Are you opening your new store or planning to upgrade your existing one? The signage in the storefront or your commercial place makes or breaks your reputation. The sign for your commercial building is simply not the label. Instead, it serves to represent your brand’s presence to the world. With the signage, you make the first impression on your target audience, even before they enter your commercial space.
However, with so many styles, materials, and configurations available, you will often become confused about choosing the right one. The right signage should represent your business and capture attention. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common types of business signs for buildings, their benefits, and which industries or locations they’re best suited for.
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Channel Letter Signs
Best for: Retail stores, restaurants, shopping plazas, and corporate buildings
Channel letter signs are one of the most popular types of commercial signs. These are individually cut, three-dimensional letters often illuminated from within. Metal or acrylic is used to make these letter signs, and this signage can be mounted directly to the building or on a raceway (a mounting structure).
The following are the advantages of these signs:
- Highly visible, even from a distance
- Customizable colors, fonts, and sizes
- Professional and clean look
- Great for day and night visibility
If you prefer modern sign designs for your commercial space, these signs remain a top choice. A reliable commercial sign company can create custom shapes and lighting options to match your brand.
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Monument Signs
Best for: Hospitals, schools, business parks, law offices, and churches
If you are looking for signs that are built low to the ground, monument signs can be a good option. These are freestanding signs, often placed near a building entrance or road. These signs are made from materials like brick, stone, concrete, or metal. Many features are built-in lighting or digital elements.
Pros:
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Creates a prestigious, permanent look
- Ideal for buildings set far from the road
- Can include multiple business names (great for complexes)
These signs are especially beneficial for those areas where buildings are hard to see from the street.
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Pylon Signs (Pole Signs)
Best for: Gas stations, fast food restaurants, shopping centers, car dealerships
Pylon signs are also known as pole signs. These are tall, freestanding signs and can reach up to 20 feet or more. They’re designed to be visible from a long distance, especially near highways or large parking lots.
Pros:
- Excellent for roadside visibility
- Can be single or double-sided
- Multiple tenant options for shopping centers
If your purpose is to attract traffic, especially in a busy commercial zone, these signs can be the most effective business signs for building complexes.
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Blade Signs
Best for: Urban storefronts, boutiques, cafes, walkable downtown areas
Blade signs are also called projecting signs. You can find these signs to mounted perpendicular to the wall, sticking out from the side of the building. The position of these signs makes them highly visible to pedestrians. The signs can even attract your buyers in any busy market or shopping complex.
Pros:
- Compact but attention-grabbing
- Ideal for foot traffic zones
- Can be decorative or modern
If you have a store in any historic district or an area where the space is limited, you can consider these signs. A commercial sign company can help you. They can design a blade sign that fits local zoning codes while enhancing your storefront appeal.
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Awning Signs
Best for: Bakeries, restaurants, coffee shops, and small retailers
Commercial spaces can consider these signs, as these signs serve two purposes. First, these act to attract the target audience. Second, these are fabric or metal coverings that extend over a doorway or window and offer shelter to pedestrians during harsh weather.
Pros:
- Adds charm and character to storefronts
- Provides shade and weather protection
- Custom shapes and materials available
Awning signs are especially purposeful for businesses that target foot traffic.
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Window Graphics
Best for: Salons, offices, retail stores, fitness centers
If you consider affordable and flexible signs to serve your purpose, window graphics can be an excellent choice. They can be temporary or permanent and are usually printed on vinyl or perforated materials.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly and customizable
- Great for promotions or seasonal updates
- Doesn’t require structural mounting
Window signs don’t require larger investments. This makes it a good option for startups or seasonal promotions. A professional commercial sign company can install high-quality window graphics without damaging your glass.
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Digital & LED Signs
Best for: Schools, banks, theaters, event venues, shopping centers
These high-tech signs use digital displays or LED lighting to show messages, announcements, and branding. They’re programmable, making them perfect for businesses that need to share regular updates.
Pros:
- Change messages as needed
- Eye-catching and modern
- Works well in all lighting conditions
LED signs are very popular in businesses that need dynamic communication options. While they’re more expensive, they offer long-term flexibility and engagement.
Choosing the Right Sign for Your Business
Consider the following things to choose the ideal type of signs for your business:
- Location: Are you near a highway or in a walkable downtown area?
- Budget: Some signs (like digital LED signs) require more upfront investment.
- Zoning laws: Always check local regulations before selecting a sign style.
- Branding: Your sign should match your brand’s personality, whether bold, modern, classic, or understated.
Final Thoughts
The sign on the wall that represents your brand also acts as the silent ambassador for your business. While selecting the signage, you should consider the right style, size, and placement. Thoughtful business signs for building can transform your visibility. These also boost brand recognition and attract more customers.
Need help deciding? Our expert team at SignAnt specializes in designing, fabricating, and installing all types of commercial building signs. Contact us today for a custom consultation!
FAQs
What are the most common types of commercial building signs?
Channel letters, monument signs, pylon signs, awnings, and window graphics are popular types of commercial signs.
How do I choose the right business signs for my building?
We at SignAnt advise considering location, visibility, target audience, budget, and local sign codes to find the most suitable signage for your business.
What’s the difference between a monument and a pylon sign?
Monument signs are low and solid. On the other hand, pylon signs are tall and elevated. Both are effective business signs for building entrances or roadside branding.
Do I need a permit to install commercial signs?
Yes, most cities require permits for installing commercial signs. A professional sign company can handle approvals for you.
Can a commercial company help me with the design and installation of the signage?
We at SignAnt can help you with the design and installation of the signage for any commercial purposes.
How long do business signs for buildings typically last?
Business signs for the building exteriors can last 5–10 years or more, depending on weather and lighting.