Ten sign companies will make the same sign 10 different ways.
Here are just a few reasons for price variations between sign companies.
1. SIGN FACES:
Sign suppliers tell us that most sign companies purchase FF acrylic sheets and low cost vinyls.
Interior-use and expired vinyls are often used for exterior sign applications.
The result is that sign colours can fade, crack and peel within a year or two, making your 2 year old sign look 20 years old.
FF acrylic faces have a warped appearance and even more so in hot weather.
FF acrylic faces break easier and are more prone to wind damage.
At Roland's we use high impact SG acrylics with exterior grade translucent vinyls.
When printing the image we add a protective clear coat.
2. SIGN CABINETS:
The vast majority of sign companies still use the old X7 retainer system from the 1960's.
With this system piano hinges are used which create a gap at the top of the sign.
The result being water entering the sign enclosure causing water stains on the inside of sign faces,
increased lamp & electrical failures and fast corrosion of the sign cabinets.
At Roland's we use the UltraSign cabinet system which is watertight, visually attractive and is super versatile.
For large signs we use wide body UltraSign cabinets to avoid pole shadows.
For multiple tenant panels we use the UltraSign HSD directory system for quick and easy panel replacements.
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3. COATINGS:
Preparation, primer coat and finish coat will determine how long your sign looks new.
Few sign companies have ministry approved facilities and/or spend the time and expense to apply premium coatings on steel, aluminium, PVC and other surfaces.
At Roland's we use the same automotive urethane paints and procedures that high end collision shops use.
4. MOON:
Some sign companies will promise the moon to get your signature and deposit.
Common promises and statements include unrealistic delivery dates, misrepresentation of materials,
"our sign is the best", "we have the best people", "you can make revenue from your electronic sign".
At Roland's one reason we have been in business for so long is that we avoid the smoke and mirrors approach.
5. STRUCTURE:
In the sign industry there are many essential overhead expenses required to protect the customer, public and employees.
These include liability & vehicle insurances, good WSIB standing, licensed crane operators, annually certified cranes and man-lifts,
CSA inspected manufacturing processes, sign permits for all new exterior signs, proper facility & equipment for the job,
knowledgeable and competent management, qualified workers and a work ethic to ensure long term success.
At Roland's we encourage you to question us and any sign company about these issues.
