material for storefront signage

**smtitmas** · 01-02-2008, 08:48 PM

I've got 3 storefront signs to make, each with individually cut out letters to be applied over a backer board(in one case its a 10' surfboard). i plan on using MDO for the backer but I'm not sure if the resin coating on the MDO will protect the edges of the letters from the elements. any thoughts about material choices? i was also thinking of dipping the letters in lacquer for a weather resistant finish.

**dave_k** · 01-02-2008, 09:22 PM

The finished look you are after will partly drive the materials you use. I don't know what brand MDO you use but Crezon is the MDO plywood of choice for signmaking around here. MDO will last if it's properly finished. I wouldn't use lacquer. I would use an exterior grade finish like spar varnish http://www.targetcoatings.com/emtech-9300.html I have used this on a couple of jobs. It's an excellent finish, it builds like lacquer. You can tint the primer and orde the top coat clear or with an amber tint. I would spray the letters, dipping would leave too thick and uneven a coat for my liking. It would likely hold drips and runs.

**atogrf1** · 01-03-2008, 06:50 AM

Your idea for dipping the letters is a good one. It sure won't hurt. If you don't dip them, just make sure that you seal the backside of them before you put them up to ensure proper sealing.
And yes, you are correct, MDO is the way to go.

**SteveC** · 01-03-2008, 12:51 PM

How about PVC (Azek or what ever). You can get 4 x 8 sheet or joint some 1x's together depending on lettering size and font. 4x8 is about $150 and 1" x 12" x 18' is $90 at my local yard, divided by 3 it's not much. No finish required ! Could even route the edges for a really "expensive looking" sign.

**fwunder** · 01-03-2008, 02:59 PM

If you want to consider a totally different material for the lettering, you may wish to consider outsourcing to Gemini Letters - http://www.signletters.com

-fred

**derekg01** · 01-05-2008, 03:10 PM

Consider using a material called Sintra. It's expanded PVC material (similar to Azek) comes in various thicknesses and colors. The entire thickness of the material is colored so no edges to paint. It can be had cut with standard woodworking tools or even CNC cut to whatever shape, font, logo you want.

Gemini letters, mentioned in an earlier post can custom do almost anything you want, or check for local sign shops, display and exhibit houses and graphic studios.

Derek G

**smtitmas** · 01-05-2008, 04:17 PM

thanks for the ideas. on another forum someone suggested Extira. http://www.extira.com/
I think i'll use it for the letters and the backer.

**mcocozzallc** · 01-08-2008, 06:30 PM

Originally Posted by smtitmas

I've got 3 storefront signs to make, each with individually cut out letters to be applied over a backer board(in one case its a 10' surfboard). i plan on using MDO for the backer but I'm not sure if the resin coating on the MDO will protect the edges of the letters from the elements. any thoughts about material choices? i was also thinking of dipping the letters in lacquer for a weather resistant finish.

Where are you at in florida? There's a signmaker directly across from my buddies cabinet shop in sarasota.. It's called mote signs, I am sure the guy would be happy to answer your questions.

**smtitmas** · 01-08-2008, 10:08 PM

Originally Posted by mcocozzallc

Where are you at in florida? There's a signmaker directly across from my buddies cabinet shop in sarasota.. It's called mote signs, I am sure the guy would be happy to answer your questions.

im in Venice and do alot of work in Srq. where is that sign shop?

**mcocozzallc** · 01-08-2008, 11:33 PM

up on 301 just south of 17th street. So good friends of mine. (family father and two sons) own Creature Comforts. Custom Furniture, Cabinets, Yacht Furniture builders. There's a sign shop directly across the road from them. Mote Signs. Look them up on 411 the guy is pretty cool.. Sorry I cannot remember his name at the moment.

I am from venice, family is from venice. Probably younger than you, but we might know some of the same people. good luck with the sign. Who's doing a surfboard sign by the way?

a good friend of mine own's The Compound. and I surf (when we get waves)

**smtitmas** · 01-09-2008, 05:26 PM

Originally Posted by mcocozzallc

I am from venice, family is from venice. Probably younger than you, but we might know some of the same people. good luck with the sign. Who's doing a surfboard sign by the way?

a good friend of mine own's The Compound. and I surf (when we get waves)

my little brother 30 and i 37 went to grade school at venice and nokomis elementary, i moved away but he went to ms and hs here. i only know one person i went to school with, Mark Good, he does solid surface tops here in town. a friend of mine who im taking kitesurfing lessons from has opened a Dojo and pro shop (kite and wake lessons)on the island down from the public beach. he needed signs so i suggested an old long board as the backer.

**mcocozzallc** · 01-10-2008, 04:55 PM

Is it ollies? A friend of mine is going to be managing the new windflight store down in venice ( i don't know the exact location) but I know they're naming it olies after my buddy drew's dog.

Anyhow. good luck with the sign. Some other good friends of mine own a cabinet shop up here (the one that used to be across from the sign shop) It's called creature comforts. They do all kinds of finish work and are very skilled and knowledgable in all areas from design to production.

I'm sure they'd be able to help you out too. if you want their number send me a PM

**smtitmas** · 01-10-2008, 10:51 PM

the name is Extreme Zen Adventaures and he specializes in power kite surfing and wakeboarding lessons and tranning.
i'll get in touch with the sign place next week, thanks for the suggestion.
i think the forecast looks good for some wind this weekend, maybe i'll see you out there.

**mcocozzallc** · 01-11-2008, 11:08 PM

Maybe.. Usually surf Lido in sarasota. Missed that last swell we had, but it's ok because I was snowbaording in Vail. ahha.. but still it's been a few weeks since I've been in the water.. sucks! If that sign shop cant help you call creature comforts and talk to a guy named Bill Booth.. He's pretty knowledgable.. His two sons work with him and they all surf. Good guys..

Mike

**DonMirabito** · 01-12-2008, 10:07 AM

smtitmas,
I don't know if you have made your decision about materials for your signage yet, but perhaps you might consider using "starboard" or something similar.

It can be found at various marine supply stores like Jamestown Distributors in Rhode Island.
See here for information: http://www.jamestowndistributors.com

Good Luck with the project...
Don

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