Resources
The Signage Process
From start to finish, we work with organizations of all shapes and sizes to provide expert advice, creative solutions, and quality execution.
Here is everything you need to know to purchase your next signage display.
FAQ
Signs are the least expensive, yet most cost effective form of advertising for most businesses. A good sign is your “handshake” with those passing by because signs are “on the job” for you 24/7/365. Businesses are often judged by the appearance and look of their signage. We live in a mobile society with potential customers perpetually relocating each year. As your customers move, you need to replace them by attracting new customers.
Purchase
Cash purchases require a deposit of 50% when the contract is signed. The remaining balance is due 15 days after installation is completed. In some circumstances progress billings or payments can become due during manufacture- these are agreed upon before the contract is signed. They are most applicable in larger scale projects or those where manufacturing can take up to several months.
Lease
Blanchett Neon has several local leasing companies that we use to provide leasing numbers to our customers. Lease Agreements will be between you (the customer) and the leasing company; Blanchett Neon will not be involved or need to see any financial information. Most lease agreements include a down-payment as well as a buy-out option at the end of the term.
Definitely! We no longer live in a 9-to-5 society, and people will drive past your business location 24/7. With an illuminated sign display, you have an opportunity to communicate with your existing and potential customers, day or night… even when your business is closed.
As a business owner, consider all of your options, which may include cash payment, financing, or leasing.
Some business owners prefer leasing to purchasing to reduce their cash outlay. Leasing enables you to preserve your working capital for inventory, labor, and other normal costs of doing business. A normal lease will result in perpetual monthly payments, you never own the asset. There are leasing options structured with a final large payment to “buy-out” the lease and gain ownership of the asset.
Yes! Customers will “sign off” a proof sheet prior to production. We make every effort to include all relevant details pertaining to the sign in the proof sheet. At times “color critical” files require a test print. We are only able to accurately match “process colours” as referenced in the Pantone® colour chart. If your artwork uses a specific pantone color, please specify the coated pantone number.
The answer to this question is “generally not”. Most charges are included in the price of the end product. This can vary, though, on the complexity of the job. In any case, if it does appear that said costs may arise – your Blanchett Rep. will insure you receive a quote before we start the job.
You should be aware of several legal obligations that may affect your sign, including, among other things, permits, copyrights, patents and trademarks, building and electrical codes, local zoning or sign codes, and perhaps other regulations. These will vary depending on many factors. Blanchett Neon reps happily walk you through all these steps. In fact, many clients leave the process of filing for permits with us. No headaches!
Glossary/Terminology
An illuminated reverse channel letter (open or translucent/transparent back) so light from the letter is directed against the surface behind the letter producing a halo lighting effect around the letter
A sign composed of lightweight material that may be used to announce open houses and grand openings, make special announcements, or communicate events.
The portion of any elevation of a building extending vertically from the grade to the top of the wall or eaves, and horizontally across the entire width of the building elevation, including slanted wall surfaces sometimes referred to as a mansard.
A sign that is in some manner affixed to or attached to a building.
A sign enclosure consisting of the frame and face(s), which does not include the internal components, or support structures.
Fabricated or formed three-dimensional letter that may accommodate a light source. Channel letter bending is typically done using one of two methods—automated bending and hand bending. It is important to note that only the return of a channel letter is bent, and the letter return is what gives a channel letter its recognizable shape. Both the channel letter face and the back are either routed by automated equipment or cut with hand tools. Once cut, they are then affixed to the bent letter return.
A sign that identifies the names and locations of tenants in a multi-tenant building (such as a mall) or in a development made up of a group of buildings (ie: condominiums).
A sign that utilizes computer-generated messages or some other electronic means of changing copy or images. These signs include displays using LEDs.
A sign mounted on a building
A sign that is not attached to a building.
a light-emitting diode (a semiconductor diode which glows when a voltage is applied).
A polycarbonate durable plastic with UV protection
A low level free standing sign.
A dimensional letter that has no face and if illuminated, the light source is visible.
A sign attached to a building, structure, or the ground in a manner that enables the sign to resist environmental loads, such as wind, and precludes ready removal or movement of the sign.
A switch that automatically turns on when the environment is dark and off when there is daylight.
A building mounted sign with the faces of the sign perpendicular to the building fascia plane.
A type of lettering that is pushed through a letter shaped hole in a panel from the panels rear.
A freestanding sign with visible support structure or with the support structure enclosed with a pole(s) cover.
An electrical enclosure that doubles as a mounting structure for the sign.
The framing retainer mounted around the perimeter of a sign face, attached to the sign cabinet structure.
The return is the side of a channel letter, and it typically ranges in depth.
A fabricated dimensional letter with opaque face and side walls usually illuminated to create a halo effect on the adjacent surface.
The area of a sign on which the copy or image is intended to be placed.
Enabling a person to find his or her way to a given destination through the use of effective signs usually found in public buildings such as malls or hospitals.