Call us at (805) 641-1387


Call us today for an Estimate at (805) 641-1387 or

Request a Quote Online

Call us at (805) 641-1387


How to Choose the Right Outdoor Building Signs

Choosing the right outdoor building signs is essential to the success of your company, no matter where you are located – Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles or Nationwide. There are many factors to consider when choosing exterior signage, including size, shape, material, design, and whether or not it’s going to be a lighted sign. The most important factor is to choose a sign that accurately reflects your brand identity.

AES channel letter building signs in Long Beach, CA. Design, fabrication and installation using existing branding guidelines.
AES channel letter signs in Long Beach, CA. Design, fabrication and installation using existing branding guidelines.

If you’re thinking about investing in outdoor building signs for your business, keep reading to learn what you’ll need to know about choosing the right signs for your organization.

Introduction: Why custom building signage is important for businesses

Building Signs – Toppers Pizza Place channel letter sign in Valencia, CA. Dave's Signs services all 10 locations.
Toppers Pizza Place channel letter sign in Valencia, CA. Dave’s Signs services all 10 locations.

Custom outdoor building signs are one of the most important marketing tools for businesses. They help to identify your business to potential customers, and they can be used to convey unique and important information about your products or services. Signs can also be used to create a sense of brand visibility, helping to build customer loyalty.

In addition, custom exterior signs can help you to stand out from your competition and make your business more visible in the community. Outdoor signs play an essential role in the success of any business. If you are not using building signs to promote your business, you are missing out on a powerful marketing tool.

The different types of building signs available

There are a variety of building signs available to suit the needs of any business. Here are a few of the most popular.

Blade Signs

Building Signs – Midici Wood Fired Pizza illuminated lightbox blade sign in downtown Ventura, CA. Easy to see for passersby.
Midici Wood Fired Pizza illuminated lightbox blade sign in downtown Ventura, CA. Easy to see for passersby.

Blade signs are a popular choice for many businesses, as they are highly visible and can be mounted on a building’s wall or eave. These signs are also called projecting signs, hanging signs, and flat panel signs. They are ideal for strip malls, downtown businesses, and areas with high pedestrian traffic.

If your business has a sidewalk in front, installing a blade sign is an excellent way to increase foot traffic and boost sales. They also make it easier to see when driving by because the viewer can see the sign looking forward without having to turn their head.

Dimensional Letters

Building Signs – Motion Industries dimensional letter sign in Oxnard, CA.
Motion Industries dimensional letter building sign in Oxnard, CA.

Dimensional letters are also quite popular, as they give a building’s facade depth and dimension. Dimensional letter signs use three-dimensional lettering or a custom logo (as opposed to flat panels).

Metal letters, plastic cut letters, or 3-D graphics are also known as dimensional letter signs. They’re not only appealing and weather resistant but also cost-effective, making them a great choice for anybody looking to have a high-quality sign on a tighter budget. When paired with spotlights, they look fantastic, ensuring that the sign is seen at night and during the evening hours.

Illuminated Signs

Building Signs – Gary Marshall Theatre illuminated signs in Burbank, CA by Dave's Signs.
Gary Marshall Theatre illuminated signs in Burbank, CA by Dave’s Signs.

Illuminated signs are an excellent choice for businesses that want to stand out, as they can be seen even at night or in low-light conditions. Whatever the need, there is a building sign that can help businesses to reach their target audience. If your business is open at night, lighted signs are an absolute necessity. Not only do they help people find and engage with your business, but they provide high visibility day and night.

Channel Letters

Building Signs – The Ivy Mae Salon channel letter sign in Ventura, CA. Clean and sophisticated custom lighted signs.
The Ivy Mae Salon channel letter sign in Ventura, CA. Clean and sophisticated custom-lighted signs.

Channel letters are another popular option for outdoor signs, as they can be custom-sized to fit any space and are illuminated for greater visibility.

Channel letters are three-dimensional illuminated letters and graphics that are often seen on stores at shopping centers, restaurants, specialty stores, and pretty much every type of business location. They’re an excellent way to identify your business. By forming each letter separately and giving it its own light source, you create an effect that is sure to impress potential customers.

Neon Signs

Building Signs – Tony's Pizzaria marquee neon sign with casino lighting - Sign fabrication and installation in Ventura, CA.
Tony’s Pizzaria marquee neon sign with casino lighting – Sign fabrication and installation in Ventura, CA.

