Most Commonly Asked Questions About Signage — With Expert Answers

Written By paul novoa

Whether you’re opening a new business, rebranding an existing space, or planning a multi-location rollout, signage plays a critical role in visibility, branding, and customer engagement. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about business signage, from materials and permits to installation and design—answered by our expert team at Wallsticker.

1. Do I need a permit to install a sign?

Yes, most exterior signs require a permit—especially if they’re mounted to a building, project into public space (like blade signs), are illuminated, or are installed in historic or regulated districts.

Requirements vary by city, so it’s best to check with your local building department—or let us handle it. We specialize in sign permit procurement for cities like New York, Boston, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

2. How long does a vinyl sign last outdoors?

High-quality vinyl signs can last 5–10 years when printed on premium materials like 3M or Avery Dennison and properly installed. Lifespan depends on exposure to sunlight, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.

For added durability, we apply UV-resistant laminates to extend the life of your signage and keep colors vibrant.

3. What’s the difference between indoor and outdoor signage materials?

  • Indoor signage uses lightweight materials like foam board, PVC, or non-laminated vinyl, optimized for aesthetics.

  • Outdoor signage requires weather-resistant materials like aluminum, Dibond (ACM), 3M vinyl, acrylic, and sealed wood.

Outdoor signage also uses stronger adhesives, UV protection, and anti-fade coatings to handle the elements.

4. Can you install vinyl on textured surfaces?

Yes—with the right materials. We use specialized vinyl films like 3M IJ8624 for textured surfaces like brick, stucco, or concrete. These wraps require heat and pressure to conform properly and ensure long-term adhesion.

Not all textured walls are ideal, so we always perform a site surface assessment first.

5. What’s the difference between perforated and non-perforated vinyl?

  • Perforated vinyl allows one-way visibility—perfect for retail windows where you want the graphic outside, but visibility from inside.

  • Non-perforated vinyl is solid and ideal for high-impact graphics where visibility isn’t needed.

We help clients choose based on privacy, lighting, and graphic goals.

6. How much does business signage cost?

Signage pricing varies based on:

  • Material type (vinyl, aluminum, acrylic, etc.)

  • Size and complexity

  • Location and install access

  • Permit requirements

  • Design needs

For example, a simple window decal may start at a few hundred dollars, while a large blade sign with permitting and fabrication can cost several thousand.

7. Do you offer installation services nationwide?

Yes. We have a nationwide network of certified installers, allowing us to manage signage rollouts in all major U.S. cities. Whether you’re opening one location or 100, we provide consistent, on-brand installation from coast to coast.

8. Can you help with design and branding?

Absolutely. Our in-house design team specializes in retail signage, brand application, and environmental graphics. Whether you have a brand guide or need custom artwork created from scratch, we’ll make sure your signage makes an impact.

9. What is ADA-compliant signage?

ADA signage follows the Americans with Disabilities Act standards, including:

  • Tactile lettering

  • Grade 2 Braille

  • High contrast

  • Non-glare finishes

  • Specific mounting heights

We fabricate fully ADA-compliant signs for offices, retail, hospitality, and public buildings.

10. What types of signage do you offer?

We design, produce, and install:

  • Vinyl wall and window graphics

  • Blade signs and projecting signs

  • Storefront and dimensional signage

  • Wayfinding and ADA signage

  • Construction barricades and wraps

  • Vehicle graphics and wraps

Looking for something custom? We build to spec.

Need signage for your next project?
At Wallsticker, we manage everything from permits and design to fabrication and installation—nationwide.

Contact us today for a free consultation or quote.

paul novoa
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Can You Install a Wall Wrap Over Textured Surfaces?