When selecting signage, pylon, totem, and monument signs each serve specific purposes, from grabbing attention along a highway to creating a welcoming entrance. Here’s a quick breakdown of each type and when to use them.
Pylon Signs
- Purpose: Designed for maximum visibility from a distance.
- Look: Tall, wide, often mounted on poles.
- Best Use: Highways, shopping centers, or large properties needing to attract passing traffic.
- Lighting: Typically uses LED panels or internal lights for visibility at night.
Totem Signs
- Purpose: Close-up visibility with a modern, sleek design.
- Look: Tall and narrow, perfect for small spaces.
- Best Use: Entrances, business parks, or pedestrian areas.
- Lighting: Often features edge or internal lighting for a polished look.
Monument Signs
- Purpose: Low-profile, welcoming, and blends with the landscape.
- Look: Short, wide, with a solid base.
- Best Use: Neighborhoods, campuses, corporate entrances.
- Lighting: Often unlit but can have uplighting.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Pylon Sign | Totem Sign | Monument Sign |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | Tall, elevated on poles | Tall, narrow | Low to the ground |
| Visibility Range | Long-distance | Close to medium | Close-up |
| Ideal Placement | Highways, large commercial areas | Entrances, office complexes | Neighborhoods, campuses |
| Materials | Steel, reinforced plastic | Aluminum, glass | Brick, stone, concrete |
| Lighting | LED or internal | Edge-lit or internal | Often unlit, possible uplighting |
Final Tip
Choose a pylon for visibility from afar, a totem for a modern look in smaller spaces, or a monument for a welcoming, grounded presence at close range. Each brings unique strengths to help make your signage effective and inviting.
