Protect Your Business Signage from Summer Heat Damage

This summer, as Michigan feels the heat, your business signage is facing a silent threat. Extreme heat isn’t just uncomfortable for us; it can seriously impact the longevity, appearance, and effectiveness of your outdoor signs. Ignoring these effects can lead to costly repairs and a diminished brand image, especially when the mercury soars across our state.

How Extreme Heat Affects Your Signs

• Fading and Discoloration: Prolonged exposure to UV rays and high temperatures causes colors to fade, especially vibrant ones. Your bright, eye-catching sign can quickly look dull and dated.
• Warping and Cracking: Materials like acrylic and certain plastics can soften and warp under extreme heat. Different materials expand and contract at different rates, leading to stress, cracking, or even components popping off.
• Adhesive Failure: Heat can weaken adhesives, causing vinyl graphics to peel or sign components to come loose.
• Electrical Component Failure (for Lit Signs): Illuminated signs, especially those with LEDs, generate their own heat. When combined with high ambient temperatures, this can cause internal electrical components to overheat and burn out, leading to sections of your sign going dark.
• Paint Degradation: Cheap paints or those without proper UV inhibitors can crack, peel, or become blotchy.

Investing in the right materials upfront is your best defense against heat-related damage. At Phillips Sign and Lighting, we understand the unique challenges Michigan weather presents, and we can help you customize the perfect sign, ensuring you select materials that stand up to the toughest summer days. We specialize in various signs, including channel letters, pylon signs, monument signs, LED signage, vehicle wraps, and more.

Action Items to Beat the Heat

Here’s what you can do to protect your investment and keep your signs looking sharp:

1. Choose Heat-Resistant Materials: We always choose the best materials and coatings when designing signs for our clients.
   • Aluminum, Acrylic (Plexiglass), Polycarbonate, HDU (High-Density Urethane), Dibond, and Fiberglass
   • Protective Coatings and Quality Paints. Make sure your sign installers have the expertise to protect against future heat concerns.
2. Regular Maintenance is Key:
   • Clean Regularly: Dirt, dust, and debris can trap heat and contain corrosive compounds. A gentle cleaning with mild soap and water can make a big difference.
   • Inspect Frequently: Look for early signs of damage like fading, cracking, loose components, or lighting issues. Catching problems early saves money in the long run. We provide routine maintenance, cleaning, and repairs to keep your sign in excellent condition.
3. Consider Placement and Design:
   • Color Choices: While black backgrounds can look sleek, they absorb more heat. In extremely hot climates like what we’ve been experiencing in Michigan, lighter colors might be a more practical choice for longevity.

Let Phillips Sign & Lighting Help Your Brand Stay Cool

By being proactive and making informed choices about materials and maintenance, you can ensure your business signage continues to attract customers and represent your brand effectively, even when the mercury soars. Contact Phillips Sign and Lighting today, and let us help you design a sign that not only looks great but is built to last through any season Michigan throws at it.