Helpful Hints Exterior Signs
Message Content
On directional signs, do not anticipate decisions that can be made later.
Unnecessary or premature information will confuse the reader.
cont.
Messages placed on signs should be concise, preferably with no more than
seven to ten words.
For signs to be read from a moving car, take into account the speed of the car.
At a slow speed the driver may be able to read 7 or 8 words. At a faster speed
they will only be able to read 4 or 5.
Message Layout
Use upper and lower case text whenever possible. Upper and lower case
text is easier to read and understood faster than text in all capital letters.
Line-spacing between two different messages should be greater than
line-spacing between lines of the same multiple-line message group.
Text should not be run right up to the edge of the sign.
If a line text needs to be reduced in order to fit on a sign, use only commonly
recognized abbreviations, reduce the number of words or reduce the size of
the type for the entire message. DO NOT condense the type face.
The most important message should appear as the first line text and the
most important directional information should be at the top of the sign.
Placement of Signs
Signs should, if at all possible, always be perpendicular to the intended viewer.
Position signs with a clear line of sight from the viewing point to the sign face.
Typically a driver gathers visual information by viewing to the right first.
Keep directional signs on the same side of the street that the driver is driving.
Always evaluate a sign's location at night as well as in the daylight. Lighting
conditions and visibility may change at night making a particular location
unsuitable.
All signs should be placed in a manner that will be clearly visible to driver all
times of the year. For example, make sure that snow removal doesn't bury
signs.
Signs that receive spray from irrigation sprinklers will show oxidation from the
minerals in the water resulting in a poor appearance. The life of the sign will
also be considerably shortened.
Always consider the landscaping surrounding a sign when determining a sign's
location. It is important that trees, shrubs and other plants do not obscure
the sign.
Do not place signs in locations where people may walk into them. Don't place
signs any closer than 12" to a walkway.
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02/2005
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