A great sign can be the difference between a customer walking past or walking in. It’s a silent salesperson working for you 24/7. In fact, studies show that nearly 76% of consumers have entered a store for the first time simply because its signs caught their eye. On the other hand, about 60% of people are deterred from entering a business that has no sign at all.
This is where a classic tool comes in: the A frame sign. Also known as a sandwich board, an a frame sign is a self standing, portable sign that folds into a triangular “A” shape. With two faces for displaying messages, it’s designed to be placed on the sidewalk to capture the attention of people passing by before being folded flat for easy storage at the end of the day. This simple yet effective tool can be one of the most versatile assets for any café, boutique, or studio. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this powerful marketing tool.
Why Your Business Needs a Quality A Frame Sign
The power of a good first impression cannot be overstated. With 68% of consumers admitting they’ve bought a product after a sign drew their attention, your storefront’s appearance directly impacts sales. An A frame sign is your opportunity to speak directly to potential customers before they even reach your door.
Boosts Foot Traffic: It grabs the attention of pedestrians who might otherwise miss your storefront.
Communicates Timely Information: Perfect for advertising a daily lunch special, a happy hour, a sale, or a simple “Welcome, We’re Open” message. For a permanent storefront indicator, pair your A‑frame with an Open Sign by the door.
Signals Professionalism: A clean, well designed sign suggests quality and attention to detail. Conversely, more than half of consumers will avoid a shop with poorly made signage.
Choosing the Right A Frame Sign
When selecting an A frame sign, considering its size, material, and build quality is crucial for making a good investment, especially for outdoor use.
Key Dimensions and Placement
The ideal A frame sign dimension balances visibility with portability and compliance with local regulations. A common size features a sign face around 18 to 24 inches wide, which is large enough to be legible from a distance without obstructing the sidewalk. Before purchasing, always check with your local municipality about rules regarding sidewalk sign placement, size, and usage hours. The best place for your sign is in the direct flow of foot traffic, positioned so people from either direction see it before they reach your entrance. For wider frontages or events, a Large Sidewalk Sign can increase readability from further away.
Material Matters: Wood vs. Metal
While a classic wood frame construction has a certain rustic appeal, it requires significant maintenance to withstand the elements. For a business, professionally crafted metal signs offer superior durability. Look for signs made from powder coated aluminum. This process involves baking a dry powder onto the metal, creating a finish that is incredibly resistant to rust, chipping, and fading. For example, the George & Willy A‑Frame Sign is crafted from rust resistant aluminum to endure the weather while remaining lightweight at about 8.8 pounds (4 kg) for easy transport.
Understanding A Frame Sign Construction
Whether you’re evaluating a pre made sign or considering a custom build, understanding its components helps you recognize quality craftsmanship.
The Frame and Its Stability
A sturdy and professional looking frame relies on precision. The corners should be joined with a perfect miter cut angle, typically 45 degrees, to ensure a seamless look. Proper frame leg alignment is also critical; the legs should stand evenly to prevent wobbling. The quality of the hinge installation directly impacts how smoothly the sign opens and closes and how well it holds its shape. Finally, look for reliable open angle securing hardware, like leather straps or metal chains, which prevent the legs from splaying too far apart and keep the sign stable.
Sign Faces and Inserts
The face of the sign is your canvas. Many high quality signs have fixed panels designed for custom graphics. However, other systems are built for interchangeable messages.
Slide In Sign Inserts: These models use an insert track installation, creating channels along the frame where a panel can slide in and out. This is useful for businesses that change promotions frequently.
Panel Materials: A common choice for a slide in panel is a PVC board insert, a lightweight and durable plastic. For a more dynamic approach, you could explore a whiteboard panel creation, allowing for handwritten daily specials.
Attachment Methods: Some signs secure panels using VHB tape usage (Very High Bond tape), an industrial strength double sided tape that creates a clean, hardware free appearance.
