Fonts For Business Signs
The first thing to keep in mind about fonts is that there are two basic types: serif and sans serif. This seems means characters of type either have detail added or they are devoid of detail. Font point size (height of letters) is also important. Fonts for business signs are can be either serif or sans serif fonts. The choice depends on distance from which signs are viewed, the depth of resolution and color of fonts. One mistake many businesses make is choosing a font that’s difficult to read, such as italics and ornate. Be aware certain colors and fonts are not always compatible and the message the sign projects may be obstructed.
Most Popular Fonts For Business Signs
For signs that need to be seen at a distance, choose a sans serif font with depth of resolution. The three most popular of these are: Helvetica, Garamond and Futura. Garamond is a serif font, while Helvetica and Futura are sans serif fonts. All three are used for signs viewed from a distance and adapt well to the range of colors typically selected by businesses. Another issue to consider regarding fonts is the actual materials from which signs are constructed. Neon signs and those with a metal base are best designed with serif or sans serif fonts.
Check Font Impact For Visibility
The impact of Garamond, Helvetica and Futura on business signs is related to the size of the letters. For example, choosing a letter size of 18 inches would allow for readability at a distance of 750 feet with visibility impact at 180 feet. A smaller letter size of only three inches can be read at a distance of 100 feet with visibility impact at 30 feet. Spacing between the letters needs to be adjusted to aid in readability. This is also affected by the type of font chosen.
Color Compatibility And Font Type
Most font type can be printed in a wide range of colors. For business signs, background colors and font type colors are also affected by visibility factors. Black font types are clearly the most highly visible when combined with a white background. Second in terms of visibility is black on a yellow background as seen in many traffic signs. Red, blue, brown and green fonts on a white background also are highly visible. Also having backlit letters on a bright sign can help to attract a lot of attention.
Key Issues For Selecting Fonts
Issues to keep in mind for business signs are:
. Font type – Garamond, Helvetica or Futura
. Font size – three inches to 42″ are standards
. Range of visibility – 100 feet to 1750 feet
. Visibility impact – 30 feet to 420 feet
. Sign materials of construction such as neon, fabric or metal
. Color compatibility of font and background
Resources For Standards For Business Signs
Resources to check for business sign standards are the United States Sign Council (USSC) to determine font lettering sizes or Outdoor Advertising Assoc. of America (OAAA)for most advantageous font colors and complimentary background colors.
