Getting a Custom Sign Made: How It Works

If you are considering working with a Houston sign company to get an eye-catching custom sign made for the storefront of your new business, you may be wondering how it all works. Getting a custom sign made is a multi-step process, but with our decades of experience, we’ll be here to assist you every step of the way. Unlike other local companies, we take care of everything in-house, from design to manufacturing to installation.

In this post, we’ll break down exactly how this process works from start to finish so that you have all the information needed to get started. Remember, a great sign is the first impression potential customers will have of your new business, so you want to make it count. Contact our team now to begin!

Preparing for Your Initial Consultation with a Houston Sign Company

Are you getting ready to kick off your new business venture? If so, your consultation with a Houston sign company about your custom outdoor sign project is a crucial step in making a memorable first impression.

Before you meet with a sign company, consider what your business offers and how to convey that visually through your logo or an idea for it. Additionally, think about where the sign will be displayed and the surrounding geography of your business’ location in order to ensure maximum visibility. Lastly, establishing a timeline for when your business will open allows the sign company to accommodate your needs and expectations.

Finding the Perfect Design for Your Sign

The design stage for your new business outdoor sign is an exciting time to let your creativity shine. You’ll have a variety of design concepts to choose from, and our team will work closely with you to make modifications until you find the perfect look.

Once you’ve made your decision, we’ll create mock-ups of the sign on your building so you can get a feel for how it will look from different angles. When you approve the final design, we’ll provide you with the final costs. After everything is signed off, manufacturing can begin.

Getting the Required City of Houston Sign Permits

It’s important to obtain the required permits before installation. As a Houston sign company, we have extensive experience in navigating the city’s permitting process. From understanding the specific codes and regulations to filling out the necessary paperwork, our team can guide you through the entire process and ensure your signs are in compliance with the City of Houston Sign Code.

Manufacturing Your Sign at Our Houston Shop

We take pride in our sign manufacturing process. Each type of sign requires its own unique approach, and we ensure that every step is carefully executed to produce a high-quality product. From designing the sign layout to selecting the appropriate materials, our team pays attention to every detail. Our manufacturing processes are followed by a thorough quality control check. We utilize the latest technology and machinery to create custom signs of any size or shape, from neon signs to more traditional ones. You can trust that when you order a sign from us, you’re getting a product that has been crafted with precision and care.

Types of Signs We Manufacture

• Channel Letter Signs: This type of signage is created with individual letters that can be illuminated. The process starts with designing the font and size of each letter. Once approved, the letters are cut out from sheets of aluminum using a computer-controlled router. The sides, called “returns”, are then formed by bending aluminum strips to the shape of each letter. LED modules are installed inside the letters for illumination, and acrylic faces are attached to the front of the letters to distribute the light evenly.
• Neon Signs: Neon signage involves bending glass tubes into the desired shapes or letters. This is done by heating the tubes over a flame until they become pliable. The artisan, referred to as a “tube bender”, then carefully shapes the tube, following a paper pattern underneath. Once the shaping is complete, the tubes are filled with either neon or argon gas, and electrodes are attached at both ends. When voltage is applied, the gas inside the tube lights up, creating the iconic neon glow.
• LED Signs: LED signs are made by embedding small light bulbs into a plastic panel. The bulbs can be programmed to create text or images that can be easily changed or updated through software. The manufacturing process begins with the design, which dictates the size and layout of the LEDs. Once designed, an automated process is often used to place the LEDs onto a circuit board. The board is then enclosed in a plastic or acrylic panel to protect the lights and wiring.
• Monument Signs: These signs are often freestanding and made from materials such as stone, marble, metal, or high-density foam. The design is carved or sandblasted into the chosen material, sometimes with added detail created by using enamel paints. The letters or logos can be made from cut metal or acrylic and are often illuminated internally with LEDs for higher visibility. The construction of monument signs requires a solid foundation, often involving the use of concrete footings for stability.

Installing Your Sign Securely

At last, the day you’ve been waiting for—installation. Getting to see your incredible custom outdoor sign announcing your new business is the ultimate goal, and that’s why we offer this service as part of our package deal. Once your custom outdoor business sign is manufactured and ready to go, our team will take care of the installation for you. Your sign will be placed in the perfect spot to attract attention and drive business to your doorstep.

Partner with a Houston Sign Company to Launch Your Business

Choosing a Houston sign company can help make an unforgettable impression on all your new customers. We aim to exceed your highest expectations and provide you with a unique design and installation service.

Our dedicated team will guide you through every step, ensuring a seamless experience. Contact us today for a free custom sign quote tailored just for you.