Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary Sign Standards ... Lake Sign... · Sign Standards Manual...

Sign Standards Manual

a

Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary

EcoLeaders Interpretation and

Environmental Education2006


Sanctuary Rules

No DogsSwan Lake and the

surrounding forest and wetland are the homes of many

No BicyclesBicycles pose a

danger to walkers and wildlife. To access Lochside

increasingly rare wildlife and plant species. Even the best-behaved dog can inadvertently damage important feeding sites or interfere with breeding and parental care of young birds and animals.

Trail please use the designated bike route.

Deep Water

Do Not Leave Children Unattended

Welcome


A place to explore A world to discover

Swan Lake Trails

YouAreHere

Swan Lake Christmas HillNature Sanctuary

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ContentsAbout this Manual … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … vChapter 1: First Principles … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 1

Introduction … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 1Sign Types … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 1

Information Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 1Interpretation Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 1

Core Criteria For Effective Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 3Visibility/Noticeability … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 3

Panel Orientation … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 3Consistent Sign Placement … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 3Panel Height … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 4

Readability … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 4Interpretive Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 5Information Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 5

Legibility … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 5Consistency … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 5Durability and Vandal Resistance … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 6

Chapter 2: Rules to Live By … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 7Streakers, Strollers and Studiers: A Classification of Sign Reader Behaviour … … … … … 7

Streakers … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 7Strollers … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 7Studiers … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 7

Some Gems from the US National Park Service … … … … … … … … … … … … 8PARC—the Four Basic Principles of Effective Design … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 9

Proximity … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 9Alignment … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 9Repetition … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 9Contrast … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 9

Rules for Using Text Well … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 10Text Justification … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 10Uppercase and Lowercase Letters … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 10Line Length … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 10Bold and Italic Text … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 11Paragraphs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 11Contrast … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 11

Text Dos and Don’ts … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 11

Chapter 2: Recommendations for Sign Placement … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …13Introduction … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …13Placing the Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …15

Information Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …15Trail Sign Location Standards … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …15

Signs on the Right … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …15Noticeable but not Obstructive … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …15Relevant Location … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …15Avoid Sign Congestion … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …15

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Road Sign Location Standards … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …15Highway Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …15Signs on Residential and Municipal Roads … … … … … … … … … … … … …15Sign Located On Boardwalks … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …15

Interpretation Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …16Interpretation Trail Nodes … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …16Relevance … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …16

Chapter 3: Recommended Sign Panel Details … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …17Introduction … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …17

Recommended Font Samples … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …18Recommended Fonts … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …19

Title and Headline Font … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …19Body Type Font … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …19Logo Font … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …19Font Availability … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …19

Recommended Text Sizes … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …19Exceptions to the Rule? … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …19

Recommended Font Colours … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …19Recommended Colour Palette … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …20

Additional Colours … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 21Recommended Panel Shapes and Sizes … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …22

Information Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …22Standard Panel … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …22Standard Double Panel … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …22Standard Post Panel … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …22Standard Double Post Panel … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …22Regular Caution Panel … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …22Christmas Hill Wayfinding Map Panel … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …22Large Caution Panel … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …22Automobile Wayfinding Panel … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …22Main Trailhead Panels … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …23Other One-of-a-Kind Information Panels … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …23

Interpretation Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …23Borders and Insets … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …24

Recommended Borders … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …24Recommended Border Width … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …24

Regular Information Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …24Large Information Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …24

Recommended Insets … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …24Edge Spacing … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …24

Optimum Edge Spacing … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …24Regular Information Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …24Large Information Signs … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …24

Recommended Use of the Logo … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …25Logo Text … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …25Relative Size of Logo and Text … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …25

Recommended Arrows and Pictograms … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …25Recommended Arrows … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …25

Line Thickness … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …25

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Arrowheads … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …25Recommended Pictograms … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …26

Deep Water … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …26Walking … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …26Pedestrian Access … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …26Parking … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …26Nature House … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …26Hiking … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …26

Recommended Map Standards … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …27What’s Unique about Wayside Maps? … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …27

Hints for Planning a Map … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …27Helping Befuddled Map Readers … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …27

Examples of Map Type to Scale … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …28Recommended Map Orientation … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …29

Recommendations for Materials … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …30When Choosing a Sign Fabricator Look For: … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …30

Pre-production Assistance from Sign Fabricator … … … … … … … … … … … …30Anti-Ultraviolet Resistant Coating or Pigment … … … … … … … … … … … … …30Lexan Panel Covers … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 31Vandal-Resistant Coating or Material … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 31Ease of Installation/Replacement … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 31Moderate Cost/Durability Ratio … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 31

Attachment of Panels to Posts … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 31To Wooden Posts and to Metal Backing Plates on Metal-Post Signs … … … … … … … 31Other Attachment Options … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 31

Emergency and Special Short-term Sign Panels … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 31Options … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 31

Maintenance Recommendations … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …32Cleaning Lexan … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …32Cleaning Other Sign Panel Materials … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …32Removing Scratches … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …32

Chapter 4: Recommendations about Posts and Post Mountings … … … … … … … … … … …33Introduction … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …33

Generalized Current Post Mount for 6" x 6” wooden posts … … … … … … … …34Materials … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …35Wood Posts … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …35

Standard Post … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …35Double Post … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …35

Steel Posts … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …35Post Mounts … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …35

Wooden Post Mounts … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …35Metal Post Mounts … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …35

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About this ManualIn the summer of 2006, the Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary Society contracted EcoLeaders Nature Interpretation and Environmental Education to review the site’s current information and interpretation signs system and develop a standards manual for signs.

