One of the most important ways to make sure your sign project is successful, is to know where your sign will come from. When researching sign companies, you will want to know about their business reputation, company longevity, customer service, and much more. As a trusted partner for sign projects for over 50 years, we have compiled a list of questions you should ask during your research and why they are essential.
How long has your company been in business?
Knowing how long a company has been in business is essential for many reasons. One of the most important reasons being, that they will certainly be around for the lifetime of your sign. With your LED sign being a display technology, you will want to be confident that the company you choose will still be in business to offer support as needed. We often receive calls from customers with non-Stewart signs seeking service for their sign due to the original company being out of business. Don’t let this be you.
Are there any signs in my area that I can visit?
Being able to see an installed outdoor sign in person helps with your buying experience in many ways. One of those ways is being able to see the company’s product in action. Having a visual of the product you are researching, will better help you understand exactly what you’re getting. Visiting a sign in your area will also allow you the opportunity to speak with the organization that purchased it for a referral.
Is your complete sign manufactured by you?
It is important to make sure the sign company you choose to purchase your outdoor LED sign from is a manufacturer and not just a broker or integrator. This reason is because brokers purchase the sign or its major components on behalf of the customer. Integrators assemble signs from components purchased elsewhere. When using brokers and integrators, middlemen are involved which leads to an increase in pricing and the possibility of your components not fitting together properly. When you purchase from a manufacturer, they are building their complete sign product in a controlled environment. Any warranty or service needed would be handled by the same company, ensuring that you get the most value for your investment.
Is your complete sign UL Listed?
UL listings are important because it verifies that your sign meets quality and safety standards. To become UL Listed, manufacturers must submit to extensive examinations of their products and their processes. For a company to maintain their UL listing or certification, they must submit to quarterly reviews of their manufacturing facilities. Since the verifications are updated regularly, you know that the company didn't just pass a single check; rather, they continuously work hard to meet specific quality standards. Having a UL Listed product shows that a company took the time earn those certifications and indicates that they care about their customers and the quality of their products.
Who do I contact if I have questions about my sign, software, warranty claims, or other service issues? Most sign brokers and integrators only support the dealer, not the end user. As a sign manufacturer, Stewart Signs provides all support and warranty service. Our team of dedicated, in-house, and US-based technical support representatives will handle all your service needs.
