Indoor signs
8/21/2024
In the cities close to the Texas Gulf where the weather can change at the drop of a hat, preparing your business for hurricanes, tropical storms, or tornadoes is paramount. At Image360 Katy, we understand the devastation that severe weather can bring, particularly to signage, which can hurt your business’ visibility, appearance, and if left unfixed, your business’ reputation. We have an easy-to-follow guide on how small and medium sized businesses can safeguard their signage from unpredictable storms like the most recent Beryl.
Before the Storm: Planning and Prevention
During the Storm: Safety First
During a hurricane or severe storm, the primary focus should be on the safety of personnel and securing the premises. Ensure that the precautions taken for signage do not pose a risk to personal or public safety.
After the storm has passed, it's crucial to swiftly assess any damage to your signage. This step is vital for a prompt recovery and to maintain your business operations. Here's a basic step-by-step process for what to do after the storm has passed.
Immediate and Thorough Assessment
Once it's safe to do so, conduct a comprehensive inventory of your signage. Look for obvious signs of damage such as cracks, chips, dents, or missing parts. Equally important is to check for less obvious damage like water infiltration in electronic or illuminated signs, which can cause long-term functionality issues if not addressed.
Document Everything
Take clear, detailed photographs of all damage from multiple angles. These images are crucial for any insurance claims and for planning the recovery process with your preferred sign shop. Documentation can also help in assessing whether repeated damage to certain signs might call for a reconsideration of the material it’s made of, or its placement for better resilience in future storms.
Professional Inspection and Consultation
Contact us at Image360 Katy for a professional assessment. Experts can spot damage you might have missed, advise on whether repair or replacement is more cost-effective, and identify improvements for future storm resistance. This consultation can be an opportune time to discuss upgrading to more durable materials or technology.
Develop a Recovery Plan
Based on the professional assessment, develop a plan for repairing or replacing damaged signage. Prioritize signs critical to your operations, such as entrance signs or those directing customers to your location. Image 360 Katy or your preferred sign shop can provide timelines and cost estimates to guide your decision-making.
Communicate with Your Customers
Loss of business can easily be mitigated by keeping your customers in the loop about damage and recovery. Be sure to use temporary signs, social media, and any other available channels to keep your customers informed of your recovery progress. Transparency about the state of your operations can maintain customer trust and loyalty during the recovery process.
This post-storm response is not just about fixing what's broken. It's an opportunity to strengthen your business against future challenges by investing in more durable, storm-resistant signage solutions. Remember, your signs are not just markers and advertisements; they are vital to your brand identity and customer experience. Maintaining their integrity, even in the hardest times, speaks volumes to your commitment to your business and those you serve. Repairing or replacing signage after a storm can be expensive. However, proactive measures can mitigate these costs and ensure your business remains visible and communicates effectively with your customers, even in the aftermath of a significant weather event. At Image360 Katy, we're here to help with all your signage needs, from preparation to recovery. With proper planning and strategic execution, you and your signage can weather the storm, keeping your business strong in the face of nature's challenges.
