10 Important Questions to Ask Before Purchasing an ...

Purchasing an exterior sign can be a new experience for many business owners.  It's not something that you do every day so it's a good idea to have some guidance to help you through the ins and outs of exterior sign purchasing.

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Here are 10 Questions to Help You Get Started

1) Is the exterior sign style you are interested in buying allowed in the city or town where your business is moving to or located at?

Most towns and cities have Bylaws and Sign Permitting requirements. You can find these usually by doing a web search for Town of 'Sign Permitting or Bylaws.

There are usually restrictions on the types of signs allowed, what size sign you can have, what types of lighting if any are allowed, and so on. For example in many towns, you are only allowed reverse or halo illuminated Channel Letters as an effort to reduce the amount of light overflowing the sign.

Obtain a copy of your town's bylaws, specifically the sign section. Read and understand what the allowed types and sizes of signs you can have. Inquire with the Building Department or Inspectional Services on what the permitting process is and how long it takes to get a permit. It varies greatly from town to town and can be anywhere from days to months. Need permitting help? Express Sign & Graphics has lots of experience with Sign Permitting.

Understand that if you want a sign that is outside of the parameters allowed in the Bylaws, you may need to go through a process of applying for a variance. This can be costly and time-consuming so be sure it is a worthwhile endeavor and that your sign will have a great ROI by understanding how well your sign type choice will work for your business.

2) What types of Exterior Signs are in my price range?

There are many types of signs for outdoor use. Many lighted options such as channel letters, light box signs and pylon signs have costs in the thousands. Be sure that the ROI for the extra cost is worthwhile. In general, internally lighted signs offer a much better visibility and ROI than externally or non-illuminated signs.

Other signs such as carved signs with gold leaf can be expensive depending on the thickness of the material, the number of processes involved in making the sign (i.e. shape routing, v-groove and raised dimensions, multiple paint colors, etc.). Work with your sign provider to minimize costs. Also keep in mind that when we say Gold Leaf, we do really mean 23K Gold, and therefore the cost of gold leaf reflects the cost of gold leaf signs.

Try using a full-color digital print or direct to substrate print in place of multiple vinyl or paint colors to contain costs. The newer printers and inks provide long-lasting outdoor full-color prints when done properly.

Remember that you get what you pay for. When comparing pricing or vendors, be sure you are comparing apples to apples. Some sign companies might quote a lower cost by cutting back and using less expensive materials or materials with a shorter life span. At Express Sign, we strive to make the highest quality sign our customer can afford. The quality of your sign reflects the quality of your business!

Don't be afraid to ask for a ballpark price from your sign vendor for different types of signs. Often pricing is as simple as a per square foot price so it's easy to compare.

3) How long does it take to make the Exterior Sign you are interested in buying?

Many sign types can be done in a matter of days or a week. Others take several weeks to fabricate as there are several processes involved in fabrication.

Ask your vendor what their turnaround time is for the sign type(s) you are interested in. Be sure that they are capable of installing your sign or have a qualified sub-contractor who can do the installation. Also be sure they have sufficient insurance coverage to protect you from any issues arriving from the installation.

Ask your sign fabricator what situations might change that schedule (i.e. weather issues, product availability) and allow for some extra time in your schedule for installation.

Work with your sign company to coordinate permits, electrical work, construction completion, etc. to keep your sign project on schedule. Keep the weather in mind, specifically in the winter.

4) How long will the Exterior Sign Type you've selected last?

Different sign substrates have different lifespans. Remember, nothing lasts forever, specifically in advertising. Most companies don't need a sign for more than 8-10 years. Name changes, logo changes, moves, mergers and other factors often create the need for a new sign anyway. More important to ask would be, can the sign be modified if needed, moved to a new location, or refurbished in time.

Remember you will have to do your part to maintain your signs lifespan. Cleaning your sign or awning, keeping electrical components in working order, repairing vinyl over time helps to make your sign last longer and work harder for you.

5) Can the Exterior Sign Type I've selected be updated if I change my name, etc.?

Consider whether or not you want to include your website, number, tenant names directly on a sign. If you do decide to have it, consider having that part done as an overlay, insert panel, or in vinyl to allow for changes when needed. This can save you money in the future particularly on dimensional letters signs or carved signs.

If you have a multi-tenant sign or directory sign, be sure that it can easily be updated. Again in winter it can be difficult to re-letter signs outdoors. In areas where winter weather is a consideration, removable panels that can be brought indoors work best.

6) What other potential costs involved in completing your outdoor sign project?

