Frequently Asked Questions

Sign Consultation
Do you offer sign consultation?
 
Sign Design
Do I need to bring you a sign design?
What type of art files do you accept?
What is a “proof?

Sign Estimate
How can I get an estimate?

Sign Production Process
What is the process for obtaining a sign(s)?

Sign Pricing
What will my sign(s) cost?
Do you have a catalog or price list that you can send me?

Sign Payment Terms
What are the payment terms for my signage?
Do you have sign leasing options available?

Sign Fabrication
How long will it take to fabricate my sign(s)?
What if I require a rapid turn-around time beyond normal fabrication time for my sign(s)?

Sign Installation
Can you provide installation for my sign(s)?
Can I purchase the sign and do my own installation?

Sign Permitting
Will my sign require a permit?
Can you obtain the sign permit for me or can I do it myself?
Will I need any kind of documentation to obtain a sign permit?

Sign Delivery/Shipping
Do you offer sign delivery or ship signs?

Sign Survey
What is a sign survey and do I need one?

Sign Repair/Re-face Services
Do you repair or re-face signs?

Other General Questions
Is Vital Signs a franchise?
Is Vital Signs affiliated with any sign trade organizations?
Can I provide feedback regarding my experience with Vital Signs?

Do you offer sign consultation?

Yes, Vital Signs will provide a free consultation to help you determine your signage needs. This consultation can be done via phone, by meeting in the Vital Signs showroom or at your business location.

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Do I need to bring you a sign design?

No. The Vital Signs design team will work with you to develop the
message and design of your sign. If you are working with a designer to develop your design, we encourage you to involve us early in the process. We can often minimize the time and cost of developing a design solution. We welcome the opportunity to become a partner on your team and routinely work with outside architects, designers and marketing professionals.

What is a “proof"?

A proof is a visual image of your sign design sent via email, fax or
or given by hard copy. Our proof process ensures that we have created your design to your specifications. You will see the sign design with sign measurements, colors, text and graphics. This is your opportunity to make any changes or approve the proof. We do not start production on your project until we have received your written approval. When possible, we will superimpose the sign design on/in your building/surface location to give you a better visual image of what the proposed sign will look like.

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How can I get an estimate?

You may complete our web site Request a Quote form or
contact us via phone, email, fax or by coming to the Vital Signs Showroom. Complex projects, such as permanent outdoor signs, may require site surveys, zoning reviews or other research in order to prepare your estimate. Additional time may be required before providing an estimate for these types of projects.

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What is the process for obtaining a sign(s)?

The production process starts after we have received your signed estimate. Our graphic design team will then prepare a proof for your approval. Your written approval of the artwork is required to be faxed, emailed or dropped off at Vital Signs before we begin production work. If there are special color requirements or PMS/Pantone colors which require matching, you should advise us during the consultation phase of the project.

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What will my sign(s) cost?

Our work is custom designed and fabricated to each customer’s individual needs. The price of your sign will depend entirely upon the complexity of the design, the fabrication, the materials and possible installation/permitting costs. We spend a great deal of time educating our customers about sign materials and options. If you have a new business and have multiple signage needs, we will be happy to develop a sign plan to prioritize your signage needs and work within your budget.

Do you have a catalog or price list that you can send me?

Because we are a custom sign company, Vital Signs does not offer a standardized price list. Sign samples, material options and project examples may be viewed in the Vital Signs Showroom or by visiting our web site photo gallery.

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What are the payment terms for my signage?

Vital Signs provides outstanding value, creative ideas, and superior customer service. In order to maintain these high standards at competitive prices, we keep our payment terms simple:

All terms are 50% down payment when the order is placed and the remaining balance is due upon pick up or installation.

We accept American Express, Discover, Visa, Mastercard, checks and cash.
Credit terms may be established for some corporate accounts after completing a credit application.

Do you have sign leasing options available?

Yes. We understand that the purchase of your sign(s) is a critical part of your business branding and can be a challenge to your marketing budget. High quality signage is an investment which can greatly add to your business success. We work with leasing providers who can offer flexibility and customized solutions for you.

