Because there are many types of parking space applications in a typical parking lot, multiple sizes of signs are often utilized. For example, an ADA parking sign is usually 12 x 18″ as mandated by ADA compliance requirements, whereas a curbside pickup sign is generally larger to account for additional text and graphics. Wayfinding and directional signs can be even larger, as they may need to be seen from the road – for example, to direct traffic to a designated curbside pickup area in the parking lot.
In addition to requirements for the size of the sign, there are also other factors to consider, including the composition of the parking lot surface (asphalt, concrete or natural ground), and the frequency of usage for a particular parking space. A curbside pickup area may be near the front of a store, and facing a customer walkway with a curb composed of concrete. In this case, a signpost/bollard with concrete mounting hardware would be required, and because this type of space is heavily trafficked, a signpost/bollard with a heavy-duty base/spring would be ideal.
This blog explores three categories of parking lot signage: large regulatory signs, standard-sized signs, and decals/labels – and the types of signposts/bollards recommended for each.
Large Regulatory Signs
Sign Size: Up to 18 x 24″
(24 x 36″ if using 2 posts)
FlexPost-XL
Depending on conditions, signs up to 18 x 24″ may perform fine in areas with low or intermittent winds. However, in a a windy environment, a smaller sign is recommended, even with the strength of the XL heavy-duty galvanized base, as the sign begins to act like a sail in high winds and can be potentially pushed over.
Click here to view our chart showing degrees of deflection based on wind and force.
FlexPost signposts are available in finished heights of 78″, 102″ or 108″ to meet the specifications of a particular parking space.
A set of sign brackets is included (with both XL and Standard signposts), and can be re-positioned by sliding up or down the post and simply re-tightening the set screw. These sign brackets are double-sided, which allows signs to be mounted on both sides of the post. This creates the ability to utilize just one post for two adjacent head-in parking spaces, which is particularly advantageous for ADA or other reserved spaces. For mounting multiple signs on one post, simply add more sign brackets.
Mounting hardware for asphalt, concrete, or natural ground is also included with each FlexPost, with the option for Heavy-Duty Asphalt Anchoring, or HDAA. HDAA includes a quick-drying grout mixture, which is designed for securing signposts in parking lot surfaces with a thinner (or softer) layer of asphalt. Asphalt surfaces in parking lots in the Southern U.S. are often of this nature, due to the warmer climate.
Bollard and signpost combinations are also available, and bollard colors can be customized to match virtually any brand color scheme.
Standard-Sized Signs
Sign Size: Up to 12 x 18″
Pyramid Sign Base System
Our FlexPost-SM Pyramid Sign Base System is ultra-portable, and is ideal for situations where holes cannot be drilled in the parking lot surface due to restrictions from landlords, etc.
Standard FlexPost
Our Standard FlexPost is more of a semi-permanent to permanent solution. If the parking lot needs to re-configured, simply remove the 4 bolts and fill in the holes.
The Standard FlexPost serves a similar function as a traditional “breakaway sign post” or “breakaway bollard” but with an innovation that allows the post to flex and be impacted over and over again. Breakaway posts and bollards are designed with a fulcrum point and hardware near the lower end of the post, which allows the post to give way when struck by a vehicle. However, when the post breaks, a projectile may result, which could damage other vehicles or injure bystanders. A FlexPost is designed to bend at the spring, and then return to an upright position.
In some cases, two FlexPosts can be utilized for extra large signs – for example, the 24 x 36″ directional sign shown below.
FlexPost Rigid
Our FlexPost Rigid can be utilized in an environment where a flexible post is not desirable. For example, areas with consistent high-winds. FlexPost Standard units can also be retrofitted using a Rigid adapter. The FlexPost Rigid utilizes the same base as the Standard, which provides for easy installation with four included bolts into asphalt, concrete or natural ground.
Decals or Labels vs. Metal Sign
Delineator Paddle
Delineator Paddles work well for marking designated parking spaces or lanes where a decal or label may be a better solution than an aluminum attached sign. The decal adheres directly to the face of the paddle, which includes either a turn-and-lock base mounted directly to the parking lot surface, or an 18 pound portable rubber base. Because the paddle is designed to be portable, a smooth decal, without the edges of a traditional metal sign, makes for a safer and easier to manage solution.
Contact us today to discuss your parking lot project. We can help you determine the best signpost for your parking lot signage application.