Neon signs are a popular type of lighted sign that uses neon gas to create a bright, attention-getting display. Neon signs were first developed in the early 1900s, and they quickly became a popular way to advertise businesses and products.

Today, neon signs are used for a wide variety of purposes, from promoting businesses to highlighting landmarks and tourist attractions. Neon signs are often considered to be works of art, and they are still a popular choice for outdoor signs.

Neon signs are durable and long-lasting, and they can be customized to fit any need. Whether you’re looking for a simple business sign or an iconic work of art, neon signs offer an eye-catching solution.

Monument Signs

Building Signs – Star of CA monument sign with halo-lit channel letters, dimensional letters and external ground lights in Ventura, CA.
Star of CA monument sign with halo-lit channel letters, dimensional letters and external ground lights in Ventura, CA. 

Monument signs are a type of signage that is freestanding and usually located at the entrance of a business park, shopping mall, hotel, restaurant, or residential community, like an apartment complex.

This type of outdoor sign is often made out of stone, brick, or concrete to give them a more permanent look.

For businesses, monument signs can be an excellent way to advertise your company name and logo to customers driving or walking by. Most often, these are lighted signs using many forms, including channel letters, dimensional letters, and lightbox signs – shopping malls with individual business names added, for example.

Monument signs are also commonly used in parks and other public spaces to help visitors find their way around.

In addition to their practical purposes, monument signs can also be used to add aesthetic appeal to a property. Well-designed monument signs can be eye-catching and make a positive first impression on visitors.

If you are looking for a way to improve the visibility and curb appeal of your business or public space, a monument sign may be the ideal solution.

Pylon Signs

Ganas Auto pole sign in Oxnard, CA. We used the existing structure to make this sign.
Ganas Auto pole sign in Oxnard, CA. We used the existing structure to make this sign.

Pylon signs, aka pole signs, are a type of freestanding business sign that is often used for advertising businesses or promoting special events. Pylon signs are usually tall and thin, with a large base that helps to stabilize the structure. The height of pylon signs makes them highly visible from a distance, which is ideal for getting the attention of potential customers or passersby.

Pylon signs can be lit from within, making them visible even at night or in low-light conditions. Additionally, pylon signs are often double-sided so that they can be seen from both directions on a busy street.

Pylon signs are a versatile and effective way to get your message out, and they can be customized to fit your specific needs.

Typically, pylon signs can be updated using an existing structure when a new business moves in or is looking to update its outdoor signs.

Wayfinding Signs

Lifetech Resources in Moorpark, CA. One of a series of wayfinding monument signs created by Dave's Signs.
Lifetech Resources in Moorpark, CA. One of a series of wayfinding monument signs created by Dave’s Signs.

Wayfinding signs are invaluable tools for helping people navigate their way around unfamiliar places. By providing clear and concise directions, wayfinding signs can help people to avoid getting lost or disoriented.

These directional signs can be found in a variety of settings, including shopping malls, office buildings, hospitals, and airports. In many cases, these informational signs are designed to blend in with their surroundings, making them easy to miss if you’re not looking for them. However, their simple design can often be misleading, as their straightforward appearance can disguise the complex task of navigation they perform.

Wayfinding signs may not always be the most exciting things to look at, but they play a vital role in helping us get to where we want to go.

How to choose the right building signs for your business

Lifetech Resources dimensional letter monument sign in Moorpark, CA.
Lifetech Resources dimensional letter monument sign in Moorpark, CA.

When it comes to promoting your business, exterior signs are an important investment. Not only do they help customers find your location, but they also create a first impression of your brand. With so many different types of exterior signage available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your business. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing exterior signs:

First, consider the location of your sign

Bank of the Sierra monument sign. One of several locations we did around Southern California.
Bank of the Sierra monument sign. One of several locations we did around Southern California.

Will it be visible from the street? Is it in a high-traffic area? The placement of your sign will impact its effectiveness, so be sure to choose a location that will maximize visibility.

Second, think about the type of sign that will best match your brand identity

Bank of the Sierra channel letter sign. One of many locations we did around Southern California.
Bank of the Sierra channel letter sign. One of many locations we did around Southern California.

Are you looking for something traditional or modern? Eye-catching or understated? The right sign should reflect the personality of your company and help you stand out from the competition.

