How to Vet a Signage Company in Seattle Before You Commit
Seattle storefronts have a lot working against them. Dense streets. Tough visibility. Strict permitting. Constant rain. And customers who decide where to shop in a matter of seconds.
So before you hire a signage company, there is one big question you need to ask:
Can they handle the full scope of your signage project, or are they just selling you a sign?
Because those two things are not the same.
Why “Full Scope” Matters More Than You Think
A sign is not just a sign (especially in Seattle).
A real signage project includes:
Design that works for real world visibility
Materials that hold up to wet weather and wind
Knowledge of local codes and permitting
Fabrication done correctly the first time
Professional installation that does not cut corners
Long term maintenance and repairs if needed
If a company only handles part of that process, you could end up juggling vendors, paying more than expected, or dealing with delays when something goes sideways.
And something always goes sideways.
Question 1: Do They Design With Visibility in Mind?
A good looking sign is great. A readable sign is better.
Ask your signage company:
Can my sign be read in three seconds?
Will it be visible from thirty to fifty feet away?
Does it still stand out on a gray, rainy Seattle afternoon?
Does it work during darker winter evenings?
Designing for signage is different than designing for screens. If your signage partner does not talk about distance, lighting, and contrast, that is a red flag.
Question 2: Do They Handle Permits and Local Codes?
Seattle has specific signage regulations, and they vary by location, building type, and zoning.
Before committing, ask:
Do you handle Seattle signage permits?
Have you worked with the city before?
Will you flag issues before fabrication starts?
If the answer is vague or feels like “we will figure it out later,” you may end up figuring it out yourself. That usually means delays and extra costs.
Question 3: Are They Fabricating or Outsourcing?
Some signage companies design signs and then send everything out to a third party. That is not always a deal breaker, but it can complicate timelines and quality control.
A full scope signage partner should be able to:
Explain where and how your sign is made
Recommend materials suited for Pacific Northwest weather
Adjust plans quickly if conditions change
When fabrication is tightly managed, your project stays on track and your sign lasts longer.
Question 4: Can They Install the Sign Properly?
Installation is where good signage projects become great ones, or disasters.
Seattle installations often involve:
Tight urban spaces
Multi tenant buildings
Height restrictions
Weather delays
Tricky electrical work for illuminated signs
Ask your signage company if installation is handled by their own experienced team and if they plan for weather, access, and safety ahead of time.
Question 5: What Happens After the Sign Is Up?
This is the part many people forget to ask about.
Signs need maintenance. Lighting goes out. Weather happens. Businesses evolve.
A solid signage partner will offer:
Sign maintenance and repairs
Updates or refreshes down the line
Honest advice on when to fix versus replace
If a company disappears once the sign is installed, that is not a long term partner.
Why Seattle Businesses Trust D10 Signs + Graphics
At D10 Signs + Graphics, we handle signage projects from concept to installation and beyond. That includes design, permitting, fabrication, installation, and maintenance.
We are used to tricky projects, challenging locations, and signage that needs to work hard in real Seattle conditions. If there is a curveball, we plan for it. If there is a problem, we fix it.
Whether you need a new storefront sign, illuminated signage, window graphics, or a full rebrand, our team is equipped to handle the full scope without handing you a list of things to manage yourself.
Ready to Vet Your Signage Project?
If you are planning signage in Seattle and want a second opinion before committing, we are happy to help.
Contact D10 Signs + Graphics for a free quote or a signage audit at your retail space. We will walk you through what your project actually needs and make sure your sign works as hard as your business does.