How big is big?
Probably the single most overlooked factor in sign design is
readability. Without it, messages are unread and designs are unappreciated ~ No
legibility; no responses.
First things first.
Ascertain first the readable distance required from the chart
below, then have
Significant Signs Ltd. manufacture the signage
in accordance with readability specifications.
Expose me.
In general terms, the exposure time for exterior signage is:
• Drive-by
traffic: 3 seconds
• Walk-by traffic: 11
seconds
LETTER VISIBILITY CHART
MAXIMUM
READABLE
DISTANCE |
READABLE
DISTANCE
FOR MAX
IMPACT |
LETTER
HEIGHT |
| FEET |
FEET |
INCHES |
| 100' |
30' |
3" |
| 150' |
40' |
4" |
| 200' |
60' |
6" |
| 350' |
80' |
8" |
| 400' |
90' |
9" |
| 450' |
100' |
10" |
| 525' |
120' |
12" |
| 630' |
150' |
15" |
| 750' |
180' |
18" |
| 1000' |
240' |
24" |
| 1250' |
300' |
30" |
| 1500' |
360' |
36" |
| 1750' |
420' |
42" |
| 2000' |
480' |
48" |
| 2250' |
540' |
54" |
| 2500' |
600' |
60" |
|
|
|
Still don't know...
In general, bigger is better, so over-sizing is recommended. However,
there may be site considerations (such as physical obstacles, bylaw restrictions,
or budget restraints) that disallow for the optimum size. These considerations, as
well as onsite variables may necessitate a readability test.
Example: Your site requires
readability from drive-by traffic at 1,000 ft distance.
Have Significant
Signs excerpt an element of the proposed sign, such as a single letter that
typifies the readability requirements (such as "N"ow Selling).
Temporarily install the unit and test for readability.
Disclaimer:
There are many variables that affect the readability of signage. Read
our disclaimer