This project resulted in two documents:• A Review of Information Signs and

Interpretation Signs at the Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary

• The Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary Sign Standards Manual

The first document contains a review of signs that were current in 2006, and assessment of their effectiveness and a series of recommendations based on current best practice.

This sign manual is the second document. It is a companion to the review document that provides further information on best practice in sign design. The author recognizes that the sign systems within the sanctuary are mature and well developed and that most of the design is done in-house by sanctuary staff. This manual is intended to assist these staff in developing a standardized system of signs that will be flexible and able to meet the needs of the sites for a long time. Sample Pages


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Chapter 1: First Principles

IntroductionThis chapter outlines the foundations for developing, delivering, supporting and evaluating effective wayfinding and interpretive signs. They consist of criteria and rules concerning best practice in trail side and roadside signs.

Sign TypesThis manual focuses on two types of signs:

Information SignsThis is the major type of sign used at the Swan Lake/Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. The functions of these signs include providing:

• direction/wayfinding • information • warning/restrictions

Interpretation SignsInterpretation and environmental education are core services provided at the nature sanctuary. The majority take the form of personal services provided by sanctuary staff and volunteers. However, the sites provide some non-personal services in the form of interpretation sign panels.

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An effective sign must meet the following criteria:

There are four key areas of good practice for effective signs:

• Visibility/Noticeability • Readability• Legibility• Consistency

Signs should be located appropriately to ensure that the reader will be aware of the sign, and so that the features addressed in the sign are nearby, preferably in clear view.

Signs should incorporate design elements that will make them noticed by passers-by, but not conspicuously clash with the landscape or obstruct pedestrian traffic. Color contrast and uniqueness of design can increase noticability.

Visability/Noticability depend on the factors discussed below:

Panel SizeThe size of panel effects noticability. In general small panels are less noticeable than larger panels. However, there are many instances where small panels are effective and may even be preferred e.g. when:

• the panel is located in an easy-to-see-location• a larger panel would interfere with the view• visitors have learned to expect small panels

Panel OrientationThe direction and angle of a sign panel can greatly effect noticability. A sign oriented to face squarely toward the direction from which visitors approach and within normal line of sight will be most noticeable.

Consistent Sign PlacementIn North America, we are used to most signs being located on the right side of the trail or road.

Whenever possible signs at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Sanctuary should follow this convention.

Visibility/Noticeability

Large sign panels are often located near trailheads. Their size helps to attract the attention of visitors and create a welcoming entry way. Smaller panels are effective further along the trail once visitors have learned to be on the look-out for them.

A panel that squarely faces oncoming visitors (above) is much more likely to be noticed than a sign with panels seen at an oblique angle (below).

Core Criteria For Effective Signs

Trail users look to the right for direction signs

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Panel HeightIn areas of dense vegetation where the line of sight is short, panels are best placed near head-height.

Noticability may be a challenge for signs and kiosks located along roads adjacent to the nature sanctuary where many signs vye for visitor attention.

Signs should be organized in a manner that engages visitors. Key words and phrases should be emphasized with larger letters, bolder type styles and additional colors. Ideas should be grouped logically and separated by layout and spacing. Color graphics and simple icons can greatly enhance the speed and effectiveness of these communications.

Visitors must be able to read the signs. This often involves ensuring that they can approach them closely, especially where maps or other detailed signs are concerned. Concepts of universal access should be considered.

Information SignsDirection and wayfinding signs generally contain short messages. These are best conveyed by a bold, sans serif font (for more, see Text Dos and Don’ts p.11).

Readability

This sign grouping features simple icons and bold colourful text to convey a number of regulatory messages

Acceptable Height: an eye-height panel.

Sub-optimal Height: a panel well below eye height is less noticeable as well as less readable.

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Interpretive SignsInterpretive signs contain short title, headers and captions plus larger bodies of text.

Titles, Headers And CaptionsAs with the short blocks of text in wayfinding signs, these short chunks of text are best rendered in a bold sans serif font (see Text Dos and Don’ts, p.11).

Body Text

These larger blocks of text may be hard to read if rendered in a sans serif font. Instead, a serif font is usually used.

Type style selection is critical to the effectiveness of signs. The font should convey the desired atmosphere without sacrificing legibility. It is a general rule to avoid the use of script, specialty type styles and words or headers in all-capital letters because they are difficult to read.

Direction and wayfinding signs generally contain short messages. These are best conveyed by a bold, sans serif font.

Information SignsConsistency of design including colour, font style and size, plus panel size and placement, helps to produce a unified message throughout the site. Visitors quickly learn to look for the distinctive size, shape, colour and design of the signs in the nature sanctuary. This consistency helps visitors navigate and to recognize a strong unity in the messages conveyed by the signs.

Interpretive SignsInterpretive signs along a trail can be thought of as pages or chapters of an on-going story with a theme and subthemes. Consistent design among the signs

Legibility

Consistency

This interpretation sign has a serif headline font and a contrasting, easily read cursive body text font.

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assists the reader in recognizing this. And if the content and design are appealing, the trail user may begin to look forward and actively seek the next similarly designed sign along the trail.

