In this blog, AGC will look at the following 4 types of ground signs and review what they are, what you might expect in terms of cost, and factors related to the installation of these signs:
Click on each corresponding link above to jump ahead to that section Or, if you have a sign project in mind, don’t forget to contact our sign experts at AGC Signs.
The name “Ground Signs” refers to any sign that is seen from or near ground-level.
Ground Signs
If you aren’t familiar with the term “Ground Signs”, it simply refers to signs that can generally be viewed from ground level. They are usually placed at entrances to welcome clients and/or announce their presence, or they may be placed along streets to advertise a business.
Let’s review the 4 main ground signs.
1. Monument Signs
Here is an image of a Monument Sign, a typical example of a ground sign.
About
Monument Signs are strong, sturdy signs that usually sit out front of a business. They are permanent signs often found at the side of the road or at the entrance to a parking lot. They usually have a concrete base and may include other elements like strong plastic or aluminum.
They can last 5 years or more without needing maintenance and, when professionally designed and installed, they make a great first impression.
Cost
While the cost of each sign differs, you can probably expect to spend at least $6,000 and upwards of $10,000 or more. It depends on the materials used in manufacturing your sign and the size of your sign.
Installation
Permanence
Something to consider about installing a monument sign is that they are not designed for frequent adjustments or change. They are permanent installations that require special equipment to install or remove.
Visibility
Another factor to consider is that, with time and growth, foliage may prevent clients from seeing your monument sign. You’ll need to maintain your property and keep tall grasses, shrubs and trees from obstructing people’s view of your sign.
2. Pylon Signs
Pylon Signs, which are lower to the ground, may be considered ground signs.
About
Pylon Signs are similar to Monument Signs in that they are strong and sturdy signs used to advertise a business. While they are generally created to stand quite tall, they can be created to stand closer to ground level.
They are built using strong materials like brick, metal and concrete. They may be lit so they are visible at night and seen from the highway or so that they help display a business’s entrance.
Pylon signs are often used to advertise:
Grocery Stores
Shopping Centres & Plazas
Other Large Organizations (E.g. Hospitals, Schools)
Cost
The starting price of a small Pylon Sign is $10,000 or more. The price can increase quite a bit depending on the materials used (eg. You may want a backlit pylon sign) and the equipment needed to install it.
Installation
Permanence
Like Monument Signs, Pylon Signs are not meant to be moved or adjusted frequently. Keep in mind that they are a permanent installation and it can be expensive to make changes because of the special equipment required to install, move or remove it.
Specialized Equipment
If you wish to install a Pylon Sign, you likely won’t own the equipment or have the training to safely do so. In order to erect a pylon sign, bylaws must be followed and owners must attain a sign permit. This ensures that your pylon sign is safe and will not cause any harm to people or surrounding property.
3. Custom Signs
Custom Signs often include a digital display or illumination.
About
While the label “Custom Signs” covers a broad range of sign types, we’ve included it here because people often like to add digital displays or illumination to their ground signs. As you see in the image above, a digital display can be added to a Monument Sign to provide information to clients.
Large organizations like schools, hospitals, churches or recreation centres like to display important and relevant information on their ground signs. You’ll often see a PD Day notice or even an inspirational quote displayed on a school’s sign.
Cost
Since custom signs often include illumination or digital displays, they usually will be more costly than your average basic sign. A small custom sign may cost $5,000 or less, but a larger custom sign can be anywhere from $20,000 and up.
Installation
Permanence
Again, you’ll need to think in terms of a custom sign being permanent since it is often created with strong and sturdy materials and designed to receive electricity. Major changes to the structure of your custom sign would require a significant amount of time and money. That being said, the beauty of having a digital sign is that you can change the message!
Electricity
Remember that digital and illuminated signs require electricity. You’ll need a professional to design and install your sign so that it functions properly and is installed safely.
4. Pin-Mounted or Channel-Letter Signs
This ground sign, a Monument Sign, uses pin-mounted letters.
About
In this final section of our blog on ground signs, we’d like to look at other types of signs that include pin-mounted or channel letters. While pin-mounted and channel letters are not signs, you’ll often see signs with these types of letters placed at entrances or on the exterior of buildings.
Pin-Mounted Letters
Pin-mounted letters are solid letters that are fastened to a sign with metal pins. They are strong and sturdy and can be attached to stone or brick monuments.
Channel Letters
Channel letters are letters that come in a variety of sizes and fonts and are made from materials like plastic or metal. They can also be lit up or displayed as push-throughs. They are often attached to walls, sign panels or monuments and can be seen at ground level.
Cost
Smaller signs with channel letters or pin-mounted letters can start at $4,000 and cost up to $20,000 for larger signs or signs that are backlit, etc.
Installation
Maintenance
One advantage of having a sign with channel letters or pin-mounted letters is that you can easily maintain them. If a letter becomes damaged or is loose, you can replace a single letter instead of the whole sign.
Electricity
Keep in mind that, if you wish to have your channel letters illuminated, you’ll need to hire a professional to install your sign. You’ll also need to consider this in the overall cost of your sign.
AGC is your expert signage company and specializes in all sorts of ground signs.
Ground Signs From AGC
AGC Signs specializes in all sorts of signs. Whether you want a ground sign or an exterior sign that can be seen up high from afar, our experts have you covered. You can view our gallery to see samples of our work and can trust the reviews of other customers in Pickering and the GTA.
With over 10 years of experience as a full-service signage company, AGC is prepared to help you with any signage project you have in mind. They will even work with you to design and create something that reflects your own unique vision. Contact us to get started with your signage project.
“They have always been wonderful to work with. I was first referred to them by another happy customer of theirs as I was planning to open my own office. AGC’s designer worked with me and the customer service rep to create my business logo, letterheads, business cards, and the large signs outside the office. From the designing, to editing, making and printing, and sign installing... Everything was done in a timely manner and they were so professional to work with. Every year or two, I reach back out to make a small order here and there, and they are always ready to help. Strongly recommend them! Thank you Adrian and Rhonda!”
