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How much does it cost for a sign to be made?

  • Writer: woodproductsigns
    woodproductsigns
  • 3 days ago
  • 3 min read
Red and white fire department sign on dark wall, question text overlay: "How Much Does It Cost for a Sign to be Made?"

When considering signage for your business, public space, or educational area, understanding costs can help you plan better and avoid surprises. How much does it cost for a sign to be made? The answer depends on factors like materials, size, design, and installation. Below, we'll break it down clearly to give you a more complete picture.


How much does it cost to get a sign made?


When purchasing a sign, the first questions typically revolve around pricing for custom weatherproof outdoor signs. Prices are influenced by material, design complexity, size, and any additional features like UV coating or rounded edges. For example, the cost for High-Pressure Laminate Signs typically ranges from $30 to $80 per square foot. This price includes features like enhanced durability, resistance to scratching and vandalism, and suitability for public spaces like parks and trailheads. For most signage needs, staying below 48” on both sides can help keep prices manageable.


Additional Costs:


  • Optional Features: Customizations, such as rounded corners or specific coatings, may increase costs.

  • Design Services: Some providers offer these services for free (e.g., Summit provides free designs with unlimited revisions).


How much does it cost to design a sign?


Design costs contribute significantly to the final price, but some companies bundle design services at no additional charge. For example, Summit Sign Panels provides professional designs, taking rough ideas or sketches and turning them into polished visuals without extra fees. For those opting for a monument sign cost, design doesn't just include the graphics, but also covers materials like stone or metal.


Monument signs can range from $12,000 to over $350,000, depending on scale and materials.


How much does an average sign cost?


The cost of an average sign varies widely based on size, material, and complexity. Smaller custom weatherproof outdoor signs or interpretive signs may start at $30 per square foot, while more extensive signage projects climb into thousands of dollars. Here’s a breakdown of cost factors:


  • Materials:

    • High-pressure laminate (HPL): Durable and long-lasting, perfect for trails and areas with high wear.

    • Wood (e.g., cedar/oak): Rustic and appealing but less durable than HPL.

    • HDPE or Plywood (MDO/HDO): Economical choices for short-term signage.

    • Aluminum and HDU: Lightweight options, often used for road or directional signs.


  • Sign Size:

    • Staying under 48” x 96” keeps both material and manufacturing expenses reasonable. Oversized signage incurs substantial additional costs.


  • Design and Installation Costs:

    • While design is often bundled into the product pricing, installation costs range from $3,000 to $6,000 per day, covering labor, travel, lodging, and equipment. Most installations take 1–3 days.


How much does it cost per square foot to install a commercial sign?


For commercial sign installation costs, prices are billed daily and not per individual sign. The typical range is $3,000 to $6,000 per day, depending on factors like location, complexity, and labor intensity. This would include:


  • Travel & Lodging for the installation team.

  • Special Equipment, like cranes or specialized tools.

  • Labor Costs for highly trained professionals.


Where to find installation services

If you’re searching for “commercial sign installation cost near me,” it’s helpful to work with local vendors familiar with local zoning laws and regulations. This can also save money on travel-related expenses.


Additional Tips for Cost Efficiency


For businesses and organizations managing signage budgets, here are a few practices to ensure affordability without sacrificing quality:


  • Stick to Standard Sizes: Odd or oversized dimensions lead to material waste and higher production costs.

  • Material Selection: Choose durable materials like High Pressure Laminate Signs to reduce long-term maintenance.

  • Plan Ahead: Large-scale projects – particularly for monument and interpretive signs – benefit from early planning to avoid rushed or overpriced solutions.


Three colored chain links represent "Material Selection," "Printing Techniques," and "Maintenance" with text on durability, inks, and upkeep.

Why invest in high-quality signage?


Whether you're creating an interpretive sign to educate visitors or installing a decorative monument, signage is both functional and essential for communication. Durable, well-designed signs not only attract attention but ensure longevity, especially in challenging outdoor environments. For instance, interpretive signs cost less long-term if high-quality materials are used, reducing the need for frequent replacements due to wear or vandalism.


The Choice Is Yours


If you’re ready to explore durable and eye-catching signage options, consider the advantages offered by High-Pressure Laminate Signs, which combine endurance and excellent visuals suited for any environment. Contact Wood Product Signs today for customized solutions, professional design services, and guidance on the best materials for your project. Get a quote and ensure your signage makes a lasting impression! 


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