Durability and Vandal ResistanceThe location of the nature sanctuary within the city of Victoria near large numbers of people and the relative isolation of many areas, particularly Christmas Hill, exposes the wayfinding and interpretive signs to damage through vandalism.

All outdoor signs must incorporate design and materials that help to keep vandalism-related damage to a minimum.

Design FeaturesPosts and sign mountings should both be and look strong and able to resist determined vandalism. Heavy posts and thick mountings also can discourage vandalism by appearing to be so well built as to make an attempt at damage seem pointless. However, design must strive to make the sign structure visually appealing. Good-looking signs are usually less vandalized.

Panel SlopeAnother design feature is the angle at which the sign panels are oriented. Many universal access designs require that panels be placed fairly low to the ground on an oblique angle to make them readable from a wheel chair and from a standing position (good for children too). This angle is critical, too flat of an angle can result in the sign being obscured by accumulations of fallen leaves, bird droppings and other debris. The slope for the current Boundary/Welcome signs is ideal.

MaterialsHeavy wooden posts or stout steel posts and sign backings are good practice.

Panel materials should be scratch, fire and paint resistant. Panels may also be protected by layers of clear lexan.

Ease of ReplacementSigns will eventually succumb to weathering or vandalism or the need to be updated to fit new situations. The design of signs should accommodate easy and quick replacement of posts and panels.

Cost EffectivenessSign materials and design should keep the total cost of operating of the sign system to a minimum. Factors to be considered include costs for:• design• materials and initial fabrication• installation• maintenance• replacement

These factors will take into account the durability of posts mounts and panels. For example, some panel materials have high initial costs but are very durable, resisting weathering and vandalism and thereby greatly reducing the cost of maintenance and replacement.

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Rules to Live ByThis is a selection of good practice rules that can assist in developing and evaluating both information and an interpretation signs.

Streakers, Strollers and Studiers: A Classification of Sign Reader BehaviourInterpreters and exhibit designers often consider target audience interactions with signs and exhibits. The streaker, stroller, studier model is used most often when considering interpretive signs, but, it can be helpful when thinking about information signs as well.

StreakersThese visitors rarely spend more than a few seconds glancing at a sign or kiosk. They quickly assess the sign, look at icons, photos and illustrations and main headers and decide whether the sign has any interest for them. They may slow down as they pass but seldom stop walking.

Most research shows that streakers are by far the largest group of visitors at most sites.

Implications:For both information and interpretive signs, the key message must be short and clear.

Information Signs• short, bold headers and standardized icons

can be very effective• panel shape and colour can convey

important components of the message - e.g., bright yellow triangle signs

immediately convey a caution message

Interpretive Signs• use colourful photos and illustrations • use short engaging headers and titles that

outline the key themes

StrollersThese visitors are looking for engagement but their eyes are moving relatively quickly over the panels, again looking mainly at photos and images. They also read captions and smaller blocks of text.

This group is smaller than the streakers but can be a significant proportion of visitors.

Implications:Information SignsMost information signs convey simple messages • short blocks of text can be employed• short, bold headers and standardized icons

may be all that is needed

Interpretive Signs• integrate text with photos and illustrations

to keep blocks of text small (a picture can be worth a thousand words)- e.g., don’t repeat a message that in text

that is already expressed by a photo- consider diagrams with small amounts of

explanatory text

StudiersThese readers stop and spend much more time interacting with the sign, reading headers, subheadings and most blocks of text. They may follow instructions or suggestions about viewing specific features or wildlife, listening for sounds such as bird calls or train whistles, or smelling and touching specific items.

Studies show that about 20% of site visitors fit into the studying category generally.

Implications:Information SignsMost information signs convey simple messages and seldom require readers to spend much time to read. However, if it is necessary to provide an extended message: • remember that only about 20% of the site

visitors will read the entire sign• use design (colour, interesting headers,

illustrations, etc.) to entice readers• consider other complementary and/

or alternative methods for conveying the message (e.g., personal contact by staff, handing out a one-page flyer for a particular community campaign)

Interpretive SignsInterpretive sign design can accommodate all three types of interaction. Large, interesting images and bold colourful headers conveying

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the main themes and topics, addressing the streakers. The same images and headers plus small blocks text in large fonts provide more depth to fit the needs of the strollers. Finally, more text and detailed diagrams provide studiers with the richer engagement that they seek.

Ideally, a well designed, appealing sign panel has the potential to really catch the attention of passers-by, converting streakers into strollers and strollers into studiers.

Some Gems from the US National Park Service

Sign PlacementIn intersections, place signs to ensure that those coming from all directions can detect the information.

MessagingAvoid more than two messages and five lines of text in a single directional sign.

BuildingsDisplay hours of service in a prominent area near or on the building entrance as well as in the vestibule area.

Public amenities (e.g., restrooms) should be identified with pictograms, text, and Braille.

Consistency:Be consistent with text and graphic devices and the location of signs throughout the system.

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PARC—the Four Basic Principles of Effective DesignProximity, Alignment, Repetition and Contrast

ProximityItems that are related (headers, text and images) should be grouped together in coherent visual units that help the reader make connections.

Groupings can be emphasized by separation from

others by white space.

AlignmentGroupings of related headers, text and images can be further made coherent through aligning their edges with each other. This produces a clean,

sophisticated, fresh look.

RepetitionRepeating visual elements (colour, shape, texture, spacial relationships, icons etc.) helps to organize the messages and strengthens the unity within the sign and the sign system as a whole.

