Designing Signage That Lasts: Best Practices for Outdoor Signs Copy
Introduction:
When you invest in outdoor signage, you’re not just buying a marker for your business—you’re creating a lasting impression for years to come. The best type of sign for outside is one that combines durability, eye-catching design, and materials made to withstand the elements. From carved wood to creative monument signs, a well-crafted piece can serve as both a marketing tool and a piece of functional art.
Here’s what you should know to ensure your next sign is truly a long lasting sign.
1. Start With the Right Material
The foundation of a durable sign is its material. For outdoor use, not all substrates are created equal.
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High-Density Urethane (HDU) – Lightweight, waterproof, and immune to rot, high density urethane (HDU) is ideal for intricate 3D carving and layered designs.
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Wood – Some woods are better than others. Cedar, redwood, and white oak have are naturally resistant to insects and decay, these woods offer a timeless look when properly sealed. Other hardwoods also work well. BUT BEWARE, all wood will expand and contract eventually shift enough that will cause the paint/finish to crack. Therefore, wood is not ideal.
- Plywood – Plywood will move and the paint will crack and moisture will get in. This can happen after 1 year or less. If plywood is being used for a signs here is our recommendation: use sign grade medium density overlay (MDO), round over the edges with a router, apply wood glue or epoxy to the edges, then two coats of primer, then good paint.
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Aluminum vs. Steel – Steel will rust over time even when painted. Powder coating steel is one solution. Stainless steel is great of course. Aluminum is also great because it resists rust and is light weight.
- Plastics and Vinyls – Some plastics are better than others. Some types of acrylic can scratch and yellow and become foggy. Some PVC’s like expanded PVC can warp like crazy in the sun. Vinyl lettering and printed vinyl will last for a while but then will crack and peel and the colors will fade.
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Concrete and Mortar – Very strong, very durable and long lasting. Caution and experience must be used to paint/stain it.
Choosing the right base material ensures your sign can handle everything from scorching sun to driving rain.
2. Weatherproof From Day One
A truly long lasting sign isn’t just about what it’s made from—it’s about how it’s protected.
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Sealants & Primers – Multiple coats of marine-grade primer and sealer keep moisture out and prevent cracking.
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UV Protection – Fade-resistant paints and clear coats shield against the sun’s harsh rays.
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Rust-Free Hardware – Stainless steel or powder-coated fasteners prevent staining and corrosion.
Starting with top-tier protection means fewer repairs and better curb appeal over the years. Be sure to read this post about the best clear coat finish to put on your wood sign.
3. Design for Your Environment
Where your sign will live should influence how it’s built.
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Wind Load & Snow Load – Monument signs need solid footings and reinforced framing to handle seasonal storms.
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Sun Exposure – South-facing signs may need extra UV protection.
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Drainage & Airflow – Prevent water pooling at the base to avoid premature damage.
Custom design ensures the best type of sign for outside is tailored to your location’s unique challenges.
4. Maintain It Like an Investment
Even the strongest signs benefit from care.
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Seasonal Inspections – Look for peeling paint, loose hardware, or small cracks before they grow.
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Gentle Cleaning – Use mild soap and water; avoid high-pressure washing that can strip coatings.
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Professional Touch-Ups – Periodic refinishing keeps your sign looking fresh for decades.
Think of maintenance as protecting your brand—not just your sign.
5. Craftsmanship Makes the Difference
A well-made sign is more than a display—it’s a statement.
3D carved and layered designs add depth and visual interest that flat vinyl simply can’t match. Our team blends artistry with precision CNC routing to create durable signs that not only survive the outdoors but elevate your brand’s image.
If you’re serious about getting the best type of sign for outside, invest in quality materials, expert weatherproofing, and professional craftsmanship. The result is a long lasting sign that continues to work for you year after year.
Ready to create a 3D carved or monument sign that will stand the test of time? Contact Custom Signs 3D today and let’s design something extraordinary.
View award winning HDU signs here.
