Choosing the Right Finish for Corporate Signs

In modern signage manufacture there are now a range of coatings and finishes which can be applied to signs. These finishes are designed to not only enhance the overall appearance of the sign, but also to offer different levels of protection to the sign surface depending on where it will be used. If you are commissioning new signage for a site then a good understanding of which finishes to use for your particular circumstances will help you in getting the best possible look for your signs and the longest possible lifespan.
This article provides a short guide for sign buyers on some of the latest finishes available for bespoke signs and the types of use they are most suitable for.
Standard Painting and Graphics Options
Most Signs will be painted and then finished with graphics. Most sign companies will expect a RAL or Pantone Colour reference for selecting the correct colour, although some companies may be able to match a colour from a swatch provided. All signs should be primed before painting in the final colour to ensure durability.
There are a few different ways of putting text and pictures onto signage. Applied vinyl is the most common for text and although it is quite durable, the letters are stuck on to the sign they can be picked off if attacked so may be unsuitable for schools and similar environments. Screen printing is a great alternative to applied vinyl as this is flat to the surface of the sign so letters cannot peal from the surface.
Digital print is usually used for pictures and it is worth enquiring about the quality of the printer being used on larger graphics to ensure that you picture will be reproduced at adequate quality.
Special Paint Finishes
Many sign companies now offer special paint finishes to enhance the final look of the sign. A metallic effect paint technique called Cold Coat can give standard Aluminium the look of Brass, Bronze and other metals without the cost and difficulty of using these materials. Cold Coat finishing not only looks like the real thing, but it also ages in the same unique way so will continue to look convincing though out the lifespan of the sign.
Another common paint effect is a suede finish. As well as providing a unique finish to signage it also has a very practical application. Suede paint finishes don't show fingerprints like standard painted surfaces so are useful for any area where signage will be touched - such as public buildings, hospitals and large corporate buildings.
Clearguard UHS Protective Coating
One of the most popular of the new protective coatings is Clearguard UHS. This is a clear lacquer which is applied over the graphics and text to protect the surface of the sign. Clearguard UHS offers protection against graffiti, UV and other environmental damage so is recommended for external signage in public areas. Although it costs a little extra, Clearguard can significantly extend the lifespan of signage and also reduce on-going maintenance costs.