Third, don’t forget to consider your budget

Building signs come in a wide range of prices, so it’s important to set a realistic budget before you start shopping. By taking the time to consider all of these factors, you can be sure to choose the right exterior sign for your business.

Finally, talk to a commercial sign company like Dave’s Signs

One of several large channel letter signs we did for the new Wagon Wheel Community in Oxnard, CA.
One of several large channel letter signs we did for the new Wagon Wheel Community in Oxnard, CA.

We can help you understand the different sign options available.

From sign planning, assistance with the city permitting process, sign design ideas, fabrication, and installation.

We can help you find an effective way to get your business noticed while staying in compliance with your building’s features and city requirements.

Exterior signage is an important part of any business, so it’s important to choose the right signs for your needs. By considering the location, types, and budget for your signs, you can be sure to find options that will help you attract customers and promote your brand.

Just as important is choosing the right commercial signage company with the experience and expertise to help you plan, design, and fabricate the ideal solution.

Whether you need a custom logo designed or already have a brand identity system in place. We can design and build your outdoor business signs – dimensional letters, logo signs, pole signs, lighted signs, channel letters, blade signs, or any type of custom sign – that’s what we do.

Conclusion: why you should invest in outdoor signs for your business

Lifetech Resources channel letter sign in Moorpark, CA.
Lifetech Resources channel letter sign in Moorpark, CA.
Blue Mountain Christian Fellowship dimensional letter monument sign we shipped to Wala Wala, Washington.
Blue Mountain Christian Fellowship dimensional letter monument sign we shipped to Wala Wala, Washington.

Outdoor signs are a great way to make your business stand out from the competition.

Exterior signs are one of the first things that customers and potential customers will see when they visit your business, so it’s important to make sure that your building sign is eye-catching and visible.

Outdoor signage helps improve the curb appeal of your business, making it more attractive to customers and passers-by. A well-designed building sign can help to communicate your brand message and increase your name recognition.

And because outdoor signage is durably built and weather resistant, it can provide many years of service with minimal maintenance.

If you’re looking for a way to improve the visibility of your business and reach more customers – a custom outdoor sign is a great investment.

Contact Dave’s Signs for Your Outdoor Building Signs

The Hills Apartments monument sign using dimensional letters in Thousand Oaks, CA.
The Hills Apartments monument sign in Thousand Oaks, CA uses dimensional letters.

Dave’s Signs has been creating custom signs for businesses of all types for over 20+ years, and we can help you make the perfect signs for your needs. We work with you from start to finish, from design to installation, to make sure your signs are exactly what you want.

Contact Dave’s Signs today to get started on your outdoor building signs.

Whether you are located in Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles Counties, or nationwide. Pick up the phone and call us at‭ ‭(805) 641-1387‬‬ or contact us online. We are always happy to help and answer any questions you may have.

4 Monument Sign Trends for 2021 that Promote Identity

If you want your business to make a huge impact, why not use a monument sign? These popular signs really draw the eye and create landmarks for people passing by. Designing your signage can be challenging and rewarding, but the most important point is to make sure they promote your business identity effectively. Here are 4 monument sign trends for 2021 that are sure to convey yours.

#1:  Adding LED Illumination

monument sign LED lighting

monument sign is a ground sign that typically has a low profile. They come illuminated or non-illuminated. If you really want to catch everyone’s attention, then consider an illuminated approach. Dave’s Signs uses ground lighting for a spotlight effect. However, we can also add internal lighting to the sign.  Beautiful LED lighting is a popular choice because it is so long-lasting and reduces your carbon footprint. If you are going for a modern look with a touch of classic, then LED lighting is your best bet.

#2:  Enhancing Your Existing Architecture

Elements of masonry and wood, or foam that replicates these materials, give ample opportunity to match your monument sign to your building’s architecture. Color and style of the sign can also compliment the landscape theme. A professional sign company uses these elements to streamline the design of your building, creating a  consistent aesthetic and feel. This will give your business an opportunity to build brand recognition by creating a consistent look and feel throughout.

#3: Using Foam Fabrication Replicas

Since the cost of masonry is sometimes a deal-breaker for some companies, using foam in its place can save money. Surprisingly, these replicas mimic the appearance and benefits of the real thing when they are professionally done. Foam monument signs with veneer imitators of stone and brick look just as classy and are plenty durable, too.