Many times your sign project requires additional work at your site. Be sure to have your sign vendor come on site to survey and be sure that you don't need extra blocking or structure to attach your sign, that your electrical wiring is available, or accessible, that there is access for attaching your sign.

Ask what other vendors may be needed such as an Electrician, contractor, Attorney for special permitting.

Plan ahead so that your premises are ready to accept the sign.

7) What is the most visible location for my sign?

Location and visibility are critical to the success of your exterior sign project. Make sure your sign location is visible from as many traffic viewpoints as possible. Plan your lettering and graphic sizes to accommodate the length of view and speed of drivers if you are along a road. Plan for ease of view for foot traffic if you have it in your area.

Your sign should fit with your environment. A neon flashing sign in a historical area would look out of place and most likely would not be allowed. Plan accordingly.

At Express Sign & Graphics, we provide our customers with imposed scaled photos of how their signs will actually look in place. This is an important step to be sure your sign is the appropriate size, has good visibility and looks great before making a commitment.

8) What is my sign company's experience fabricating this type of Exterior Sign?

Don't be afraid to ask for references or referrals. Your neighbors and business partners may know the sign company you are dealing with and their capabilities.

You should feel comfortable with your sign vendor and their ability to explain different sign types, understand your requirements and work with you to get your sign project done on time and on budget.

At Express Sign & Graphics, we have a great showroom where you can visit and see photos of our work, view real samples and meet with our designers, fabricators, and installers to ask questions.

9) What can I expect for a Return on Investment on a large Exterior Sign?

There is no doubt that signs offer a great ROI on your advertising budget. No other type of advertising works in your neighborhood 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

ROI will be determined by the signs visibility, appropriateness for your type of business and overall design. Consulting with a sign professional and allowing them to offer you suggestions based on their experience is the best way to get the best value for your money.

10) Is this the most-effect type of Exterior Sign for my business and my customer type?

Keep in mind what your business is and how you want to be perceived by the public. Are you an accounting firm or attorney looking to attract quality clients? A boutique looking for hipsters? A grocery store looking to attract customers away from the competition? Your signs should reflect your business and provide an avenue for your business success.

Again, keep in mind the surrounding area where your business is located. Are there competing signs with similar colors/style? Is there a lot in the viewer's eye to weed through for signs and other distractions. How fast are drivers driving? This again is where a sign professional can be a great asset in planning. They are experienced at what works and what doesn't.

You may have many other questions for your sign provider. At Express Sign & Graphics, Inc., we have the experience to help answer all of your questions and get you on the right track. Our staff is available at our store Monday ' Friday 8:30 am ' 5:00 pm to help you.

If you want to purchase a laser machine to start a laser engraving business (laser etching business), you most likely have a list of questions needing answers. In this post, we've answered some common questions about buying a laser engraver machine.

1. Understanding Laser Engraving

What is Laser Engraving?

Laser engraving is a precise and efficient method of marking or engraving various materials using a high-powered laser beam. This process involves the removal of material from the surface of the workpiece, resulting in a permanent and high-quality engraving. Laser engraving is widely used in various industries, including manufacturing, awards, trophies, signage, and customized gifts. The versatility and precision of laser engraving make it an ideal choice for creating detailed and intricate designs on a wide range of materials.

How Laser Engraving Works

Laser engraving works by focusing a concentrated laser beam onto the surface of the material, causing the material to vaporize or change color. The laser beam is controlled by computer-aided design (CAD) software, which allows for precise control over the engraving process. The laser engraving machine uses a laser head to move the laser beam back and forth, tracing the design or text onto the material. The laser power, speed, and resolution can be adjusted to achieve the desired engraving effect. This flexibility ensures that the laser engraving machine can produce high-quality results on various materials, from metals to plastics and wood.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of traffic sign cutting machine. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

1. The capacity of laser engraving machines:

The capacity of your laser machine plays a pivotal role in defining the scope and competitiveness of your business in the targeted market. A high-capacity, versatile laser engraver and precision part cutter allows you to adapt and tap into new markets, especially when facing saturation in your current niche. Laser engraving is a precise and efficient method of marking or engraving various materials using a high-powered laser beam. The importance of laser technology lies in its ability to achieve seamless results by vaporizing specific areas of materials, showcasing its advantages over traditional methods and alternative engraving technologies.

