Monument Signs or Pylon Signs: Which One Fits Your Business Needs?

Companies planning to invest in new business signs may be exploring monument and pylon signs. Each of these types of signs offers features that elevate the business’s visibility. Settling on the right sign requires knowing which one best meets current business needs.

Monument signs and pylon signs are similar in that they attract the attention of passersby, consumers, and potential visitors. However, the key difference between these two signs is height. The height of a business sign impacts its visibility by the intended audience.

What is a monument sign?

A monument sign is a sturdy, permanent business sign that typically sits at ground level at the main entrance to an office building. This type of sign is usually used in single-tenant buildings. While built to appear visually attractive, the monument sign does not serve as an advertisement.

The aesthetic of monument signs is designed to blend in with the surrounding environment. For example, this type of sign may be paired with gardens, foliage, or rockwork. The business that installs a monument sign may hire a separate company to perform the landscaping.

Height is a differentiating marker in a monument sign. A typical monument sign is installed at eye level. This means the sign usually stands five feet tall. More prominent monument signs, such as those in front of hotels and hospitals, may reach heights of 8 to 12 feet.

What is a pylon sign?

Unlike a monument sign, a pylon sign is installed in front of buildings with multiple tenants, such as plazas, shopping malls, and business parks. All the tenants share the sign space. Pylon signs, while being visible from a distance, function best when they are installed closer to the street.

Also, unlike monument signs, the pylon sign space is leveraged for advertising. A business that installs a pylon sign benefits from its stylistic flexibility; in fact, the pylon sign can advertise one business or several. Temporary slats are swapped out to promote different products or services.

Pylon signs are significantly taller than ground-level monument signs. Starting at 20 feet in height and upward, pylon signs are built to be seen from a far distance. Especially when placed near highways, pylon signs can reach up to 100 feet tall.

Which sign fits a business’s needs?

As is clear, monument signs and pylon signs come in different proportions and serve various purposes. When a business is in the process of deciding on either of these signs, they must start with their goals. Once the sign’s objective is identified, tackle the structure and appearance.

1. Choose monument signs to convey an enduring message

A monument sign may be appropriate when a business aims to install a permanent sign near the entrance. This area receives high foot traffic or slow vehicle traffic, making the sign visible to passersby. Being ground level, the monument sign can be read without having to look up at it.

The monument sign is not mounted to a building or other structure but rather connects directly to the ground below. As a freestanding sign, the monument sign serves as a landmark. This indicates to customers, guests, and visitors that they are approaching their intended destination.

Businesses aiming for a sophisticated presentation opt for the classic monument sign. This type of sign is smaller than a pylon sign, making it suitable for businesses with limited space. Plus, monument signs allow for intricate designs, which makes them perfect for expressing a unique brand identity.

Low-cost and low-maintenance, monument signs are ideal for small businesses or those with limited budgets. These signs are easily maintained, since they sit at ground level. Plus, monument signs, built with durable materials, offer a greater lifespan than pylon signs.

2. Choose pylon signs to advertise products or services

A pylon sign is ideal when a business wants to convey bits of information on one sign. Since the slats on the pylon sign can be removed and re-installed readily, they can be used to effectively advertise seasonal goods or special services.  

Due to their height, recognizability, and visibility, pylon signs are best installed in front of shopping centers with multiple tenants or near the road. Businesses that are located away from the main roads benefit most from the bold advertising power of pylon signs.

Pylon signs offer a greater amount of space than monument signs. As a result, a business can communicate multiple business names or install larger logos. Businesses that aim to stand out in crowded areas or make a statement opt for the pylon sign’s bright colors and eye-catching styles.

The harsh Midwestern weather can make maintaining pylon signs more expensive. However, they offer a larger canvas for the business’s message, making the bigger investment worth the cost. Customers and visitors are sure to see a prominent pylon sign, which is a powerful advertising tool.

Call Divine Signs and Graphics

The outdoor business sign you choose plays a major role in showcasing your company’s brand. When a monument sign fits your business needs, Divine Signs and Graphics will work with you to conceptualize a design that incorporates your brand, then securely and professionally install the sleek, elegant sign.

We offer a diverse range of material options, such as metal, concrete, and masonry in varying styles and colors. Our dedicated sign design team sources durable, weather-resistant materials, which produce a longer-lasting sign. We can work within any budget constraints to create sturdy monument signs.

Our exterior signage can be installed at parking lot entrances, corporate centers, and schools, among many other types of buildings. Whether you prefer sheer elegance or understated simplicity, we’ll ensure your monument sign meets your desired aesthetic and attracts guests over the years.

Divine Signs and Graphics is Schaumburg’s most trusted sign design company. With a friendly team of designers and experienced installation crews, your monument sign is in the best hands. Contact our Schaumburg, Illinois, office today to discuss your vision for a stunning outdoor business sign.

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