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How long will it take to fabricate my sign(s)?

Because our signs are custom manufactured for each individual project, it is difficult to provide a standard turn-around time. Artwork, permitting, location, materials used and our production schedule can all significantly impact the time it takes to produce your sign. Vital Signs is very dedicated to making sure that you have your signs and displays when you need them.

Our standard policy is to have your sign(s) ready for pick-up by 5 p.m. on your “due date unless other arrangements have been made.

What if I require a rapid turn-around time beyond normal fabrication time for my sign(s)?

Vital Signs will do our very best to accommodate those “last minute projects, though rush charges will be incurred. Planning ahead is appreciated by the Vital Signs Team and your sign budget.

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Can you provide installation for my sign(s)?

Vital Signs provides sign installation services on most products when requested. Our installations are scheduled to meet customer requirements, however, we reserve the right to adjust the schedule to accommodate weather and other unforeseen issues that can occur during, or prior to an installation.

Can I purchase the sign and do my own installation?

Yes. Customers who wish to provide their own installation may do so. Vital Signs encourages you to research the zoning laws in your location to determine if a sign permit will be needed.

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Will my sign require a permit?

Exterior signs typically require a permit. Each municipality has established zoning codes which specify what type/size of sign(s) may be displayed. Check with your local zoning office to determine what signs you may install.

Can you obtain the sign permit for me or can I do it myself?

Vital Signs is happy to take care of the sign permit if you choose not to. This service is billed at our hourly rate with no mark-ups on the cost of the actual permit fees. You are allowed to obtain your own sign permit if you choose. Vital Signs encourages you to research the zoning codes in your municipality as some cities/townships or municipalities require the person obtaining the sign permit to be a licensed contractor in that city.

Will I need any kind of documentation to obtain a sign permit?

Yes. Many zoning offices require a detailed drawing/diagram of
the proposed sign measurements, material the sign is crafted from and how it will be mounted, a plot plan showing where it will be mounted on the building. Many cities require a Professional Engineer to review the sign and mounting method to ensure that the sign will be mounted properly to sustain wind load. Also, it will be necessary to have an occupancy permit for your business location. Prices for permits and related fees vary according to specific municipalities.

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Do you offer sign delivery or ship signs?

Yes. While Vital Signs does not typically offer local deliveries, we will help to arrange for delivery of your sign(s) by a local or long distance carrier. If you require this service, please let us know at the time your order is placed. Vital Signs will ship your sign(s) worldwide.

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What is a sign survey and do I need one?

A sign survey is completed to determine information for existing signage; measurements; colors; photo documentation; adjacent buildings for signs in the area; determining landlord contact information; determining the municipality of the building; permitting requirements/fees; sizing/mounting formula. Sign surveys are typically requested by an out-of-state customer such as a national retail chain who wishes to add a new store and requires local sign information. Vital Signs provides sign surveys and a summary report for the customer.

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Do you repair or re-face signs?

Yes. Vital Signs will assess your sign(s) to determine if a repair, re-face or replacement is required.

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Is Vital Signs a franchise?

No. Vital Signs is an independent sign company. We are, however, affiliated with approximately 250 other sign companies across the United States. This affiliation allows us to draw upon technical and logistical support as well as significant supplier discounts.

Is Vital Signs affiliated with any sign trade organizations?

Yes. The Vital Signs Team is proud to produce signs of the highest quality with quality materials. Part of our commitment to you is to educate ourselves about cutting edge technology and materials so that we provide the best options for your sign application. We are proud to be members of the International Sign Association and the United States Sign Council.

Can I provide feedback regarding my experience with Vital Signs?

Yes, please. We love your testimonials because they let us and others know that we did a quality job for you. We are anxious to know that our products are working for you and helping to build your business. If you have a great story about how your “vital signs are maximizing the return on your sign investment, we want to hear from you! We welcome your feedback before, during and after your signs are completed.

Was there something we could have done differently? Let us know. If you have pictures of your sign(s) you wish to share, please feel free. Testimonials can be sent directly to Vital Signs or given via Sign Search. We are satisfied when you are satisfied!

 
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