Before you purchase a laser machine, matching its capabilities with your business growth is crucial. Here are vital aspects to consider:

Laser Power & Bed Size:

The power of your laser impacts the engraving speed and depth. Higher power will allow you to cut thicker materials in one path. Opt for a higher-power laser engraver-cutter if your business demands swift, deep engraving, especially for more rigid materials, or if you plan to have laser cutters for wood or acrylic into signages. This is vital for maintaining efficiency and expanding material versatility. Please study the following chart for laser power and the material thickness it can cut.

CO2 laser power vs. Thickness of materials

The bed size of your CO2 laser etching machine determines the maximum area available for engraving. It is the machine's x-y motion range, and it is the ultimate cutting size as well. A larger bed size means the ability to handle more significant items and the convenience of engraving multiple smaller items simultaneously, thus boosting productivity. However, note that the bed size, often indicated in dimensions like 48 'x36', differs from the maximum size of engravable objects.

• AP Lazer Can Lead You to a Wider Range Of Markets For Your Laser Engraving Business (Laser Etching Business).

Engravable Object Size and Height:

The capacity of a laser engraving machine to accommodate various sizes and heights of objects is crucial. Your ability to engrave from small keychains to bulky or irregularly shaped items can significantly broaden your market reach. Ensuring your laser machine can handle diverse object dimensions is critical to expanding your marketing and sales potential. Modern laser engraving machines offer advanced features such as intelligence, speed, accuracy, and ease of use.

2. What size and space of a laser engraver cutter do I need for my laser etching business?

What Size Of machine do I need?

That question is difficult for us to answer, as it depends on your plans for the laser machine and the most oversized size material for engraving or laser cutting machines. AP Lazer's patented open architecture provides you with limitless opportunities, but the size of the machine will ultimately determine the size of the material and ease of engraving ability. Generally, bigger is better simply because if you have a giant machine, you have more options and opportunities to engrave larger objects than if you purchase a smaller machine. It's entirely up to you and which revenue streams you'd like to tap into.

Different machine specifications and settings can perform laser engraving on various materials, including metals and nonmetals.

How much space will I need for the laser engraving business?

SNLR The Best CO2 Laser Machine For Small Business Startup ' The most versatile, lightweight, and movable, with no size or weight limitations.

Laser machines range drastically in size, from small desktop engraving machines to large gantry-style laser engraving machines. For your laser engraving business, you also need to know the space requirements of AP Lazer machines. The largest of our machines require at least an 11' by 8' space. If less space is available, our smaller line of machines can fit in an area as little as 8' by 5'. It is best if your laser engraving machine is in a space that shares a wall with the outdoors for convenient ventilation. Installing a 6' fan will push any fumes or smells from the top of the machine to the outdoors. The AP Lazer should also be near a standard 110v power outlet, so extension cords aren't unnecessary. One less tripping hazard is always better. Read more about safety tips.

Besides the space for your laser machine, You also need to consider your workspace, what products you plan to inventory, and if you need to meet customers in your space.

4. Types of Laser Engravers

Different Types of Machines and Their Uses

There are several types of laser engravers available, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. The most common types of laser engravers include:

• CO2 Laser Engravers: These machines use a CO2 laser to engrave non-metallic materials such as wood, plastic, and fabric. They are commonly used for engraving signs, awards, and personalized gifts. CO2 laser engravers are known for their versatility and ability to handle a wide range of materials.

• Fiber Laser Engravers: These machines use a fiber laser to engrave metallic materials such as steel, aluminum, and copper. They are commonly used for engraving industrial parts, tools, and equipment. Fiber laser engravers are highly efficient and provide excellent precision for detailed metal engravings.

• Diode Laser Engravers: These machines use a diode laser to engrave a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, and woods. They are commonly used for engraving small parts, jewelry, and other precision items. Diode laser engravers are compact and suitable for intricate and delicate work.

• Hybrid Laser Engravers: These machines combine the capabilities of CO2 and fiber lasers, allowing for engraving of both metallic and non-metallic materials. Hybrid laser engravers offer the best of both worlds, providing flexibility and versatility for various engraving projects.

When choosing a laser engraver, it's essential to consider the type of material you will be engraving, the size and complexity of the design, and the level of precision required. By selecting the suitable laser engraving machine for your needs, you can achieve high-quality engravings and maximize your productivity.

3. Before you purchase a laser machine, determine the learning curve, and training.

AP Lazer's comprehensive one-on-one virtual or onsite hands-on training at our Las Vegas branch and 24/7/365 tech support can dramatically reduce your learning curve.

When selecting a laser engraving machine to start or diversify your business, it's essential to consider the learning curve involved with its operation. Assessing how user-friendly the hardware and software are is crucial, as is the availability of training resources such as online videos and comprehensive knowledge bases. Understanding the level of ongoing support, including one-on-one training and technical assistance, is vital for smooth operation.

