Signage is important in any business’s marketing strategy. Signs provide a first impression of your brand, a glimpse into your office/storefront and signal to customers what your business is all about. In order to make a great impression on passersby and returning clients, it’s important that your sign looks its best. For outdoor signage specifically, maintenance is a key part of making sure that your sign accurately reflects your brand. If you’ve never performed sign maintenance before, you might be unsure of what this entails. To help you get started before the summer tourist season begins, we’ve outlined some easy ways that you can clean up your outdoor signage. Follow along below to learn more about DIY Kelowna sign maintenance!

The First Steps in DIY Kelowna Sign Maintenance

maintain your sign for summer in kelowna

Before you begin cleaning your sign, you should first take inventory of how the sign is holding up. Determine if there are any larger issues like cracks or chips in the body. If your sign illuminates, make sure that there are no burnt-out bulbs or lighting defects. Any damage to your sign should be repaired as soon as possible to ensure its longevity and best appearance. If you notice any issues with your sign, it is best to call a professional like SignCraft to have your sign repaired. Hiring an expert to get the job done will extend your sign’s lifespan and prevent the likelihood of you needing to make the same repairs over again. 

Business owners with mounted signs should also double-check that the mounting hardware is still secure. Take a look at the bolts, screws and brackets holding up your sign to make sure that there is no damage or loose hardware. Issues with the hardware can pose safety risks to pedestrians and vehicles. If you notice anything that is loose or broken, be sure to tighten/replace the hardware. Being diligent about checking these things will help prevent unwanted hazards.

Finally, before you start the cleaning process, you should remove any obstructions blocking your sign. For example, tree branches, bushes and overgrown plants. There are a few reasons why you want to do this. The first is that vegetation covering your sign makes it hard for people to read and spot. The second reason is that tree branches and bushes can cause damage to your sign when not trimmed properly. From scratches to chips, all it takes is the right amount of wind for chaos to ensue. The last reason is to make sure that the aesthetics of your sign are not compromised. 

How to Clean Your Sign Like a Pro

summer sign maintenance

One of the easiest things that you can do to clean your sign is to wipe it down with a mild detergent and water solution. After lots of time spent in the elements, it’s likely that your sign will have some build-up on the surface. To remove this and get your sign shiny, use a microfiber cloth and a mild to gentle cleaning solution. You do not want to use any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these could damage the finish of the sign. In general, when cleaning your sign, avoid the use of dry cloths/paper towels, acids, solvents, detergents with abrasives, coarse cloths, cleaning brushes and pressure washers.

Another tip for regular maintenance is to apply a UV protectant to your sign once it is clean. Putting a UV-resistant wax on your sign 3-4 times per year is a good way to ensure that your sign maintains its bold appearance. It will also help preserve the look of the paint if your sign is painted. You can also apply a clear protective coating like a sealant or laminate to provide an extra layer of protection against Kelowna’s four seasons. 

If you’re still not sure about cleaning your sign on your own, consider hiring the help of a professional. At SignCraft, we specialize in all things related to signs—including maintenance. Consequently, we have the tools and knowledge to get the job done right the first time. From genies to extra large ladders, we have all of the equipment necessary to get your sign back to looking its best. Whether it’s a broken light, basic cleaning, or damage to the sign’s structure, we can help!

Contact us for Professional Kelowna Sign Maintenance

Contact us at SignCraft today to learn more about our Kelowna sign maintenance offerings. Be sure to get in touch with us soon—you want to make sure your sign is ready for the Kelowna summer! To learn more about what sign is right for your needs or to receive a quote, contact us at SignCraft today. We look forward to helping you achieve your signage goals. For more information, check out our social media page and feel free to call us at any time!