Frequently asked Questions about Business Signage 

Welcome to Keen Signs & Graphics! 
Your signage is more than just a name on a wall. It’s your first impression, your silent salesperson, and one of your most effective marketing tools. Quality signage attracts attention, builds brand recognition, and enhances customer experience. 

We get a lot of great questions from area business owners about materials, design, installation, maintenance, and even permits. Here’s our go-to FAQ to help you make smart, informed decisions about your signage investment. 

1. What types of materials can I choose from? 

The right material depends on where the sign will be displayed, how long you want it to last, and your overall budget. 

• Vinyl: Great for banners, window graphics, and decals. It’s durable, flexible, and weather-resistant. 
• Aluminum: A favorite for outdoor signs — lightweight, rust-proof, and long-lasting. 
• Acrylic: Delivers a polished, modern look ideal for indoor office and lobby signs. Acrylic is also a popular base for dimensional letters, which add depth and sophistication to your wall signage for a professional, high-end appearance. 
• Foamboard: Lightweight and affordable — perfect for temporary indoor displays. 
• PVC: A strong, versatile material that works both indoors and outdoors. 

Example: A retail shop might use aluminum for its exterior sign and acrylic for a sleek indoor wall display.

2. How do I choose the right sign design? 

A great design isn’t just about looks — it’s about purpose and clarity. 

• Define the goal: Is this sign meant to attract attention, give directions, or promote something specific? 
• Know your audience: Design with your target customers in mind. 
• Stay on-brand: Use your logo, colors, and fonts consistently. 
• Prioritize readability: Choose clear fonts and high-contrast colors that are easy to see from a distance. 

Example: A law firm may choose a clean, professional design with muted tones, while a children’s boutique might opt for playful colors and fun fonts. 

3. How is signage installed? 

Installation methods vary depending on size, location, and material: 

• Wall-mounted signs: Secured with screws, bolts, or industrial adhesives. 
• Freestanding signs: Anchored into the ground using posts or concrete bases. 
• Hanging signs: Suspended from ceilings or overhangs with cables or brackets. 
• Window decals: Applied directly to glass using adhesive vinyl. 

Example: A restaurant might combine indoor wall signs for menus, freestanding sidewalk signs for specials, and window decals for hours of operation. 

4. Do I need a permit for my sign? 

In most cases, yes — especially for exterior, illuminated, or large-scale business signage. Permitting requirements vary by city and county, covering everything from size and placement to lighting and materials. 

The good news: you don’t have to deal with that paperwork. At Keen Signs & Graphics, we handle the entire permitting process for you; from research and applications to submission and approval. We make sure your sign complies with local regulations so your project moves forward smoothly and legally. 

Example: Whether you’re installing a monument sign in Aiken County or a lighted storefront sign in Augusta, our team will take care of securing the proper permits. 

5. How do I maintain my signs? 

A little upkeep goes a long way toward keeping your signs looking sharp. 

• Clean regularly: Use mild soap and water; avoid harsh chemicals. 
• Inspect often: Check for fading, cracks, or loose fittings. 
• Protect from weather: Use UV laminates or protective coatings for outdoor signs. 

Example: A storefront sign should be cleaned monthly and checked after major storms to keep it looking professional. 

6. Can I customize my signs? 

Absolutely! That’s our specialty at Keen Signs & Graphics. 

• Size and shape: From small decals to massive monument signs, we can tailor the size to fit your needs. 
• Colors and graphics: Match your brand colors, logos, and imagery for a cohesive look. 
• Material options: Choose what fits your location, budget, and desired lifespan. 
• Typography: Select fonts that reflect your brand personality and maintain legibility. 

Example: A regional chain might keep consistent branding across all locations while adding subtle local touches to each store’s design. 

7. How long does it take to make and install a sign? 

Timelines depend on the scope and complexity of your project, but here’s a general guide: 

• Consultation & design: 1–2 weeks 
• Production: 1–3 weeks, depending on materials and size 
• Installation: 1–2 days 

Example: A simple vinyl banner might be completed within a few days, while a custom-lit storefront sign could take several weeks from concept to completion. 

8. How much do business signs cost? 

Pricing depends on size, material, design complexity, and installation needs. 

• Material: Premium, weather-resistant materials cost more but last longer. 
• Size & detail: Larger or intricate designs require more labor and materials. 
• Customization: Unique graphics, colors, and lighting add to cost but boost impact. 
• Installation: Professional installation ensures durability and safety. 
• Permitting: If required, permitting costs are included in your estimate — no hidden surprises. 

Example: A small acrylic indoor sign may cost a few hundred dollars, while a large illuminated monument sign could cost several thousand. 

9. How can I make my signage more effective? 

• Pick the right location: High visibility = high impact. 
• Light it well: Add illumination for 24/7 visibility. 
• Keep it simple: Clear, concise messages make the strongest impression. 
• Use quality materials: Cheap signs fade fast — invest in durability. 

Example: A retail store installs its main sign above the entrance, uses LED lighting for visibility at night, and keeps messaging short and eye-catching. 

10. Why Choose Keen Signs & Graphics? 

At  Keen Signs & Graphics, we combine craftsmanship, creativity, and cutting-edge technology to bring your brand to life. 

• Experience you can trust: Our team has years of hands-on expertise across every kind of signage project. 
• Premium materials & tech: We use the best printers, inks, and substrates for vivid, long-lasting results. 
• Total customization: From concept to installation, every project is tailored to your business. 
• Permit management: We handle every step of the permitting process so you don’t have to. 
• Full-service support: Design, fabrication, installation, maintenance — all under one roof. 

Ready to elevate your business visibility? 
Contact Keen Signs & Graphics today for a free consultation!