certain sign codes and regulations require regular maintenance and inspections to remain compliant. Failure to do so can result in fines or legal action.
- Brand Image – Signs are often the first impression that customers have of a business. A poorly maintained or damaged sign can reflect poorly on the company.
- Functionality – Signs that are damaged or not working properly can be ineffective in communicating their intended message to the viewer. This can impact sales or other desired outcomes.
What Signs Should Be Inspected?
Any type of sign should be inspected regularly, including:
- Exterior Building Signage – This includes mounted signs, channel letters, and any other exterior signage.
- Interior Signage – Signs, such as directional signs, ADA signs, and wayfinding signs.
- Monument Signs – These are freestanding signs, typically located at the entrance of a property.
- Electronic Message Centers – These signs often require more frequent maintenance to ensure that they are functioning correctly.
How Often Should Inspections Take Place?
The frequency of inspections can vary depending on the type of sign, location, and weather conditions. Signs located in harsher weather conditions, such as coastal areas or areas with extreme temperature changes, may require more frequent inspections.
Here are some general guidelines:
- Exterior Building Signage – Inspect every 2-3 years
- Interior Signage – Inspect every 3-5 years
- Monument Signs – Inspect every 2-3 years
- Electronic Message Centers – Inspect every 1-2 years.
Concluding Thoughts on Sign Inspections
Regular sign inspections might seem like an unnecessary expense to some. However, the benefits of these inspections far outweigh the costs.
By inspecting signs regularly, businesses and municipalities can avoid safety hazards and legal issues, maintain their brand image, and ensure their signs are functioning effectively. Regular inspections can also save money in the long run by catching issues early on, before they turn into expensive repairs.
Remember, the importance of sign inspections cannot be overstated. By creating a regular inspection schedule, you can protect your investment, ensure safety, and maintain the effectiveness of your signage.
FAQs about Sign Inspections
Q: How do I know if my sign needs to be inspected?
A: Any sign should be inspected regularly and if it has not been inspected for quite some time, or any sign that is showing signs of wear and tear, such as fading or damage, should be inspected immediately.
Q: Who should inspect my signs?
A: Sign inspections should be conducted by qualified professionals who are trained to identify any issues or hazards. You can ask a professional signage company or consultant to perform an inspection.
Q: What happens if I don’t inspect my signs?
A: Signs that are not inspected regularly can pose safety hazards, fall out of compliance with regulations, and lose their effectiveness. This can result in injuries, legal action, and lost revenue.
Q: How much does a sign inspection cost?
A: The cost of a sign inspection can vary depending on the type, size, and location of the sign. However, the cost of a regular inspection is far less expensive than the cost of repairs or legal action resulting from a sign failure.
Q: How long does a sign inspection take?
A: The time it takes to inspect a sign can vary depending on the type of sign and any identified issues. However, most inspections can be completed in less than an hour.