ContrastContrast is the process of visually separating units within the sign from other units, and is often the key to making a sign visually attractive. Contrast is achieved through type size, thickness, colour, background colour, shapes and images.

Sanctuary Rules

No Dogs

Swan Lake and the surrounding forest and wetland are the homes of many increasingly rare wildlife and plant species. Even the best-behaved dog can inadvertently damage important feeding sites or interfere with breeding and parental care of young birds and animals.

No Bicycles

Bicycles pose a danger to walkers and wildlife. To access Lochside Trail please use the designated bike route.

Proximity: The example on the left shows a sign where related headers, body text and images are not in close proximity. The example on the right has these related items grouped more closely, thereby aiding the reader to more easily take in all components of the message.

Sanctuary Rules

No DogsSwan Lake and

the surrounding forest and wetland are the homes of many increasingly

rare wildlife and plant species. Even the best-behaved dog can inadvertently damage important feeding sites or

interfere with breeding and parental care of young birds

and animals.

No BicyclesBicycles pose a danger to walkers and wildlife. To access Lochside


Sanctuary Rules







Sanctuary Rules







Poor alignment. Better alignment.

Bike Route

LochsideRegional

Trai l

3 kmkm

Lochside Regional Trail

Same Icon

Same font and style

Same colour and border design

Repetition in a family of direction signs is effective.

Deep Water


Welcome



Contrasting colours

Contrasting font style and weight

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Rules for Using Text WellThe following are some general rules for effective use of text in signs.

Text Justification• Title and headline text is either left justified or

centered.

• Body text is generally left justified, ragged right.

• Use either of these options consistently. Never mix left justified and centered titles on the same sign, or within a sign series.

Uppercase and Lowercase Letters• Titles and body text should use a mix of upper

and lower case text.

- body text use sentence case- first word of each sentence begins with a

capital - all other words except proper names are

all lower case (see Text Dos and Don’ts p.11)

- headline text use title case- use a capital letter to begin the first word,

the last word and all other important words

- leave uncapitalized only articles (a, the, an) and any conjunctions and pronouns that are less than five letters long (unless of course one of these is the first or last word)

• Avoid the using all capital letters.

- all-capital text settings may slow reading speed by as much as 13 percent and take up to 30 percent more space.

Line Length• The total number of letters and spaces per line

should be between 40 and 70.

- lines that are too long inhibit readability - often cause the same line to be read

twice.

JustificationLeft Justified, Ragged RightThis text lines up along an invisible line on the left side of the text box and has a ragged right edge. This format is ideal for body text. Readability studies show that this format is easiest to read. Also, it works well for long titles and headers.

Fully Justified,This text is lines up along invisible lines on both right and left sides of the text box. Your computer achieves this by adding differing amounts of space between the words in a line to push the right side of the text flush with the edge of the text box. This often works well, but big spaces between some words make it harder to read. It also sometimes has distracting rivers of space running vertically through the text. This style is seldom effective in titles.

Right Justified, Ragged LeftThis style is difficult to read in large chunks of

body text. It can be effective for some titles, or for short labels in diagrams.

CenteredThis style is often used effectively in titles and

headers. However, a mix of centered and left or right justified headers is confusing for most readers. Large chunks of centered body text are

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Chapter 2: Sign Placement Recommendations

IntroductionThis chapter identifies the guidelines for effective placement of signs.

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Placing the Signs

Information Signs

Trail Sign Location Standards

Every effort should be made to meet the criteria below. However, compromises may be necessary.

Signs on the RightWhenever possible signs should be located on the right hand side of the trail or road, facing on-coming traffic.

Noticeable but not ObstructiveSigns should be readily noticeable and also should not obscure the view of natural and scenic vistas. Ideally posts should be placed within 0.6 metres (two feet) of the edge of the trail. Closer is better as long as the sign does not obstruct the passage of walkers or obscure the view of drivers.

Relevant LocationSigns should be located where the reader will clearly understand the meaning.

Avoid Sign CongestionSign congestion should be avoided by spacing signs, or grouping them onto one post. This will give readers sufficient time to absorb the information.

Road Sign Location Standards

Highway SignsAll highway signs will conform to BC Ministry of Highway standards.

Signs on Residential and Municipal Roads Traffic design staff are responsible for design for placement of traffic signal systems, signs, road and pedestrian markings, and safety of motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

For information contact the District of Saanich Engineering Department at (250) 475-5575.

Placement of Road SignsLocation of road signs should follow similar guidelines as stated for trail signs:

• signs on the right• noticeable but not obstructive• relevant location• avoid sign congestion

Sign Located On BoardwalksIt is preferable that signs be located facing on-coming pedestrian traffic as opposed to being attached to the wooden slat railings of the boardwalk. The former are much more noticeable and easier to read.

Boardwalk Closed to Runners

The boardwalk is reserved for education

programs.

Please use the Boardwalk Bypass Route.

Sign directly facing pedestrian traffic (more visible).

Sign obliquely facing pedestrian traffic (less visible).

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Interpretation Signs

Interpretation Trail NodesWhenever possible, use interpretive nodes.

Interpretation signs are generally larger and more engaging than information signs. It is more likely that visitors will stop and spend some time interacting with the sign. As a result, they may cause congestion on the trail and hamper the movement of other trail users. This may also endanger trail users if the sign is located near a blind corner where runners may collide with stationary sign viewers. As well, signs located adjacent to the Lochside Trail may induce hazards where bikers may dismount in order to read interpretation signs. Their bicycles can become hazards for other cyclists, runners and walkers using the trail.

