Choosing the right business sign is crucial, yet many business owners underestimate its importance. Poor sign design mistakes can lead to low visibility, brand confusion, or even a wasted investment. Whether you’re opening a new location or updating your storefront signage, knowing what to avoid ensures your sign works for you, not against you.
If you’re opening a new location or updating your storefront, avoiding these five mistakes can save you time, money, and lost customers.
Mistake #1 – Choosing Style Over Function
Flashy and overly creative commercial signage might grab attention, but not always for the right reasons. Often, complicated fonts, excessive colors, or intricate designs hurt readability, especially from a distance.
Prioritize clear fonts, high-contrast color schemes, and simple layouts. Your outdoor sign must be legible at a glance, whether someone is driving by or walking past. Font size, spacing, and clean design are key for high visibility.
At Sarasota Sign Shop, we’ve seen firsthand how effective designs blend functionality and eye-catching appeal. Our experience ensures your outdoor business signs are both beautiful and highly readable. We can ensure you communicate your message at the highest level with our visual solutions.
Need help designing a sign that people actually read? Contact Sarasota Sign Shop today!
Mistake #2 – Ignoring Local Signage Regulations
Every city, including Sarasota and Manatee counties, enforces zoning laws and permit requirements for custom signs for businesses. Ignoring these rules can cause major headaches: fines, forced removals, or project delays.
Navigating these regulations can be complex. That’s why Sarasota Sign Shop handles the permitting process for you. We ensure your signage meets local codes, saving you time and potential legal trouble.
Don’t risk fines or delays—our team knows the local code and does the paperwork for you.
(For specific Sarasota signage guidelines, visit the City of Sarasota Development Services site.)
Mistake #3 – Skimping on Quality Materials
Choosing cheaper materials might seem like a budget win, but it usually leads to faded graphics, rusted metal, or broken fixtures, especially in Florida’s harsh climate.
Opt for UV-resistant inks, durable metals, and weatherproof materials to ensure longevity. Sarasota Sign Shop uses top-grade materials and state-of-the-art technology, like HP Latex printers and a EPSON V7000 flatbed, to deliver durable results.
Our custom business signage is built to withstand Florida’s intense sun, humidity, and storms — and we stand behind their quality with robust durability standards. Our business signs are built to last.
Want a custom business sign that stands the test of time? Reach out to Sarasota Sign Shop to learn more about our material options.
Mistake #4 – Not Considering Long-Term Maintenance
Even the best outdoor business signs need regular maintenance, from cleaning to light bulb replacements. Whether its vinyl banners, yard signs, acrylic signs, indoor and outdoor signs, taking care of signage is critical for longevity. However, overly complex or poorly constructed signs make maintenance costly and inconvenient.
Choosing a design that’s easy to maintain will save you money in the long run. Sarasota Sign Shop designs signs and banners for longevity and easy upkeep. Your outdoor use signs will last long term with Sarasota Sign Shop.
Plan for the future. Partner with Sarasota Sign Shop for signs that look great for years.
Mistake #5 – Working With a Non-Local or Inexperienced Provider
Online-only vendors and big box stores may offer cheap deals, but they often lack the local expertise needed to navigate custom sign printing that meets Sarasota’s regulations, weather conditions, and visibility needs.
Sarasota Sign Shop has been serving local businesses for over 15 years, delivering custom signs and banners tailored to Sarasota’s unique environment.
Why guess when you can work with a proven local expert? Schedule a free consultation with Sarasota Sign Shop today! We offer quick turnaround time on custom signs and graphics.
How to Choose the Right Business Sign
The right business sign should:
- Comply with all local codes
- Stand out clearly from a distance
- Last through harsh weather
- Be easy to maintain
- Represent your brand authentically
Sarasota Sign Shop specializes in helping businesses design and install signage that checks all these boxes. Whether it is a decal or a custom outdoor sign, we have you covered.
Checklist: What to Look for in a Sign Company:
- Experience with local permits and regulations
- Strong portfolio of functional designs
- High-quality, weather-resistant materials
- Maintenance and repair offerings
- Personalized, on-site consultations
Ready to Get It Right the First Time?
Don’t guess — get expert guidance from Sarasota’s trusted sign company. Sarasota Sign Shop is ready to help you create a logo sign that draws customers in and stands the test of time.
Let’s design a sign that brings people in, not pushes them away.