Painting and Finishing
For a wooden sign, proper painting and finishing with multiple coats of exterior grade sealant is essential to protect it from moisture and sun damage. This is a primary reason why powder coated aluminum is often preferred for commercial use, as the finish is baked on for maximum durability and a consistently flawless look from day one.
How to Customize Your Sidewalk Sign for Maximum Impact
Most premium signs, including a good a frame sign, are sold as blank canvases. This is intentional, giving you the freedom to brand it perfectly for your business. You don’t need to be an artist to get a professional look.
Vinyl Decals
The most popular method for customizing a blank sign is using vinyl decals. These are essentially durable, custom cut stickers of your logo or lettering that adhere smoothly to the sign’s surface. They are weatherproof and provide a crisp, clean look that mimics a painted finish. Quality vinyl can last for over five years outdoors. If you want to refresh the surface later, you can swap in a replacement A‑Frame Sign Face Plate.
Working With a Signwriter
A signwriter is a professional who designs and applies graphics to signs. You can take your blank a frame sign to a local signwriter, who will work with you to create and apply vinyl decals perfectly. They have the expertise in typography and materials to ensure your sign is legible, attractive, and durable. This simple step transforms a beautiful object into a bespoke marketing tool for your brand.
An A Frame Sign Compared to Other Signage
While an a frame sign is a champion at street level engagement, it’s often part of a larger signage strategy. Inside, a Magnetic Letter Menu Board makes price and menu updates quick without reprinting.
Blade Signs: These signs mount perpendicular to a building, jutting out to catch the eye of pedestrians and drivers from a distance. They are great for visibility along a busy street.
Light Box Signs: For businesses open after dark, an illuminated sign is crucial. Light boxes ensure your business stays visible and inviting at night, something an unlit a frame sign cannot do.
On average, consumers feel that two or three signs around a storefront is an appropriate amount. Combining an a frame sign for immediate, eye level messaging with a blade sign for distance visibility creates a comprehensive and effective system. If you prefer a softer silhouette, the Rounded Sidewalk Sign offers curved corners suited to tighter sidewalks.
Investing in Quality for Long Term Value
When you invest in a quality piece of equipment like an a frame sign, you should expect it to last. Look for brands that stand behind their products with strong policies. For example, a two year warranty covering faulty workmanship is a great indicator of a well made product. Additionally, a generous change of mind return policy, like a 100 day window for full priced items, shows a company’s confidence in its offerings and commitment to customer satisfaction.
These policies provide peace of mind that you’re purchasing a durable sign designed to represent your business beautifully for years to come. If you’re ready to elevate your storefront, you can explore a curated collection of signs designed with timeless simplicity.
Frequently Asked Questions About A Frame Signs
What is another name for an A frame sign?
It is most commonly called a sandwich board or a sidewalk sign. You might also hear it referred to as a pavement sign.
Can I use an a frame sign in the rain and wind?
Yes, if it’s made from the right materials. An a frame sign built with powder coated aluminum is designed to be rust resistant and withstand outdoor weather. For windy conditions, a sign with a sturdy base and a reasonable weight (around 8 to 10 pounds) is generally stable (add a sandbag for A‑frame signs for extra stability), though it’s always wise to bring it inside during extreme weather.
How do I put my logo on a blank a frame sign?
The best method is to have a local signwriter or print shop create a vinyl decal of your logo and lettering. They can then apply it to the sign for a professional, durable finish. This is a common and cost effective practice.
How heavy is a typical portable a frame sign?
A well designed portable a frame sign balances stability and portability. A weight of around 8.8 pounds (or 4 kilograms) is ideal, making it sturdy enough to resist gentle winds but light enough for staff to easily carry.
Do I need a permit for a sidewalk sign?
This depends entirely on your local city or town regulations. Many areas have rules regarding the size, placement, and timing for sidewalk signs to ensure pedestrian pathways remain clear. It’s always best to check with your local business authority or municipality to understand the specific requirements.