Interpretation nodes can reduce or eliminate these hazards.

RelevanceSigns must be located in view of the feature or process being interpreted.

An interpretive node at the Elsie King Trail, Francis/King Regional Park, Capital Regional District.

An interpretive node concept diagram.

A wildlife-watching interpretation sign overlooking a prime wildlife viewing site.

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Chapter 3: Recommended Sign Panel Details

IntroductionThis chapter identifies the design guidelines for effective and consistently designed signs. Examples of good practice models will be provided when appropriate.

The criteria discussed here will be guidelines rather prescriptive, allowing leeway for Swan Lake staff to develop signs that are appropriate to the situation, location and audiences. Criteria include:

• sign design- panel size- colours/shapes- fonts- text sizes- icons- materials (recommendations for materials to use in various situations)- mounting specifications- materials that can be use to protect panel face

• post- post specifications- post mounting specifications

The nature sanctuary has a well developed, mature sign system with many best practice structures and procedures already in place. This manual hopes to standardize these practices making them available to new staff, volunteers and contractors ensure constancy of good practice.

Welcome



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Headline and Map FontUniverse CondensedABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Universe Condensed ObliqueABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Universe Bold Condensed ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Universe Light ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Universe Light Oblique ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Universe RomanABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Universe ObliqueABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Universe BoldABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Universe Bold ObliqueABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Body Text FontUsherwood BookABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Usherwood Book ItalicABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Usherwood MediumABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Usherwood Medium ItalicABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Usherwood BoldABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Usherwood Bold ItalicABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Usherwood BlackABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Usherwood Black ItalicABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrsuvwxyz 1234567890

Logo FontZapf ChanceryA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S U V W X Y Za b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s u v w x y z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0

Recommended FontsThese fonts are recommended for use at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary.

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Recommended Fonts Fonts, or typefaces play a major part of the look and feel of an organization’s character. There are thousands of fonts available for signs and other communications. Some look clean and businesslike others look more relaxed, and some can look downright sloppy. The typeface chosen for signs plays an important role in the identity of a site. In subtle ways, a font set becomes an ambassador for your agency.

Fonts used in information and interpretation signs must, above all, be easily read.

The fonts families recommended below and on the on the facing page fit the criteria described in Chapter 1.

Recommended Fonts

Title and Headline Font• Universe Bold• Universe Bold Condensed

Body Type Font• Usherwood Book• Usherwood Medium

Logo Font• ITC Zapf Chancery

The original font used with the Swan Lake Christmas Hill logo was hand drawn. This limits options for use of the logo. We recommend the ITC Zapf Chancery medium italic as a replacement. This is a rounded script similar to the original script used with the site’s logo, and is relatively easily read even at a distance. This family of fonts has a wide variety of weights and styles too, giving it great versatility for sign design.

Font AvailabilityAll recommended fonts are available through Adobe Corp. either in Postscript Type 1 or OpenType formats.

Recommended Text Sizes

Trail SignsA key factor for trail signs is to be readable from a distance. A general rule of thumb is to try to ensure the smallest type is never under 20 points.

Headline (20 pt)Body Text (20 pt)

Exceptions to the Rule?Note that some information sign panels at this site are very small currently and may necessitate smaller text.

Recommended Font ColoursFonts can be selected from the Swan Lake Christmas Hill Colour palette (see p 20) as long as they contrast well with their background colour. Remember that large bodies of light coloured text on a dark background is harder to read than dark text on a light background.


Original logo with hand drawn logo text.

New logo with Zapf Chancry logo text.

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Consistent colour in signs is important in the corporate identity of the information and interpretation signs at the Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Many of the colours recommended here are already used in the site logo. They can be used in maps, illustrations text colours and backgrounds.

Note that this colour palette can greatly be extended by using various levels of shading, e.g.,

20% Red 40% Red 60% Red 80% Red 100% Red

Recommended Colour Palette

Name Formula SampleAlert Yellow Pantone Yellow

Black

Brown Pantone 145

Caution Orange Pantone 021

Green Pantone 356

Red Pantone 1795

Water Pantone 321

White

Sky Pantone 298

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This page is intentionally blank.

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Recommended Panel Shapes and SizesInformation SignsStandard Panel

• 10" x 5.5"• fit on angled (60º) face of standard 6" x 6"

wooden posts• rounded corners

- apply corner effects (rounded: 0.23")

Standard Double Panel• 10" x 11"• fit on angled (60º) face of two standard

6" x 6" wooden posts bolted together• rounded corners


Standard Post Panel• 2" x 5.5"• fit on vertical (90º) face of standard 6" x 6"

wooden post• rounded corners


Standard Double Post Panel• 4" x 5.5"• fit on vertical (90º) face of standard 6" x 6"



Regular Caution Panel• 5.5" x 5.5" equilateral triangle• fit on vertical (90º) face of standard 6" x 6"



Christmas Hill Wayfinding Map Panel• 5" x 10" • fit on angled metal plate• rounded corners


Large Caution Panel• 10" x 10" equilateral triangle• fit on flat (90º) face of boardwalk railings• rounded corners


Automobile Wayfinding Panel• 15" x 30" • mounted on metal post

Welcome

Swan Lake Christmas Hill N a t u r e S a n c t u a r y




programs.


