When it’s time to invest in new commercial building signs for your business, the options can feel overwhelming; our buyer’s guide to commercial building signs is here to help you make an informed decision.

Materials, sizes, colours, finishes, installation methods – the list goes on. Add in budget, planning permissions, and long-term durability, and it’s no wonder so many business owners put it off!

The truth is commercial building signs are one of the most powerful marketing tools you’ll ever buy. They work 24/7, build brand recognition, and they tell your customers who you are before they’ve even walked through the door. Done right, good signage pays for itself many times over.

So how do you make the right choices? In this buyer’s guide to commercial building signs, we’ll answer the most common questions we hear from clients every day to help you navigate the process with confidence.

Understanding the range of commercial building signs available is crucial for enhancing your business visibility.

Why does building signage matter so much?

First impressions count. Studies show that over 70% of customers say building appearance influences their decision to enter a business. Poorly designed, faded, or inconsistent signs create doubt, while clear and professional signs build trust.

Think of your signage as your “silent salesperson.” It should:

Communicate what your business does
Reflect your brand values
Be visible and legible from the right distance
Withstand the elements and last for years

What types of building signs should I consider?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right signage depends on your business type, location, and audience. Some of the most popular options include:

Fascia Signs

The main sign above your shop, office, or unit. Essential for brand visibility.

Illuminated Signs

Illuminated signs are useful commercial building signs ensuring your brand is seen day and night if in a high traffic environment. Using LEDs or lightboxes, these ensure your brand is visible day and night.

Window Graphics

A cost-effective way to promote services, create privacy, or add branding.

Vehicle Signwriting & Wraps

Turn your van, car, or fleet into mobile billboards.

Internal Wayfinding

Wayfinding, reception branding, health and safety signs, or wall graphics.

Totem & Monolith Signs

Freestanding, high-impact signs often used at business parks or entrances.

What materials are best for building signs?

This is one of the most common questions we get asked regarding commercial building signs, and with good reason. Materials affect cost, durability, and finish. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Aluminium Composite (ACM) – Lightweight, rigid, weather-resistant. Ideal for shop fascias.
Acrylic – Sleek, modern look, great for internal or illuminated signs.
Vinyl Graphics – Flexible, affordable, and widely used on windows, vehicles, and walls.
Wood or Traditional Materials – Perfect for heritage projects or rustic brands.
Steel or Aluminium – Hardwearing, often used for industrial sites and directional signs.

How much should I budget for signage?

Signage pricing varies enormously, but budgeting for commercial building signs is crucial, think of it as an investment for long-term marketing.

A simple set of window vinyls might be £150, while a full shop fascia with illumination can run into several thousand pounds.

A useful rule of thumb: budget for signage as you would for a key marketing campaign such as a new website.

A well-designed sign isn’t a short-term expense; it’s an investment with a lifespan of 5–10 years. 5 years is 1825 days, a £3000 investment in signage broken down is £1.65 per day which gives the investment a different perspective.

Remember also: we offer interest-free payment plans to spread the cost, making professional signage accessible without straining your cash flow.

Do I need planning permission?

It’s essential to understand if your new commercial building signs require planning permission.

This depends on the size, type, and location of your signage. In most cases, especially if you’re replacing like-for-like, you won’t need permission.

However, if you’re in a conservation area, listed building, or planning a large illuminated sign, you may need approval, see our Knowledge Centre post for more on illuminated signage planning permissions.

A good signage partner will guide you through this and handle the paperwork if needed. Don’t let the red tape put you off, it’s usually simpler than you think.

How do I make sure my signage stands out?

This comes down to three things:

Design

Clear fonts, strong colours, and the right use of your logo. Avoid clutter.

Placement

A sign in the wrong place (too high, too small, facing the wrong way) is wasted money.

Consistency

To ensure your commercial building signs stand out, focus on design, placement, and consistency.

Match your signage with your other branding: vehicles, uniforms, website, brochures. A joined-up look builds trust.

Can I install it myself?

Some simple vinyls can be DIY-installed, but most business signage is best left to professionals. Correct installation ensures:

The sign is secure and safe
It complies with health & safety standards
It looks neat, straight, and professional
It lasts as long as it should

How long will my signage last?

This depends on materials and exposure. A high-quality ACM fascia can last 7-10 years. Vehicle wraps usually last 3-5 years depending on mileage and care. Window vinyls can last up to 5 years, though cheaper options may fade sooner.

Ask your signage supplier about warranties and lifespan so you can budget for replacement when the time comes.

What’s the process of getting new building signage?

At The Sussex Sign Company, we keep it simple:

First an onsite Consultation & Survey

We visit your site, understand your needs, and take measurements.

Second Design & Visual creation for approval

Our design team creates proofs so you can see exactly how your signage will look.

Sign Manufacture & Production

We manufacture your signage using quality materials.

Sign Installation

Our trained team installs safely and professionally.

Building Sign Aftercare

We’re always here for maintenance, updates, or new projects.

Final Thoughts

Investing in commercial building signs will yield valuable returns for your business, choosing new signage doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is to ask the right questions:

What’s my goal with this signage?
What materials suit my environment and budget?
How can I ensure the design is effective and on-brand?
Who will handle installation and aftercare?

The answers will point you towards the right solution.

If you’d like us to help explore your options, we’d be happy to guide you, whether it’s a simple window graphic, a fleet rebrand, or a complete site signage package.

Your signage is your most visible, hard-working marketing tool.

Invest wisely, and it will keep paying dividends for years to come.

Ultimately, your commercial building signs are an essential aspect of your business identity.