Skip to main content

Is there an advantage to using sign frames instead of vinyl graphic ads?

What are the Pros and Cons of using 
Sign Frames v. Self-Adhesive Graphics?
You may be just starting out or a seasoned graphics, sign or marketing pro, so if you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments below.

First, the basics.
Outside bus and transit advertising is generally divided into one of two types:
Self-adhesive graphics printed on vinyl, or printed signs on rigid panels in a sign frame.
Whoa- aren't sign panels and frames from the 1960s?

If Ad Frames are so "60s" why would anyone want to use sign frames?
Yes, metal sign frames have been a low-tech solution used on city buses and trolleys since the 1960s- that's half a century ago. 
Full-wrap graphics WITH a changeable frame

Here are the pros and cons of these two ad systems.
Self-adhesive graphics:
This is usually printed vinyl with a removable adhesive backing
Pro: May be applied to almost any smooth and clean non-porous surface.
Surfaces must be non-porous because the adhesive needs to fully contact the surface in order to cling without blowing off in the wind.
Pro: May be used to "wrap" a bus entirely, sides, top and back.
Pro: May be purchased perforated to go over windows.
Con: Must be removed by a trained graphics or sign person 
Con: Surface must be cleaned and detailed prior to installing graphic.
Con: Installation must be carefully measured and applied by a trained graphic/sign person.
Con: Vinyl is easily damaged or scratched.

Printed Panels and frames:
Frames generally are push-up, drop down (PUDD) or snap-open styles (the snap-open style is quickly overtaking the old fashioned PUDD style, as the snap-open frames are considered more secure at highway speeds).
Pro: Sign panels can be changed out and replaced within an average of ten minutes per frame, by a person with a basic skill set.
Pro: Sign frames can now be made in almost any size.
Pro: Sign inserts may be printed both sides so a simple "flip" of the sign reuses the panel.
Con: Frame size dictates the size of the sign inserts useable.
Con: Some care must be taken to maintain or repair frame if damaged.

So to say this another way, it's cheaper labor-wise to use frames?
That's true. It's much cheaper to use frames and printed panel.

An average installation of vinyl graphics, including removing the existing graphic, preparing the surface (cleaning, prepping) and alignment and application of a new graphic averages 2-3 hours per graphic of Sign Company or Graphics person time at an average hourly rate of $45 per hour. That's $90 to $120 to change out the average graphic up to 120" x 36".

The average installation and replacement time for a snap-open or old-style PUDD frame is 10 minutes per sign for an average $2-$3 per sign by a current staff person, mechanic, driver or administration person.
Different frame "profiles" available at this manufacturer

What is your point of view?

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

How to make a simple Do-It-Yourself foam letter sign

Here are a few easy-to-follow steps for making a foam letter sign. Before you start, here are some basic descriptions to help you plan for what you need. You may want to print this out and save this or forward it to someone looking for guidelines. Contents : What are foam letters? Where can I order foam letters? How can I find the cost? How large do the letters need to be? available space (for your sign) how far does the sign need to be readable? aesthetics What do I need to have to make this turn out well? Using the yardstick Before you glue or cement anything in place You're almost there! What are foam letters? By "foam', I refer to the dimensionally stable extruded plastic "foam", which is cut into letters usually from a 4x8-foot master sheet. The sheets are usually available in 1/2", " and 1-1/2" thickness, so for the sake of this brief article, I'll refer to 1" thick letters when I mention foam letters. Foam let...

Concrete letter casting basics

This is a beginner's guide to the basics of casting concrete   For specific details, search online for how to create concrete casting forms. To cast concrete with lettering and a logo if desired, you need a form, concrete and letters. The form can be on a flat surface, into which you can pour your concrete, or the form can be erect with a bottom, sides, a front and a back. Be sure to mix sufficient smooth concrete so that a spill or leak won't scuttle your casting pour. Stir and poke the concrete to reduce incidence of air pockets. For the sake of simplicity, this article focuses on using a flat form or pan for making pavers. After deciding on the form or pan shape and size, follow the basic preparation instructions. I Reverse-cast metal letters with a 7-degree draft for casting f you're casting pavers , especially those with a pattern, design or wording combination, you'll likely want to have a reusable form with multiple-use letters. Letters made to be ...

Elevate Your Storefront: A Guide to Awning Graphics for Awnings, Canopies, Flags and Sails.

If you're moving into a store with an awning, congratulations, huge savings will be realized by not having to create or replace an awning. If the awning has wording, or if you want to add wording, branding and graphics, what options are there? When it comes to making a lasting impression on your storefront, few elements are as pivotal as the awning. A well-designed awning not only provides shelter from the elements but also serves as a canvas for showcasing your brand identity. Whether you're looking to refresh your current storefront or embarking on a new venture, selecting the right awning graphics and lettering can significantly enhance your curb appeal. In this guide, we'll delve into the various options available, weighing the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision. 1. Painting Over Awning Fabrics: One traditional method for updating storefront awnings is through painting. While this approach offers versatility in design and color choices, it'...