When it comes to making a strong first impression, exterior business signs play a pivotal role. They serve not just to identify your business, but to attract attention, communicate credibility, and reinforce your brand to every passerby. At Sign Pro, based in La Crosse, we specialize in designing, producing, and installing custom exterior signage crafted to help local businesses shine.
In this post, we explore the advantages of exterior signage, the types you might consider, design best practices, and what working with a full-service signage company like Sign Pro looks like.
Why Exterior Signs Matter for Your Business
Your exterior sign is often the first tangible impression customers have of your company. A high-quality, well-designed sign does more than mark your location:
- Increases visibility. A clear, attractive sign helps potential customers find you.
- Builds brand identity. Your colors, font, and logo on a sign reinforce your brand message.
- Conveys professionalism. Quality materials and craftsmanship show you’re serious about your business.
- Drives foot traffic. A visible sign can draw in new customers who are unaware of your presence.
Sign Pro emphasizes that your sign should reflect your unique branding like your colors, logo, and name to make a memorable first impression.
Common Types of Exterior Business Signs
Sign Pro offers a wide array of sign types to suit different needs, locations, and budgets. Here are some popular options:
Wall Signs
These signs mount directly onto the building facade. Because they are positioned close to the structure, wall signs are ideal for storefronts and shopping centers. They can be flat, dimensional, or backlit.
Freestanding / Monument Signs
Placed independently of the building, freestanding signs or monument signs offer prominence at the roadside or driveway. They are useful when your building is set back from the street, and you want to capture attention at the curb.
Channel Letters & Illuminated Signs
Channel letters are three-dimensional letters, often with internal lighting. Illuminated signs boost visibility during dusk and nighttime, giving your business a strong presence even after dark.
Pylon & Pole Signs
High above ground signs mounted on poles give long-distance visibility, especially important for businesses near highways or large parking lots.
Panel & Dimensional Signs
Flat panels, aluminum signs, or carved dimensional signs are effective, versatile, and can be tailored to your branding needs.
Building Signs & Wayfinding
For larger complexes or campuses, building signs and directional wayfinding signs guide customers clearly to entrances, departments, or parking.
Design Principles for Exterior Signs
To maximize impact, your sign must be both visually striking and functional. Here are design best practices:
- Keep it simple. Avoid clutter. Use no more than a few colors. Let your branding shine through.
- Readability matters. Use fonts that are clean and legible from a distance. Leave enough space between letters.
- Contrast is key. Light text on dark background, or vice versa, helps visibility.
- Proper sizing. Your sign should be sized appropriately, so it is visible from the relevant distance.
- Material & finish. Choose durable materials (aluminum, acrylic, metal) suited to local weather.
- Lighting. Consider illumination, so your sign is visible at night or in poor light.
Sign Pro’s portfolio shows they are comfortable with both bold visuals and sophisticated subtlety depending on the business.
The Sign Pro Approach: From Concept to Installation
One of the advantages of working with a full-service sign company like Sign Pro is the seamless process from design through installation.
Step 1: Consultation & Concept
You start by discussing your brand identity, goals, location constraints, and budget. Their team develops design concepts aligned with your vision.
Step 2: Design & Proofing
You receive drafts or renderings showing how your sign will look. Materials, mounting styles, colors, and illumination are finalized.
Step 3: Fabrication
Sign Pro fabricates the sign using high quality materials and finishing techniques in their shop.
Step 4: Permitting & Approvals
If your sign requires municipal permits, zoning approvals, or compliance with local codes, the Sign Pro team handles that process to ensure timely installation.
Step 5: Installation
Certified installers mount the sign securely, ensuring structural integrity and optimal placement. Sign Pro ensures the finished sign aligns with your expectations.
Choosing the Right Exterior Sign for Your Business
Not every sign suits every business. Here are factors to consider when choosing:
- Location and visibility. If your building is far from the road, a freestanding or pylon sign may be better than a wall sign.
- Lighting needs. If you operate after dusk, choose illuminated or backlit signs.
- Brand style. For upscale businesses, dimensional or carved signage may convey elegance. For retail or fast service, bright illuminated signage may attract more attention.
- Budget. Exterior signage is an investment. Work with Sign Pro to find a solution that fits your finances without compromising quality.
- Longevity and durability. Choose materials that resist sun, moisture, and weather extremes in your region.
Sign Pro collaborates with you to tailor the solution to your unique needs rather than pushing a one-size-fits-all approach.
Final Thoughts
Exterior business signage is more than decoration; it is a core marketing asset. From boosting visibility and reinforcing your brand to guiding customers and making a strong first impression, the right sign can shape how your business is perceived.
At Sign Pro, clients receive full-service support: concept, design, fabrication, permitting, and installation. With local dedication and wide-ranging sign capabilities, Sign Pro helps businesses in La Crosse and surrounding areas make their mark with high quality exterior signage. Contact us today for a consultation!
