Stick-Built Signs vs. Manufactured Signs

Sometimes choosing a sign gets confusing when you're trying to figure out exactly what you're getting.  Important details to ask about is how the sign is engineered and what materials are used – and how it will be installed into the ground.   The following feature-benefits outline the differences between a fully manufactured sign versus a local, stick-built sign.

Manufactured Signs

1. Quality Control – A team that checks the work of those building the sign for any quality concerns.
2. Superior Engineering – Thought-through and time-tested manufacturing that starts below the ground right up to the top of the sign, giving it substantial longevity and wind load rating (at least 120MPH).
3. Superior Fit and Finish – Details like even paint and seams with the sign fitting together well, giving it a professional, finished appearance.
4. That "New Sign" Look – Quality materials including a baked on, powder coat painting process, keep the sign looking brand new much longer.
5. Lifespan – A manufactured sign's lifespan is measured in decades, which means an overall lower cost of ownership and more years of use before replacement is necessary.
6. UL Listing – A complete, UL listed product offers peace of mind that you can count on.
7. Warranty – One warranty, covering defects in workmanship or materials for all components.
8. Technical Support – U.S.-based, in-house technical support and a robust Q&A website means you don't have to worry about getting help when you need it.

Local "Stick-Built" Signs

1. Limited Quality Control – Generally, there is no QC department and defects may not be caught before getting to the customer.
2. Limited Wind Load – The structural integrity and installation method may cause the sign to topple in windy conditions, especially over time.
3. Components – Supplies tend to come from the lowest bidding vendor, which change often as a result, making part identification and replacement a challenge.
4. Consistency – If there is a lack of templates, engineer drawings and other benchmarks, each sign is built a little differently than the one before it.
5. Longevity – Most stick-built signs are only made to last a few years, both outside and inside.
6. Third-party Warranties – Most have multiple warranties, one for each of the various components being used.
7. Third-party Support – Your technical support may be outsourced or handled by the same contact who is also concentrating on closing newer sales.