Boardwalk Bypass Route

To

Nature Houseand

Teaching Shelter

Standard Panel10" x 5.5"

Standard Double Post Panel10" x 11"

Standard Post Double Panel4" x 5.5"

Standard Post Panel2" x 5.5"

Standard Panel attaches here

Standard Post Panel and Double Post Panel attach here

Standard6" x 6"post

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• rounded corners- apply corner effects (rounded: 0.23")

Main Trailhead Panels• 48" x 36"• fit on vertical (90º) face of a 50" x 38"

wooden backing panel located between 6" x 6" square metal posts

• rounded corners- apply corner effects (rounded: 0.23")

Other One-of-a-Kind Information PanelsSwan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary has a number of special, one-off information signs including:

• the main entrance sign• the Nature House identification sign• the major orientation/information sign

near the Nature House

All special sign panels should have the following characteristics that make them consistent with other signs in the system:

• same fonts • same colour palette and logos • rounded corners


Interpretation SignsThe majority of interpretation services at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary are personal programs provided by staff and volunteers. However, some non-personal interpretation is provided through interpretive signs.

Each interpretation sign or sign system addresses unique visitor needs and interests and may need specific design features to fit the audience, location and storyline. It is therefore not prudent to dictate specific size and shape parameters for interpretation signs. Instead, it is more important to follow standards that:

• help to distinguish the interpretation signs from the regular information signs

• provide consistency that helps visitors recognize each distinct set of related interpretation signs

This can be achieved through:• a sign shape that is:

- distinct from other signs in the system- consistent, helping visitors recognize each

sign as a component of an interpretation program

• a sign shape that is:- large enough to accommodate the

interpretation text and illustrations without becoming a wall between participant and nature

Deep Water


Deep Water


Regular Caution Panel 5.5" x 5.5"

Large Caution Panel: 10" x 10"

Automobile Wayfinding Panel15" x 30"

Major Trailhead Panel48" x 36"

Christmas Hill Wayfinding Map 5" x 10"

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Borders and InsetsRecommended BordersThe border gives the sign a finished appearance and makes it more conspicuous. Borders are required on all information signs.

Recommended Border WidthThe border width is dependent on the general sign size:

Border Width Sign TypeRegular Information Signs

5 point Standard Panel

Standard Double Panel

Standard Post Panel

Standard Post Panel

Regular Caution Panel

Large Caution Panel

Christmas Hill Map

Large Information SignsSign borders to be approximately equal to the letter stroke width (minimum 20 points).

Main Trailhead Panels

Automotive Wayfinding Panel

Other Large Panels

Recommended InsetsEdge SpacingThe distance between lines of text and the edge of the sign is called the edge spacing.

Optimum Edge Spacing

Sign Type

Regular Information Signs0.25"–0.5" Standard Panel

Standard Double Panel

Standard Post Panel

Standard Post Panel

Regular Caution Panel

Large Caution Panel

Christmas Hill Map

Large Information SignsThe optimum edge spacing to be equal to the greatest letter height in that line. The minimum shall not be less than 2/3 of the optimum.

Main Trailhead Panels

Automotive Wayfinding Panel

Other Large Panels


Nature House


Swan Lake Christmas HillNature Sanctuary Height of

Logo is equal to height of text block

Height of Logo is 1.3 times to height of text block

Logo Placement

Please avoid the boardwalk and

teaching trails near the Nature House

Use the Boardwalk Bypass Route.

Beveled Corners

Border5 points wide

Edge Spacing0.5" wide

Example of Border and Edge Spacing

Standard Panel reduced to 25%

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Recommended Use of the Logo The logo of the Swan lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is an important identity tool for the site. It’s clean simple design makes it ideal for use in signs throughout the sanctuary.

Two logo images are in use:

Simple Colour Logo Complex Colour Logo

The simple colour logo will provide the most vivid output. It is recommended for all signs where a logo is used.

Logo TextLogo text is text that goes with the graphic logo above. In this case the text contains the name of the site in ITC Zapf Chancery medium italic. Like the logo consistency in logo test is important for conveying a consistent image to the public.

Relative Size of Logo and TextIt is recommended that the height of the logo shall be:

• equal to the height of the logo text block when placed beside it

• be 1.3 times the height of the logo text block when placed above it (see facing page)

Arrows and pictograms are key components of direction signs and maps. Consistency of design throughout the sign system contributes to the uniform look and feel of the signs and consistent host presence.

Recommended Arrows and Pictograms

Arrows Arrows are used to indicate direction of movement on trails and on roads to specific destinations, or to indicate desired direction of movement.

Line ThicknessArrows must be easily seen. The thickness of lines should be at least as thick as the line thickness of accompanying text.

ArrowheadsSwan Lake Christmas Hills staff use Adobe Creative Suite applications for graphic work. We recommend using the default triangle line ending for constructing arrowheads.

Exit

Arrowhead selection in Adobe InDesign

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Recommended Pictograms Pictograms are simple images or symbols that are used in signs and maps to communicate important ideas. A standardized set of pictograms must be used to consistently convey a message and to maintain a consistent host image.

Ideally pictographs replace words. Signs that include a pictograph should not need words to explain them. The exception occurs when new pictographs are introduced to a sign system. It is good practice to include explanatory text for the first six months to allow repeat visitors to get used to the new symbols.

