Back in 1800s, ‘hanging out your shingle’ meant opening your own business. The expression is still used to this day, and it still makes just as much sense: the shingle, or roof tile, was a sign advising the world at large of your trade.
While times change, the necessity for signs doesn’t. If there’s one thing common to almost every line of business, it is the importance of good, clear, and effective signage – from a billboard alerting passing motorists, to professional shop frontage highlighting your premises. Signs tell people who you are, where you are, and what you do. And they work around the clock and on weekends, too!
Whether in the 1880s, yesterday, and for sure tomorrow, signs work; that’s why there are so many of them.
On that note, bear in mind that not all signs are made equally. Tatty, faded, broken or inaccurate ones are no good, and may send quite the wrong message. You want a professional look and, like anything else, regular maintenance for your shingle (or shingles, if you’ve got a few up around the place) is important. It doesn’t have to be hammer and tongs, often just a good wash does the trick.
Did we say times change? They sure do, and that’s a good reason to keep track of your signage and its relevance for the prevailing times. Think back to the 1970s…a lot of brown and orange. The 80s? Neon rocked.
The 2000s? Light it up! While LED signs may have a higher initial cost compared to traditional signage, their long-term cost savings in terms of energy efficiency, maintenance, and increased revenue potential make them a cost-effective choice for many businesses. And did we mention they’re environmentally friendly?!
While some of these elements make it back as retro chic, there’s just as much which doesn’t. And, of course, your choice of design, colours and font is influenced by what your business does. But do be sure and keep an eye on what’s current, and what looks faded and jaded.
So, shingles, shopfronts and billboards have a long and successful history. Branding company vehicles, too, is something people have done pretty much since cars (and food/ice cream trucks) emerged.
Probably one of the most exciting development in recent times is a full vinyl car wrap. These really push the boundaries of what you can do with your ‘mobile billboard’, totally changing the look of your vehicle, with some quite spectacular options for catching the public eye.
We’ve done more than a few, and every customer raves about the results. Not just because it looks cool (it does!) but also because it works for their businesses.
Whatever your signage requirements, at DB Signs we’re here to help. Give us a ring or drop an email or a text, and let’s see how we can make your shingle shout from the rooftops!
Contact:
07 576 0036
sales@dbsigns.co.nz
