If you’re opening a new business in Richmond or replacing an old sign, you’re probably wondering how much a new sign will cost. After all, you want something that catches people’s attention without going over your budget.
The thing is, not all business signs cost the same. A small wall or lobby sign outside an office will usually cost less than a large, illuminated storefront sign.
When it comes to commercial signage cost in Richmond, VA, the cost depends on the sign’s size, materials, lighting, and installation. Even two signs that look similar can have different price tags.
So, before you decide how much to spend, let’s look at what affects commercial sign pricing and what you should know before requesting a quote.
How Much Does a Commercial Building Sign Cost in Richmond, VA?
So, how much should you actually set aside for a commercial building sign in Richmond? Building signs typically cost around $1,000 to several thousand. Installation may add another $800 to $2,500, depending on the sign’s size, location, and complexity.
These are just rough estimates, though. Some companies include installation in their pricing, while others charge separately. It’s best to get a quote so you know what to expect.
What Affects Commercial Signage Costs?
Several factors can affect the price of your business sign. Even similar-looking signs can cost different amounts. Estimates at one sign company for a similar-looking sign can be different from another sign company. A sign can be made in different ways with different types of materials. Let’s look at what makes the difference.
Sign Type
Choosing the right kind of signage matters a lot in terms of budget. For example, a plain vinyl banner will be significantly cheaper than illuminated channel signs.
Large signs will, in turn, require higher costs when it comes to materials & installation, as they require more effort in terms of construction and the installation process, including digging, concrete work, and electrical work.
Sign Dimensions
Although larger signs use more materials and can therefore be more expensive than smaller signs, smaller signs that employ complex writing, unique shapes, and illumination can also turn out to be more costly than simple large signs.
Materials
The price is directly impacted by the choice of material. In terms of materials, potential options are acrylic, aluminum, vinyl, ACM, plastic, and polycarbonate. Each material can have its own pricing, durability, and maintenance requirements. Hence, when coming up with the design for your outdoor signs, you should use a strong enough material that can withstand the whims of Richmond weather.
Illumination
Interested in making your signage visible during the night? There are options for lighting choices like front-lit, back-lit, halo-lit, edge-lit, and electric signs. Each lighting option has its own unique features and cost. The design of your signage may introduce more expenses with possible electrical work involved.
Mounting and Site Access
Where you install your sign also affects the price. A sign near the ground is usually easier to install than one high up on a building. Brick walls, tight spaces, and special equipment like lifts are also factors that affect commercial sign installation cost.
Permits
As per the area you belong to and the type of sign, there may be a necessity to get permissions or gain the landlord’s acceptance. Areas like Richmond and its neighborhoods may have varied provisions regarding the same, and hence, make sure to go through the conditions prior to getting the sign made. Besides getting approval from the landlord, you must also take care of the city and county permits.
Installation Scope
Putting a sign up may seem like an easy job. However, the process of putting up your sign may involve removing old signs and renting a bucket truck or lift. You might also have to fix the wall before putting up your new sign or hire an electrical contractor to do the lighting. All the work required makes the installation more costly than initially planned.
How Project Needs Change the Budget
One Sign vs. A Coordinated Interior and Exterior Package
Every business has different signage needs. A small boutique might only need a storefront sign and window graphics, while a medical office may need lobby signs, directional signs, and ADA signage to guide patients.
The cost of indoor and outdoor business signs depends on how many you need, their size, and the materials used. If you’re getting several signs, planning them together can help keep your branding consistent.
Single Site vs. Multiple Locations
If there is more than one shop in your company, you need to take into account some differences in terms of the costs for the signage for a shop as well. Even if it uses the same design, one particular shop can require a bigger sign or other installation methods.
Also, it is worth considering that each shop usually has its own permits and installation instructions; that is why it is necessary to include the costs in your budget planning process.
What Should a Signage Quote Include?
Ensure that you are well informed before being given a quote so that you can know just what you will be paying for. There may be some companies that offer their clients an all-inclusive package where everything is included along with the price of the service, while there are other companies that may add additional charges for some of their services.
Here’s what is included in a commercial signage quote that you should look for.
Design and Planning
Make sure to ask whether the cost mentioned includes any design, sketching, and amendments. If you already possess a company logo, find out with the firm whether the logo has to be modified before the desired product is ready.
Site Survey
A site survey will help us take accurate measurements, assess the current situation with wall materials, and check installation complexity. Be sure to find out if this is part of the quoted price.
Permits and Approvals
Inquire whether or not the firm deals with permits and permission from the property owner. You should find out if the cost of the permit is included in the quote or if it is an extra expense.
Fabrication
The price estimate should give the size of the marketing material, as well as the lighting type and structure of the sign it contains.
Installation
You need to ascertain if the rates include everything related to the work done, the delivery, mounting equipment, and any other equipment needed for the process, or if additional charges apply to them.
Electrical or Structural Work
Signs that light up might require electrical work to be done on them. Bigger signs may need some additional support to hold them up. Such additional services may lead to more expenses, so inquire whether the cost of such services is included in the price.
How to Compare Quotes Fairly
The lowest price doesn’t mean the best deal on the market. Some companies provide installation and permit assistance while others add extra payment for the same services.
When weighing which company is the best for the job, it is necessary to take into consideration essential points such as materials used in sign production, level of design complexity, size of the sign, lighting system applied, installation procedure, and warranty.
This way, you can compare commercial sign pricing and avoid unexpected costs later.
What to Prepare Before Requesting an Estimate
Want to know how to budget for a commercial signage project? Having a few details ready can help you get a more accurate quote.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Business address: Where do you plan to put up the sign?
- Sign type and size: What kind of sign do you wish to use?
- Logo and colors: Be prepared with your logo and brand colors.
- Location photos: Provide a wide, clear picture of the intended site. This will help the team come up with a mock-up quickly.
- Lighting: Will your sign be illuminated?
- Budget and timeline: What budget do you have in mind, and when do you need the sign?
Also, check with your owner for any prohibition against certain types of signage if you are renting.
Don’t worry if you haven’t figured everything out yet. A general idea of what you want is enough to get started and help you understand your custom business sign cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not necessarily. Some firms provide installation within the total cost, while others charge extra. It’s important to find out in advance what the terms of your quote are.
Yes, it is possible. The cost and duration of your signage project may necessitate permits or authorization depending on the specifics of your sign.
Absolutely possible! The specifics of the sign you want can impact the project timeline and cost, as you might need permits or approval for your signage project.
Get a Quote for Your Commercial Signage in Richmond, VA
Ready to get your business noticed? Whether you need a new storefront sign or want to update your existing signage, Equinox Custom Signs can help you find the right option for your space and budget.
Call us at 804-635-6462 or request a quote today!