The following are the standard pictograms for use at the Swan Lake Christmas Hills Nature Sanctuary:

Cycling Allowed Here No Cycling

Cycling Allowed Here No Cycling

Running

Deep WaterCycling Nature House

Walking Hiking

No Dogs Disabled Parking

Pedestrian Access

Note: These pictograms have been provided in Adobe Illustrator files as part of the eltronic version of this report

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The intent of map standards is to establish a common map language throughout the nature sanctuary. Over time, visitors will likely see and use most of the maps in the system. They should find that the wayside maps look, feel, and function in a similar way. Map standards, like the whole set of sign standards, should serve as a guide, not as a hard-and-fast set of rules.

What’s Unique about Wayside Maps?Unlike maps printed on paper, wayside maps can only be used on-site and cannot be carried away with the visitor for further reference. They also cannot be turned to align the map features with what can be seen from the sign location. The wayside audience is a pedestrian audience. The You Are Here is the most important feature on a wayside map.

Orientation maps should provide only the necessary information to assist a visitor traveling from the site where the map is located to point B. Wayside maps work best when they have a clear focus. They should not include all the information you would see in a photograph or on the ground. Only those elements

which are relevant to the purpose of the map should be shown.

Helping Befuddled Map ReadersMaps are complex abstract spatial models of reality, and some people have difficulty reading them. To assist this group of visitors you can include simple direction signs as supplements to maps. Key locations for supplemented maps can be:

• at the main parking lot- simple arrow signs showing the way to

the Nature House and Teaching Shelter• near the Nature House

- simple arrow signs showing the way to the main parking lot

Hints for Planning a Map

SiteThe specific location of the wayside map is critical in determining the content of the map.

PurposeWhen planning a new map it is essential to establish clear intent. A map may not always be the only appropriate graphic solution.

AudienceRemember that the wayside audience is a pedestrian audience, facing in a particular direction, with a view of specific landscape and structural features.

Size and ScaleThe size and scale of the map is based on its purpose, the amount of space available, and the geographic area and content of the map. A poorly designed map can mislead people if, for example, short distances appear to be very long. Generally, maps should be created at the same size as will be used in the final reproduction. This eliminates visual problems such as text too small to read—if the original map is scaled down for production.

LayoutAvoid placing maps within maps. Readers don’t know where one ends and the other starts. Avoid placing non-map information on maps.

OrientationIn general, maps work best when north is at the top of the map. However, wayside maps often work better when they are oriented in the same direction as the viewer. More information on orientation is included on page 8.

ContentDetermine what geographical information and labels to include on the map. These are not design decisions at this point, but rather informational choices. Only those elements which are relevant to the purpose of the map should be shown. Gather resource maps to be used for base information, keeping in mind that these reference maps were created for different purposes. Consider the wording used on the map to be sure it doesn’t conflict with the signs used in the sanctuary or the wording used in the other signs.

Include a legend, scale and a north-pointing direction arrow whenever possible.

Recommended Map Standards

Swan Lake Trails

YouAre

Here


Nature House

A simple direction signs supplementing a wayside map

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Recommended Map Typography

General Rules of Thumb• All type is in Universe, as described earlier. • All effort should be made not to use type

smaller than 14 point. • All type prints black ink except type that

must be placed over a dark colour. • When positioning labels and symbols, try to

avoid overprinting linework. • Avoid using punctuation marks. • Point sizes listed below are not fixed, but

should be used as a guide for establishing a visual hierarchy of labels.

Map Title• 30 point bold• title case (see definition in Chapter 1)• print black

Main Point Of Interest• 24 point bold• title case

Other Points of Interest• 18 point bold• title case

Roads and TrailsRoad Name

• 14 to 18 point regular• title case • align text to road, showing type above the

road line whenever possible

Trail Name• 14 to 18 point regular• title case • align to trail

Natural FeaturesLake Name

• 18 point bold italic,• title case

Creek Name• 14 point italic• title case• align text to drainage as in roads (see

above)

Other Labels and Notes• 14 point regular• title case

Legend Entries• 14 to 18 point regular• title case

Map Title

Main Point of Interest

Other Points of InterestRoad

Trail

LakesCreeks

Other Labels and Notes

Legend Entries

Examples of Map Type to Scale

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It is conventional to orient most maps with north at the top, however wayside maps often work better when oriented to match the direction of view. The following guidelines were developed by the US National Parks Service for use in determining how to orient a wayside map.

Maps should be oriented with north at the top for:

1. maps which show a large area (entire sanctuary or an area that includes features that cannot be seen from the location of the map)

2. maps used in more than one location with different You Are Here dots

3. maps used on kiosks

4. visitors are likely to have a published map in hand and may use it for cross-reference

A map can be oriented in the direction of the view when:

1. it shows a small area with features that can be readily seen from the location of the map

2. it is used on an upright sign panel that is facing south

Swan Lake Trails

YouAreHere


A Mock-up of a trail map that could be used the Swan Lake trail system.

Recommended Map Orientation

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Recommendations for Materials

Sign PanelsSign fabricators provide a wide variety of proprietary sign panel manufacturing processes. New materials and processes come onto the market every few years and small local companies come and go. This makes it difficult to identify specific materials and processes for sign panels. Instead, this manual identifies the key attributes to look for in choosing a material for sign panels.