#4. Highly Visible Curved Designs

Curved signs are another popular sign trend and ones with professional designs are quite impressive. They can be fabricated from wood, brick, stucco, high-density urethane or from concrete. The curved dimension to these signs additionally makes them visible from many directions.

Dave’s Signs creates Beautiful Signs in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles Counties and Nationwide. Branding Your Business and giving it an identity is the only path to success – we offer a wide array of custom monument signage and graphics solutions that will highlight and promote yours. If you would like to know more, please get in touch with us at (805) 641-1387. Or contact us online for a quote.

Wagon Wheel Town Square Landmark Sign

Dave’s Signs is pleased to announce that Oakwood Communities picked them to create and install their Wagon Wheel town square landmark sign. We are excited and honored to be a part of the project due to its significance. The big monument is the crown of the development, a “Meet me at the big W,” so to speak.

Wagon Wheel Landmark Sign

What Oakwood Wanted in the New Landmark Signs

The goal was to make a landmark sign that would make a statement and enhance the surrounding community. In the case of the WW sign, Oakwood Communities wanted a large focal piece for their town square. There are two of these signs that will anchor the community. The second one is still in fabrication.

Why Did They Contact Dave’s Signs?

Dave’s Signs has been working a little over a year on Oakwood’s extensive sign program. The real estate developer contacted us for help in designing all of their property signs for their new master-planned community at Wagon Wheel Junction.

Our Role in the Bigger Picture

This project has been an ongoing one. Not only have we been working with the city and going through their approval process for the various sign programs. We’ve coordinated with all the contractors, and stonemasons as part of a team so everything stays on schedule and budget.

Structural Challenges of the Landmark Sign

WW sign being hoisted for one of the landmark signs

WW Landmark Sign in Oxnard, CA

The WW sign is a custom fabricated large scale aluminum sculpture. A lot of structural engineering went into getting this sign to function. The finished sculpture has a height of about nine feet, with two posts anchoring it on top of a pedestal. With the pedestal, the sign stands at about fourteen feet tall.

Giving the sculpture enough structural rigidity to withstand the elements.

Designs Made from Rough Client Sketches

Oakwood Communities provided a rough drawing of the logo, and we cleaned it up to what is now the sign. 

WW sign detail

What’s Next?

The landmark WW sign is installed at Wagon Wheel Junction’s Fountain Square. We received feedback that Oakwood Communities is quite happy with the result, as are all the contractors and other vendors working on the construction site. Currently, we are working on the second Wagon Wheel landmark sign, and it’s in the middle of fabrication.  We are looking forward to the installation and all that comes next.

Stay tuned for more details!

If you are looking for an experienced sign company to design, fabricate, and install your landmark sign idea give us a call at ‭(805) 641-1387‬ or reach out to us online.

Dave’s Signs Blog

This is a blog about signs. We highlight the different types of signs: signs we’ve created for our customers, history of sign design and today’s cutting edge sign technologies. Ask a question about signs, and you’ll likely find the answer here.

Case Studies

Spencer Makenzies Neon Sign

Here we go into detail on some of the custom signs we’ve done. Including Spencer Makenzie’s Neon Sign, Topper’s Pizza Neon Signs in the Oxnard Harbor, and The Historic Ventura Pole Sign. Check back with us. We’ll have more case studies of signs posted in the near future.

Custom Signs Near You

Saloon BBQ Custom Sign

We’ve designed, fabricated, installed and serviced signs all over southern California. Here are some highlighted areas near you including Ventura, Oxnard and Santa Barbara. Check back soon for more updates.

Call us today for an Estimate at (805) 641-1387 or

Request a Quote Online

Call us at (805) 641-1387


Neon Sign Design Computer

We Make Beautiful Neon Signs in Our On-Site Facility

Dave’s Signs has perfected the art of neon signs. We can handle all sizes of neon signage, from the small intricate signs to the eye-catching, large neon signs. Ask us for a personalized quote or contact us for any questions you may have about neon signage.

See Our Neon Sign Gallery


Dave’s Signs Makes Custom Office Signs

Whether you need a lobby sign, directional signage or ADA signs, Dave’s Signs can help you with all your office sign needs. We can use your logo and create a beautiful, distinctive sign for your office. We can also create custom building directory signs, suite signs, and directional signs to give the building a unique unified theme. Call us today to help you with all your office sign needs.

See Our Custom Signs

Custom Sign Design Grove Avenue