How many times have you moved
signs for a customer that you know were intended to be temporary.
Setting 4'x8' development signs on 4"x4" posts is part of the business,
anchoring them properly so they stay true is the key. What better
to hold a post in the ground than concrete, right? Yes, I'll confirm
that for you so you don't think I want everything installed in sand.
Here is where you and your
customer decide if their sign is permanent or temporary. Explain to
your customer that permanent means never to be moved. Temporary is
permanent with intentions of moving down the road - up to two years.
Confusing? Of course it is. Let me explain.
A developer has a plot of land in
which he intends on selling (lots). He would like a development
sign, a permanent sign, in his mind located at each end of the
development. You say no problem, we can do that for you. You
produce the signs and install them on the lot he designated in concrete.
(after you called underground utilities to mark the lot of course - Right?)
You feel great, that sign is not going to budge in 60 mph winds. Two
weeks later, the developer calls you and says that your signs are
fantastic, lots are selling quick including the lot you installed the
development signs on. What? you say. Yes - the sign needs to
be moved. How's your back feel? You break up the cement from
the posts and reinstall the sign further into the development on another
lot. Let me guess, in concrete right? Lets say two months go
by and you forgot all about that sign until you get a call. He needs
you to move the sign again, chills run down your spine. You do the
whole thing over again.
Now, let's talk about
Construction Grade Sand. The same price as concrete with the same
dry properties. Sand repacks itself over and over, will not heave
when frozen and is easier to break up than concrete. Ever walk on a
beach near the water and see your footprints? Great your thinking, another
story - read on. When the tide comes in, the water repacks and the
sand fills in all your footprints. Well, if a post is in the ground
1/4 it's total length and you pack sand all around it, It will have the
same holding properties as concrete. Next post installation, try the
sand method. Make sure you use Construction Grade, it's rough and
inconsistent properties work best. Not only will your back feel
better after a move, you'll be surprised how much time you save.
There is an old adage, "Time is money", I say "Time is profit".
If you would like - e-mail me at info@signhunter.com and let me know if
this article was helpful.
Christopher Flejtuch
Signhunter.com