Replacement SignsAlways keep digital copies of existing signs in two separate locations (e.g., separate CD ROMs or DVDs at the Nature House and at the home of a staff person). This will ensure that replacement copies of the sign can be fabricated even if one copy is lost or damaged.

When Choosing a Sign Fabricator Look For:

Pre-production Assistance from Sign FabricatorDoes the fabricator identify:

• design applications supported (e.g., Adobe InDesign

• recommended transfer media (e.g., CD ROM) and provide methods for transfer of your design files to the fabrication site (e.g., a FTP site)

• colour requirements (e.g., Pantone or CMYK) • instructions on use of fonts (e.g., use only

postscript fonts, include copies of all fonts used, or convert all fonts to outlines)

• scaling issues (e.g., designs should be produced at 100% final size)

• other design instructions for:- bleeds- text and image distance from edges of panel- specific instructions if using particular

design programs

Anti-Ultraviolet Resistant Coating or PigmentUltraviolet light is a major enemy of outdoor signs. Over several years it can bleach the colour dramatically. Most major fabricators claim to incorporate U-V protection into their sign panels. Many make guarantees that their product will not fade for anywhere from five to twenty years.

Make sure that the fabricator has:• a written guarantee • a replacement policy

Swan Lake Trails

YouAre

Here

5.5" x 10" ¼" clear lexan

5.5" x 10" ¼" to 1/8 thick sign panel

5.5" x 10" mounting surface on post

Standard 6" x 10" post and panel design. Note that lexan cover can be omitted if the panel material is highly vandal resistant.



programs.


� �

�

��

�

Lochside Regional Trail

�

��

�

Screw locations for Standard Panel and Standard Post Panel.

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Lexan Panel CoversLexan is a polycarbonate plastic that is often used as a protective cover for signs at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. It provides relatively high levels of protection from ultraviolet light, impact and fire.

Solar-grade, transparent lexan sheeting should be used as a protective cover for all sign panels that are not composed of UV-resistant materials.

Vandal-Resistant Coating or MaterialSwan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is located in an urban setting with many entrances and a high visitation rate. These factors increase the potential for vandalization of signs. As a result signs must be designed to make vandalism difficult. Panels must:

• incorporate vandal-resistant materials or • include a clear lexan cover

Key vandal resistant qualities should include resistance to:

Type of Vandalism How ReducedScratching • replaceable scratch-resistant

lexan cover• scratch-resistant panel

materials

Localized Burninge.g., from a cigarette lighter

• replaceable heat-resistant lexan cover

• heat-resistant panel materials

Spray Paint • replaceable lexan cover• panel materials that can

be cleaned by non-abrasive solvents

Removal of Panels • use of tamper-resistant screws and bolts

• special adhesives provided by sign fabricators (some fabricators claim to use adhesives that can be removed only by using special solvents)

Ease of Installation/ReplacementAll sign panels must be installed such that they can be replaced in the field with a maximum of ten minutes of labour.

Moderate Cost/Durability RatioSigns must be durable, thereby reducing the amount of time and labour needed to maintain them. Higher cost sign materials may be considered only if they provide a substantial level of durability over those that they replace.

Attachment of Panels to Posts

To Wooden Posts and to Metal Backing Plates on Metal-Post SignsThe standard method for attachment is to use tamper-proof screws. There are a wide variety of designs on the market. Each design requires a special driving tool to install and remove screws. The following standards are recommended:

• choose one standard design for use throughout the sign system

• if possible, choose a local, well-established supplier

• ensure that several driving tools are on-hand (a minimum of three) to ensure that replacements can continue even if a driving tool is lost

• screw length to be approx. 1"• optimum number of screws:

- six for standard panel (see diagram on facing page)

- four for standard post panel (see diagram on facing page)

Other Attachment OptionsSigns such as the major trailhead panels and interpretation panels should use adhesives to attach panels to metal or wooden backing panels.

Emergency and Special Short-term Sign PanelsThese sign panels can be used for short periods of up to two weeks for emergency purposes.

OptionsLaminated Inkjet PaperInkjet printers using archival pigments can produce colourful temporary signs that do not fade even in direct sunlight.

The inks used by these printers is not water soluble and will not run when exposed to water. However, the paper is susceptible to water damage. Therefore these panels must be protected by lamination that extends beyond the edge of the paper so that the paper is sealed within the plastic sheeting. The laminated paper should be supported by a coreplast backing.

Coreplast/Vinyl Lettering on Coreplast BackingMany sign shops can provide quick vinyl lettered signs on colourful coreplast backing.

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Maintenance Recommendations

Cleaning LexanClean lexan sheet with any mild soap or detergent and warm water, using a soft cloth or sponge.

Avoid abrasive cleansers such as Vim or Ajax, and also avoid hard bristle brushes, scouring pads or squeegees.

Only recommended cleaning liquids should be used. These usually include: • Joy • VMP grade naphtha • Palmolive Liquid • Windex with Ammonia D

Cleaning Other Sign Panel MaterialsAvoid cleaners that contain abrasives. Never use solvents or scouring brushes, unless expressly recommended by the sign fabricator.

Removing ScratchesLexanAuto supply stores can provide kits for removal of small to moderate scratches.

Other Sign Panel MaterialsAlways check with the sign fabricator for instructions.

Fabricator’s Maintenance InstructionsSome fabricators provide maintenance information for their material.

Many institutions now require a maintenance manual to be provided by the sign fabricator as part of all sign fabrication contracts.Sample Pages

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