Another critical factor is the software compatibility of the laser engraver or etching machine. Compatibility with popular industry software like Lightburn can simplify learning, which often means more accessible online resources and community support.

It's essential to recognize that the learning curve can be a hidden cost, especially for entrepreneurs focused on business growth rather than intricate machine operations. Choosing a laser engraving or etching machine that balances technical capabilities and ease of use is crucial for effective business integration.

5. What kind of training is available for starting an engraving business?

Highly skilled technicians will spend one day assisting you in getting your machine up and running and helping you get familiar with the machine. Following the step-by-step instructions and assembling your machine before the one-on-one virtual training will leave more time for a technician to answer more detailed questions. Additionally, we offer 24/7 technical support, and Advanced Training is available should you require it.

Ready to grow your business? Download our free guide: The Ultimate Guide to Business Growth With a Laser. 

6. Ensuring Comprehensive LIFE TIME Support with Your Laser Engraving Machines.

When investing in laser engravers or laser etching machines, understanding the scope of included technical support is crucial. The value of tech support cannot be overstated, as business downtime due to machine issues can lead to significant financial losses, ranging from hundreds to hundreds of thousands of dollars per hour.

Often, machines become unusable due to lack of support, running in a faulty mode until they become unfixable, or replacement parts are unavailable. LIFETIME support is crucial for your machine's life span and resell value.

Consider the support format provided: Via , , or chat? Also, it's essential to have customers know the availability of this support ' is it only during working hours, or is it more extensive?

AP Lazer stands out by offering 24/7/365 North America-based support for the lifetime of your machine. This support, including Facetime for on-the-spot troubleshooting and remote login capabilities for adjusting settings, can swiftly resolve issues, correct user errors, and answer your queries.

Such robust support ensures that even a machine that has been in use for ten years receives the same level of care as a new one, significantly extending the machine's lifespan and ensuring continuous operation for your business. The best CO2 laser for small businesses has the most versatile capability and, most importantly, the best support.

7. What kind of warranty is offered?

Ask about the warranty duration. AP Lazer machines carry a three-year parts warranty, a two-year tube and mirror warranty, and the lens is warranty for one year. When researching machine warranties, the tube, mirror, and lens are essential to pay attention to, as most other laser cutter and engraver warranties count these parts as 'consumable items' and cover them from 90 days to not at all. On top of everything, we also include a year of technical support and 24/7/365 lifetime technical support.

Laser machines can be paid for in various ways, but most commonly are purchased with cash (capital purchase) or by financing the laser equipment.

8. How will I pay for my laser machine?

Laser machines can be paid for in various ways, but most commonly are purchased with cash (capital purchase) or by financing the laser equipment.

' Cash. It is an excellent option for existing businesses, as any profit you make with the machine is 100% yours from the beginning.

' Finance-to-own. Financing a laser engraving machine provides many convenient options to suit your financial needs best. Most financing companies offer some deferment option, giving you time to get the machine in your possession, receive training, pass the learning curve, and generate profits before you write the first check. Financing allows you to deduct the full amount of the purchase price of your laser in the first year when you utilize Section 179.

' Credit Card. You may pay for your complete diode laser engravers machine with a credit card. (3% fee applies).

' Utilize a bank of your choice for the option of a standard equipment or business loan, home equity loan, or line of credit. Federal grants are readily available if you are a non-profit or for-profit organization such as a school or university.

9. How am I going to operate a profitable laser engraving business?

Making money with a laser machine is essentially up to the owner/operator. AP Lazer machines boast unique features that will set you apart from other laser machines and allow you to make money quickly.

Realizing the potential and taking advantage of our patented open architecture is extremely valuable and will provide you with many opportunities. With AP Lazer, you have no boundaries and never have to say 'no' to anyone capable of completing their job. Your only limitation is your creativity and desire to laser-cut metal, but you can engrave metal with coating or bare metal with Cermark spray.

When entering the Emotional Marketplace with no size or weight limitations, you can diversify your business into unlimited low-competition and high-profit markets.

Diversify Your Laser Engraving Business Or Start Your laser engraving business In Emotional Marketplace.

Please download the FREE eBook: The Ultimate Guide For Business Growth With AP Lazer

We hope to have answered some of your common questions about purchasing a laser machine and inspired you along the way. If you have additional questions we didn't cover, feel free to contact us or give us a call at 800-585-

By Tong Li

January 9,

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