Pros and Cons of Monument Signs

If you’ve driven past a business park, hospital, school, or shopping center in Utah, chances are you’ve noticed a monument sign. These freestanding signs sit low to the ground, often made of stone, brick, stucco, or metal, and they serve as powerful landmarks for businesses and organizations. At Davis Signs Utah, we’ve seen firsthand how monument signs can elevate a property—but like any investment, they come with both advantages and drawbacks. Let’s take a closer look.

Pros of Monument Signs

1. Strong Curb Appeal

Monument signs make a bold first impression. Unlike smaller or temporary signage, they have a permanent and professional look that communicates stability. When built with high-quality materials, they can match your building’s architecture and landscaping, helping your property look polished and cohesive. According to the International Sign Association, signage is responsible for drawing nearly 50% of new customers to businesses—and a monument sign often does the heavy lifting at street level.

2. Excellent Visibility

Because they are placed close to eye level, monument signs are easy for both drivers and pedestrians to see. In Utah, where many properties sit back from the road or behind parking lots, a monument sign ensures people don’t miss your business. With options like LED message boards or backlit lettering, your sign can stay visible day and night.

3. Long-Lasting Investment

Monument signs are designed to withstand weather extremes—from Utah’s snowy winters to blazing summer heat. Materials like stone, brick, and aluminum resist fading, cracking, and corrosion, making them a durable, long-term investment. With proper maintenance, a monument sign can last for decades.

4. Brand Recognition

A monument sign can showcase your logo, colors, and even unique textures to reinforce your brand identity. When people see your sign repeatedly on their commute, your business becomes part of their mental map of the area. This familiarity builds trust and helps attract repeat customers.

5. Flexibility in Design

Today’s monument signs aren’t just static structures. They can be customized with digital message boards, lighting, dimensional letters, or landscaping accents. Whether you want something traditional and elegant or modern and sleek, you can tailor a monument sign to fit your vision.

Cons of Monument Signs

1. Higher Upfront Cost

One of the biggest challenges of a monument sign is the initial expense. Depending on materials, design, and added features (like LED displays), costs can run into the tens of thousands of dollars. While it’s a long-term investment, it may feel steep compared to other types of signage.

2. Installation Requirements

Because of their size and permanence, monument signs often require permits, zoning approval, and professional installation. Some Utah cities have specific restrictions on height, size, or lighting, which can limit design options or extend project timelines.

3. Space Limitations

Not every property is ideal for a monument sign. They require adequate frontage space for visibility and safety. If your business sits in a crowded downtown area or on a small lot, you may find a wall sign or pylon sign more practical.

4. Maintenance Needs

Although monument signs are durable, they’re not maintenance-free. Stucco can chip, landscaping may need upkeep, and LED message boards require occasional servicing. Without proper care, a monument sign can lose its impact over time.

5. Less Portable

Unlike banners or wall signs, monument signs are permanent fixtures. If your business relocates, you can’t take the sign with you. This lack of flexibility means you’ll want to be confident in your location before investing.

Final Thought

For many Utah businesses, monument signs are worth every penny. They deliver curb appeal, visibility, and lasting brand presence that other signage simply can’t match. However, the cost, installation requirements, and permanence mean they’re not right for every property.

At Davis Signs Utah, we specialize in helping businesses evaluate their signage needs and design monument signs that fit both budget and branding. If you’re considering a monument sign, our team can guide you through local permitting, design options, and long-term maintenance so you can make the best choice for your business.

Sources:

International Sign Association, Sign Research Foundation Reports (signresearch.org)
Small Business Chronicle, The Importance of Signage
Davis Signs Utah (davissignsutah.com)

Monument Sign Quotes in Salt Lake City

Davis Signs Utah can provide free estimates for customers from Ogden to Salt Lake City and surrounding areas. Give Davis Signs Utah a call today at 801-823-3100.