Your exterior signage is the very first handshake you offer a new customer. Does yours convey trust and professionalism, or does it look tired and neglected? In the unique climate of Southern Alberta, where high winds and intense UV exposure are the norm, outdoor displays age significantly faster than in other regions. As a business owner, it is easy to become “sign blind” to the gradual wear and tear, but your customers notice every crack, faded letter, and flickering light.
If you are noticing a drop in foot traffic or simply feel your brand doesn’t stand out like it used to, it is time to look at the data. A study by the Signage Foundation found that improving signage can directly increase revenue, yet many owners delay the process until the sign physically falls apart. If you are looking for a Sign Replacement service in Medicine Hat, you need a solution that can withstand our specific weather conditions while maximizing your visibility. Here is how to tell if it’s time to retire your old sign and invest in an upgrade.
The “Squint Test” (Fading and Peeling)
Stand across the street from your business. Is your red logo looking pink? Is the vinyl peeling at the edges? UV rays in Southern Alberta are intense. Faded signs suggest a lack of attention to detail—a message you don’t want to send to clients.
Rebranding Mismatch
Have you updated your website or logo recently, but your physical sign still shows the old colors? Consistency builds trust. If your digital presence doesn’t match your physical storefront, you confuse potential customers.
Flickering or Dead LEDs
Nothing says “neglect” like a channel letter sign that reads “HOT_L” instead of “HOTEL.” If your lights are dimming or flickering, it’s not just an eyesore; it’s a safety issue. Leaving damaged signs in place for long periods of time damages you companies reputation.
Poor Visibility from the Road
Traffic patterns change. If a new tree has grown in front of your sign, or if the speed limit on your street has increased, your old sign might be too small for drivers to read safely. Make sure your business is visible from high traffic angles, you do not want to miss a opportunity to inform the public of your location. Bonus Tip: Make sure your Google Maps location is set properly and leads people to your store front.
Physical Damage
Between windstorms and hail, signs take a beating. Cracks in the acrylic face can let water in, which can damage the electrical components inside. If you see visible cracks, replace the face before the whole unit fails. This will save you money as the whole sign assembly is more costly than a repair. Pro tip: You can replace faces on channel letters as a brand refresh, change the color to draw new attention.
Ready for a refresh? [Contact SpeedPro] our award winning location for a free signage audit. We are the signage a vehicle graphics experts in Medicine Hat with over 30 years of building brands, manufacturing and marketing.
