Store Signs Key Terms

Light up the right vocabulary to understand store signs

Who knew store signs were so complicated? While a basic "Open" or "Closed" sign is both essential and universal to businesses of all sizes, other store signage may be required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Accessibility Guidelines. Signs, indoor and out, come in a variety of materials, from acrylic to magnetic to coroplast. Better understand store signs by studying these basic key terms.

Neon

Neon store signs, particularly "Open" and "Closed" signs, are very common. Neon is a rare gas that is stored in a glass tube. When an electrical current passes through the tube, it lights up, producing the glowing signs we're so used to seeing.

LED

LED or Light Emitting Diode signs are becoming more common on storefronts throughout the United States. LEDs conserve energy and don't burn out as light bulbs do, making them an economical, earth-friendly choice.

Pylon signs

Pylon signs are free-standing signs that may be located at street level or above. These signs may represent a single business, such as McDonald's, or list a number of businesses, such as in a shopping center.

Foam Core

Foam core is simply a sheet of paper laminated to either side of a foam core, and is sometimes clay coated to form an extra-smooth surface. Foam core is the ideal material for indoor signage.

Coroplast

Coroplast or corrugated plastic is a fluted polypropylene material that is commonly used for both indoor and outdoor signs.

Americans with Disabilities Act

Signage that designates permanent rooms or areas of a building, such as the restrooms, and signs that indicate the function of a building are required to comply with the terms of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility Guidelines.
ADA Accessibility Guidelines detail what size and type store signage must be, and which signs are required to comply with the guidelines.

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