How are monument signs made?

A monument sign is made through a multi-step process of design, engineering, fabrication, permitting, and installation that turns a solid base of masonry, stone, or finished aluminum into a low, freestanding monument sign at a property's entrance. Monument signs are also called ground signs because they sit at or near ground level rather than being raised on poles. Each one is built for a permanent, architectural presence, which is why the process is more involved than for a printed or wall-mounted sign. The team at Signarama manages every step, from the first design concept to the finished installation. 

Step 1: Design and engineering 

Every monument sign starts with a design that matches the building, the brand, and the site. Once the look is set, the structure is engineered so the base and footing will hold up over time. 

• Design concept covering shape, materials, lettering, and lighting. 

• Structural engineering for the base and foundation. 

• A site review of setbacks, sight lines, and landscaping. 

Step 2: Choosing the materials 

Materials are selected for durability and finish, since a monument sign lives outdoors and is meant to last for years. 

• Stone, brick, or masonry for a traditional, substantial look. 

• Concrete or finished aluminum for a clean, modern base. 

• Dimensional lettering, push-through acrylic, or routed faces for the message. 

Step 3: Fabrication 

With materials chosen, the sign is built. Timelines vary with the complexity of the design and the materials involved. 

• Masonry bases are laid or formed and finished by hand. 

• Metal components are cut, welded, and painted or coated. 

• Lettering and graphics are produced and prepared for mounting. 

Step 4: Permitting and approvals 

A monument sign cannot go in the ground until the local jurisdiction signs off, so permitting runs alongside fabrication. 

• Permit applications submitted to the local jurisdiction. 

• Zoning and setback review for placement and size. 

• Monument signs are generally easier to permit than tall pole signs because of their lower height. 

Step 5: Foundation and installation 

The finished sign is transported to the site and set on a foundation built to anchor it permanently. 

• A foundation is excavated and poured to anchor the sign. 

• The sign is positioned, leveled, and secured to the footing. 

• Electrical and lighting connections are completed where the sign is illuminated. 

How long it takes to make a monument sign 

Most of the timeline is driven by permitting and foundation work rather than fabrication itself. Permit review can run from a couple of weeks to a couple of months depending on the jurisdiction, and material-heavy bases add fabrication time. Signarama sequences the approvals and the build so the project stays on schedule. 

Planning your monument sign 

If you are still weighing options, a tall pole sign trades the close-range, premium look of a monument for distance visibility. When a monument sign is the right fit, Signarama handles design, engineering, plans and permits, fabrication, and installation as one coordinated project. Share your site and your building, and the team can recommend materials and a finish to match.