A Complete Guide to Custom Signage: Materials, Styles, Installation and Ordering

Custom signage plays a vital role in how customers find, recognise and remember your business. From shopfront signs and office branding to directional and safety signage, well-designed signs improve visibility, reinforce your brand identity and create a professional first impression.

At Advance Supplies, we work with businesses, schools and organisations to design, produce and install high-quality custom signage. This guide explains everything you need to know about choosing the right signage for your space.

Signage Materials

Choosing the right material is essential for ensuring your signage looks professional, lasts for years and performs well in its environment.

Overview of Available Signage Materials

There are several materials commonly used in signage, each suited to different applications:

Aluminium composite panels

A durable and lightweight option ideal for outdoor signage. These panels are weather-resistant and maintain their appearance for long periods.

Acrylic

Acrylic signage offers a sleek, modern finish often used in offices, receptions and interior branding.

Foamex (PVC board)

A cost-effective option for temporary or short-term signage, such as events, promotions or construction sites.

Vinyl graphics

Used for window graphics, wall graphics and applied branding. Vinyl allows detailed designs and vibrant colours.

Metal signage

Materials such as stainless steel or brass are often used for professional plaques, wayfinding signage and building identification.

Indoor vs Outdoor Materials

Not all signage materials are suitable for every environment.

Indoor signage typically focuses on visual appeal and brand consistency. Materials such as acrylic, vinyl graphics and foamex are common choices.

Outdoor signage must withstand weather, sunlight and temperature changes. Aluminium composite, metal signage and weatherproof vinyl are often recommended for these applications.

Choosing the correct material ensures your signage remains clear, professional and durable over time.

Durability, Finish and Maintenance

When selecting signage, it’s important to consider:

• Durability – Outdoor signage must withstand wind, rain and UV exposure.
• Finish – Gloss, matte or textured finishes can influence the overall look and visibility.
• Maintenance – Some materials require occasional cleaning or protective coatings to maintain their appearance.

High-quality materials and professional production help ensure your signage remains effective for years.

Recommended Materials for Different Environments

Different environments require different signage solutions:

• Retail shops – Window graphics, illuminated signs and external panels
• Offices and receptions – Acrylic wall signage or metal plaques
• Construction sites – Durable aluminium signage and safety signage
•  Schools and campuses – Directional signage, wall branding and safety signage
• Industrial environments – Metal signage or durable aluminium panels

Our team can help you select the best materials for your specific location and purpose.

Different Signage Styles Available

Signage comes in many forms depending on your goals, space and environment.

Some popular options include:

Wall Signage

Mounted signage used indoors or outdoors to display branding, business names or key information.

Window Graphics

Vinyl graphics are applied directly to glass surfaces. Ideal for retail promotions, branding or privacy films.

Freestanding Signs

Standalone signs are often used outdoors to direct visitors, display information or promote businesses.

Directional Signage

Wayfinding signage that helps guide visitors around buildings, offices, campuses or events.

Safety and Informational Signs

Essential signage used in workplaces, schools and public areas to communicate safety information.

Each style can be customised to suit your brand and location.

Updating Your Signage

Over time, signage may need to be updated or refreshed to maintain a professional appearance and ensure your information remains accurate.

When Signage May Need Updating

Businesses often update signage when:

• Branding or logos change
• Contact information is updated
• Signs become worn or faded
• A new business moves into a space
• New regulations or safety requirements are introduced

As most signage typically lasts around 5–7 years, we recommend reviewing and refreshing your signs within this timeframe to keep your branding looking sharp and up to date.

In many cases, a full replacement isn’t necessary. For example, if your signage includes dates, offers or changeable information, we can simply update specific elements - saving you both time and money while extending the life of your existing sign.

Options for Replacing or Refreshing Signage

You don’t always need to replace an entire sign. Options may include:

• Updating vinyl graphics or lettering
• Replacing panels while keeping existing frames
• Refreshing colours or branding
• Installing new signage alongside existing displays

Our team can assess your current signage and recommend the most cost-effective solution.

How to Order Signage

Ordering custom signage is straightforward when you work with experienced professionals.

Step-by-Step Ordering Process

• Initial enquiry – Contact us with details about your signage needs.
• Consultation – We discuss your space, materials and design options.
• Design and approval – Our team prepares design visuals for your review.
• Production – Once approved, your signage is manufactured.
• Installation or delivery – Signs are installed by our team or supplied ready to fit.

Information We Require From You

To get started, it helps if you can provide:

• Your logo and branding files 
• Approximate sign size
• Location and purpose of the signage
• Photos of the installation area
• Any specific design ideas

The more information you provide, the easier it is for us to create the best solution for your needs.

Lead Times and Production Timelines

Lead times vary depending on the complexity and size of the project. Typically, signage production can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on materials, design requirements and installation scheduling.

We always aim to provide clear timelines during the ordering process.

Pricing Considerations

Signage pricing depends on several factors, including:

• Size of the sign
• Materials used
• Complexity of the design
• Installation requirements
• Quantity ordered

Our team can provide a detailed quote once we understand your project requirements.

Design and Scale Assistance

Creating effective signage isn’t just about printing a logo on a board. Proper design and scale are essential for visibility and impact.

At Advance Supplies, we support you throughout the design process by:

• Helping refine your concept
• Ensuring your signage is readable from the right distance
• Advising on colours, materials and finishes
• Providing layout and visual mock-ups before production

This ensures your signage looks professional and performs exactly as intended.

Signage Installation

Professional installation ensures your signage is secure, level and positioned correctly.

Installation Options

We offer several installation options depending on your project:

• Full professional installation by our team
• Supply of signs ready to install
• Signs pre-drilled with fixings or self-adhesive backing
• Installation advice if you prefer to fit signage yourself

What to Expect During Installation

During installation, our team will:

• Position signage accurately according to the approved design
• Secure signs safely and professionally
• Ensure everything is clean, aligned and finished to a high standard
• This ensures your signage looks polished and lasts for years.

Ready to Create Your Custom Signage?

Whether you need shopfront signage, office branding, school signage, safety signs or promotional displays, Advance Supplies can help you design, produce and install high-quality custom signage tailored to your business.

Our experienced team will guide you through every step - from selecting materials and developing the design to professional installation.

Get in touch with Advance Supplies today to discuss your signage project and receive a personalised quote.