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We often get this question and it surprises people to hear that often times we need time for planning, permitting, fabrication and installation of building signs. We have found through experience, that a well executed sign installation is best done when we have been able to establish plans that all stakeholders will understand as we go through the proper detailed journey.
I admit, at times I get caught up trying to help potential clients when they are desperately trying to get a sign installed on a building within 3 weeks. I would love to help, but the reality is, exterior signs are usually large, heavy objects that require planning and informing the municipality. It simply does not happen quickly, I like to say it's usually a journey.
Planning
Planning is a combination of vision, budget, building style and city ordinance. We conduct surveys to come out and listen to your vision, measure the sign space, take photos, determine how the sign will mount to the building or ground, look up ordinance for size requirements and then we can provide a realistic quote.
Design
Here we provide a look into how the sign will look in position, size, and colors. The rendering may not be exact, but it does give a pretty good indication how it will look. We cannot generate a proof using the exact materials, but there are instances it can be done. We generally have materials on hand to show how signs are constructed and the color pallets and the materials. This is the stage we provide a detailed quote of the project.
Detailed Sign Plan
If the client likes what they see and are willing to move ahead with our work, we then add more detail to the plan, prepare city permit paper work, have an engineer develop stamped plans if required, and have the property owner and the client sign the plan.
Permitting
At this stage we head off to the city. Each municipality has their very own set of rules, procedures and forms. For a fee, we provide the forms, plans and attend meetings in order to secure the permit. There are cities around Cleveland that take 2 to 4 months and there are cities that take 3 days. The fastest we have ever secures a permit was 2 days.
Sign Fabrication
Depending on the product produces, this can take from 2 weeks up to 12 weeks. If thee project is complex, we may need to consult the client or an expert for help. This is rare, but the possibility exists. Weather could be an issue for delivery November through April.
Sign Installation
Finally we head out to the location with sign in hand! (or in the truck) This can easily be affected by weather but I am always impressed by the staff who head out in all kinds of inclement weather at high elevations to get the job done. This is also a point where we can find challenges do to unforeseen circumstances. Poorly constructed walls or poorly labeled wiring, etc..
Hopefully in can see that exterior building sign fabrication is a journey and we help through the entire process. At Epic Signs & Graphics, we provide knowledge and expertise to guide you to a successful installation. Call today for a free consultation!
