Five Uncommon and Unusual Sign Types You Might Not Know
When it comes to business signage, most people can easily identify a few familiar types. Below are some of the most common signs you see on storefronts, gas stations, and retail locations every day.
Common Sign Types
Channel Letter Signs
Three-dimensional letters mounted on the front of a building, often illuminated, spelling out a business name or logo. These are one of the most popular exterior sign types for branding visibility.
Pylon Signs
Tall freestanding signs, typically on a single or double pole, designed to be visible from a distance. Commonly used by gas stations, shopping centers, and hotels to attract drivers on highways and busy roads.
Neon Signs
Classic illuminated signs made of glass tubing filled with gas, glowing brightly when electrically charged. Known for their vibrant colors and vintage appeal.
Pan-Face Signs
Box-style signs made from a single piece of vacuum-formed or embossed plastic, commonly used by retail chains like Dollar General for cost-effective visibility.
While these are among the most recognized signage options, there are several lesser-known sign types that you may not encounter as frequently. At Ortwein Sign, we work with all types of signage, including some rare and unique options.
Uncommon and Unusual Sign Types
Balloon Signs
Air-inflated signage displays made of durable fabric and powered by a blower motor to maintain shape. Balloon signs are typically tethered to the ground or a structure with ropes or cables and are popular for grand openings, sales, and special events.
Mobile Signs
Portable signs mounted on trailers, allowing businesses to move signage between locations. Ideal for temporary promotions or roadside advertising campaigns.
Sandblasted Signs
These signs are made by placing a rubber stencil over a panel (wood or high-density urethane) and carving away the background with a high-pressure sand-and-air mix. The raised design is then smoothed and painted, giving the sign a handcrafted, high-end look.
Fireoptic Displays
Specialty signs that use fiber optic technology to transmit light through glass or plastic fibers, creating unique glowing or twinkling effects. These are less common but visually striking for certain applications.
Spinner Signs
Freestanding or wall-mounted signs that rotate with the wind, adding movement that draws attention to your business or promotional messages.
Electromagnetic Display (EMD) Signs
Signs that use magnetically controlled disks to flip on and off, creating changeable messages controlled digitally. These mechanical-style displays are rare but offer a distinctive retro look combined with modern technology.