Few companies have the resources and expertise to create their signs. Thus, many leave the work to professional signage companies. But with so many signage companies in Dallas, how do you find one worth your time and money? Here are a couple of factors to keep in mind when choosing a sign company in Dallas, Texas.
The Services Offered
Signage companies offer different services depending on clients’ needs. Some companies specialize in digital signs, while others only offer traditional print media signs. A company providing the entire spectrum of signage services is great, but you can also opt for one specializing in the specific type of sign you want.
The services to look for in a signage company include:
- Consultation: The company turns your visions and ideas into reality
- Fabrication: This involves creating the sign using your preferred materials
- Installation: The signage company will install the actual sign where you want it placed
- Maintenance and repair: Signs need servicing every once in a while to keep them looking new and fresh
It’s worth noting that some signage companies only provide one or two of the mentioned services. For instance, a company may only offer design consultation and fabrication. So you’ll have to do the installation yourself or hire a third-party company.
Experience and Expertise
The right sign could be the difference between a popular, profitable business and a struggling and overlooked one. According to a survey by FedEx Newsroom, 76% of the respondents would enter a store for the first time because of its sign.
Experience and expertise are the most important elements to look for in a sign company. New sign companies pop up every day, but the new kids on the block don’t always live up to customers’ expectations. You’re better off settling on an experienced company with at least five years in the game.
However, experience isn’t always about the number of years the company has been active. It’s also about how many clients the sign company has worked with and the results. Experienced sign-design companies will proudly showcase their portfolio as a testament to their proficiency and dedication to their work.
The Company’s Accreditation
Before entering into any agreement with a signage company, ensure it has the correct licenses and is accredited by authoritative bodies like the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET and the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP). Licenses and accreditation prove that the company is stringent in terms of professionalism, quality, and safety.
Check Reviews and Testimonials
Reviews and testimonials will tell you what to expect from the signage company you have in mind. These are first-hand accounts of other clients’ experiences with the company. From reading a handful of reviews, you can learn about the company’s pricing structure, customer service, quality of work, and much more.
However, cautiously approach the reviews on the signage company’s site. That’s because the company can write its reviews. Instead, you’ll want to rely on authority review sites like the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and others.
Consider the Price
Price shouldn’t be your primary consideration when choosing a signage company, but it’s still worth taking it into account. You want to find a sign company that matches your budget. This means a company that’s not too expensive but also not too cheap.
Most businesses make the mistake of picking the cheapest company they can find. Sure, they get to save a couple of bucks in the short term, but they spend a lot more to repair or replace the signs. Companies with suspiciously low prices take shortcuts by using subpar materials or cutting corners in the design and installation processes.
Still, this doesn’t mean that the more expensive a sign is, the better it will be. The best approach is to find a signage company with reasonable rates that match your budget. That way, you can get a high-quality sign without eating into your profits.
The Choice of Material
External signs can take a huge beating from inclement weather like heavy rains, hail, and intense heat. Signs made of high-quality materials are more resistant to these harsh conditions and can maintain their visual appeal and functionality despite the elements. You’ll want a sign company offering weatherproof and fade-resistant materials like high-density urethane (HDU or foam board) and vinyl with UV laminate. It should also offer paints and inks with UV inhibitors.
Steer clear of companies that offer low-grade materials, regardless of their enticing rates. These materials are prone to chipping, cracking, and fading, which will diminish the quality of your sign, send the wrong message, and put off prospective customers.
The Sign Company’s References
Any top-tier signage company in Dallas will be more than happy to refer you to their previous customers. That’s because the sign company is proud of their work and has satisfied customers to vouch for their service quality, professionalism, and reliability. Ask the company you have in mind to provide you with a list of references.
Failing to provide references is a huge red flag, and you should look the other way. If the company provides you with references, contact them and ask the following questions:
- How quickly did they complete the work?
- Are the service rates as advertised?
- How cooperative were the staff during the conceptualization stage
- Would you hire the company again?
If the references answer positively to the above questions, you’re in safe hands. If not, keep looking for a company with solid references and a good reputation.
Only Settle for the Best
With the above considerations in mind, you should be more than capable of choosing a reliable signage company for your business or organization in Dallas, Texas. It’s absolutely important to ensure that the company has the appropriate licenses.
Also, check the company’s reviews and testimonials to get an idea of what you’re signing up for. Do your research in order to find the best signage company to take your company to the next level.
