Mastering the Elements: A Guide to Weather-Resilient Signage

Why Winter Weather Spells Trouble for Signage

1. Rain

In the United Kingdom, rain is a constant companion, and its impact on signage cannot be underestimated. The prolonged exposure to moisture and oxygen can lead to rust and corrosion, particularly in metal signage. Moreover, poor-quality printed posters and panels are susceptible to fading or even washing away. To counteract this, it becomes crucial to invest in weatherproof solutions that stand resilient against the relentless British rain.

2. Snow and Ice

While less frequent, the arrival of snow and ice brings its own set of challenges. These elements not only introduce moisture but can also accumulate on signage surfaces, concealing branding and messaging for extended periods. As snowfall and icy conditions become a reality, businesses must adopt weather-resistant solutions to ensure their signage remains a beacon, undeterred by the frosty grip of winter.

3. Wind and Storms

For those situated along the east coast of Norfolk, exposed to the might of the North Sea, strong winds are a common occurrence. The impact of these winds on signage can be substantial, leading to uprooted flags or toppled pavement signs. Whether coastal or inland, the risk of disarrayed branding is ever-present. This underscores the importance of signage solutions that can withstand the forces of the wind, ensuring your brand maintains its polished appearance, even in the face of storms.

Top Tips for Winter-Resilient Signage

Winter poses distinct challenges for businesses aiming to maintain impactful and resilient outdoor signage. At ExpoCart, we're committed to helping your business shine through the frosty months. Follow these essential tips to ensure your business signage not only withstands but excels in the face of winter challenges.

1. Choose the right product & materials:

The foundation of winter resilience lies in the materials you choose.

• Reject Rust and Corrosion!

  When it comes to metallic signage, such as steel and aluminum, safeguarding against rust and corrosion is imperative.
  
  Our Swinger signs boast a sturdy steel frame treated with zinc phosphate. This treatment not only improves powder coating adhesion but also provides a formidable defense against winter weather. With this protection, your signs will remain resilient against rain, snow, and sun, ensuring they maintain their shine all year round.

• Protect Your Artwork from Water Damage

  When showcasing printed posters outdoors, durability is key. We've witnessed the disappointment of beautifully crafted designs ruined by water exposure. Utilising moisture-resistant paper ensures your posters withstand the elements, while periodic cleaning with warm, soapy water preserves their clarity and message, ensuring they remain impactful and clear for all to see.

• Finding the Perfect Balance: Weight and Stability

  Creating resilient signage isn't just about heaping on weight and hoping for the best. It's about finding the harmonious relationship between weight and stability. Take, for example, our SentinelⓇ, boasting an impressive 150kg weight, ensuring steadfastness. Yet, don't underestimate the prowess of our Ecoflex 2, which, despite weighing less than 8kg, has proven its resilience against winds exceeding 60mph.
  
  Many modern signs feature water-fillable bases for added stability. While it's recommended to fill these bases fully from the outset, it's also wise to double-check their fill levels during challenging weather conditions to ensure optimal stability.

Stand Tall with Sturdy A-Board Signs

Make a bold statement with A-Board Signs that stand tall against winter's challenges. These versatile and sturdy signs are resistant to the elements, making them perfect for showcasing promotions or providing essential directional information.

Embrace Adaptability with Flexi Pavement Signs

Weather conditions can change rapidly in winter. Embrace adaptability with Flexi Pavement Signs. Their flexible design allows them to sway gracefully with the winter breeze, ensuring durability and visibility in changing weather conditions.

Explore ExpoCart's range of Pavement Signs, crafted to endure the winter chill. Robust materials ensure that your signage remains intact and visible through rain, sleet, and snow.

2. Optimal Placement is Essential

Investing in top-notch, weather-resistant signage is just the beginning. It's akin to acquiring a masterpiece painting and then hanging it with thumbtacks. While the art itself is invaluable, its presentation could spell disaster. Proper installation and positioning aren't merely matters of aesthetics; they're crucial for performance and safety.

Thoughtful consideration is key: positioning signs to minimise obstruction, maximise visibility, and allow ample time for absorbing the message. For instance, placing a sign at a store entrance may not always be the wisest choice if there's a forecourt available.

Winter conditions underfoot can add further complexity, underscoring the importance of carefully planned sign placement for optimal results. In cases where ground-level space is limited, alternatives like Poster Frames and Projecting Signs offer highly visible options, leaving ground space clear.

Every business owner should prioritise strategic sign placement, whether handled in-house or outsourced. If you're unsure how to optimize it, don't hesitate to seek assistance.

3. Illuminate Your Message

Combat the shorter days with Display LED Lighting options. Illuminate your signage for maximum visibility, ensuring your message shines through the winter gloom and captures the attention of passersby

4. Schedule Regular Maintenance:

• Regular Maintenance

  Essential and proactive. Periodically checking screws, bolts, and other hardware ensures they withstand the rigors of winter. A loose bolt today could mean a fallen sign tomorrow.

• Maintain Visibility

  No business wants their signage to resemble a lopsided snowman. As temperatures plummet, regularly clear snow and ice buildup and wipe away condensation with a microfiber cloth to keep your message visible to passersby.

• Replace Worn Parts

  If your signage appears faded and lackluster, rejuvenation may be simpler and more affordable than you imagine. Many products offer compatible replacement parts such as printed panels, sleeves, frames, and bases, sparing you the need for a complete unit replacement.

• Plan Ahead

  Prevention is always better than cure. If harsh weather is on the horizon, consider relocating signage to a sheltered area overnight. With our Trolley, it's a far easier task than you might think!

Need Help?

Navigate winter confidently with ExpoCart's top tips for winter-resilient signage. Choose durability, flexibility, and visibility to ensure that your messages stand out, even in the frostiest conditions. Explore our complete Winter Signage Collection at ExpoCart, and let your business shine through the winter months. Stay visible, stay successful!