Wayfinding Signs

We specialize in designing new wayfinding systems from the ground up. Or if you need to simply modify existing signage, we can match the existing type, colors, and design to keep your signs looking great.

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Insights

Uses

Wayfinding signs are designed to help people navigate a space quickly and confidently.You’ll find them in places like hospitals, airports, office buildings, universities, shoppingcenters, and large residential complexes. These signs include directional arrows, floordirectories, room identifiers, and informational panels that guide visitors from point A topoint B. The goal is simple: reduce confusion and make it easier for people to movethrough unfamiliar environments without needing constant assistance.

Benefits

One of the main benefits of wayfinding signage is improved efficiency and userexperience. When a space is clearly marked, visitors spend less time searching forlocations and staff spend less time giving directions. This is especially important in largeor high-traffic facilities where clear navigation can reduce stress and congestion.Wayfinding systems also contribute to safety by clearly marking exits, stairwells, andemergency routes. When designed consistently, they create a visual language thathelps people understand where they are and where they need to go at a glance.

Installation

Installation of wayfinding signs depends on the layout and complexity of theenvironment. Many signs are wall-mounted at consistent heights to ensure visibility andpredictability. Others may be ceiling-suspended, projecting from walls, or placed onstands in open areas. Placement is carefully planned so signs are visible at decisionpoints like intersections, elevators, and entrances. In larger facilities, installation is oftenpart of a coordinated signage system, where spacing, typography, and materials arestandardized to maintain consistency throughout the building.

Care

Caring for wayfinding signs involves keeping them clean, readable, and up to date.Regular cleaning with a soft cloth helps maintain clarity, especially in high-touch or high-traffic areas where dust and fingerprints can build up. It’s also important to periodicallyreview signage for accuracy, since room numbers, departments, or layouts can changeover time. Damaged or outdated signs should be replaced promptly to avoid confusion.With consistent maintenance, wayfinding systems continue to function as a reliableguide for visitors and staff alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Elmark Sign Company help identify where wayfinding signs are needed and/or what is listed?

Yes, Elmark Sign Company's experts can survey the property and consult with customers on the design, placement, and content of wayfinding signs and/or directories.

What materials can be used for wayfinding signs and directories?

Most exterior wayfinding signs and directories are made of aluminum and/or acrylic, but Elmark Sign Company can also fabricate signs from other metals, plastics, and wood/high density urethane (HDU).

Are wayfinding signs and directories interior or exterior?

Wayfinding signs and directories are very common in both interior and exterior environments. Whether navigating a campus, parking lot, or a series of walkways outside, or finding key areas, rooms, and facilities inside, they are essential to both new and frequent visitors and staff.

Can Elmark Sign Company match custom colors and/or other branding requirements?

Yes, Elmark Sign Company can match specific Pantone colors, logo specifics, and finish requirements to adhere to exacting brand requirements or personal tastes. Our design team will produce a rendering of the project to ensure the vision comes to life just as planned.

Does Elmark Sign Company provide wayfinding signs and directories that clients can later update themselves?

Yes, we have interior wayfinding sign and directory designs that have a clear, non-glare acrylic or flexible Lexan window protecting an updatable, printed cardstock. In the future, the cardstock can be replaced when departments move, tenants move out, or other changes are needed.

How much do wayfinding signs and directories cost?

Simple, interior wayfinding signs can cost a couple hundred dollars up to several thousand for large, complex installations. Exterior signs are often at least a thousand when installation costs are included.

How long does it take to produce wayfinding signage?

Interior wayfinding signs can take a couple days to two weeks, depending on the uniqueness of the materials used. Exterior wayfinding signs commonly take several weeks to fabricate, paint, and prepare.