Sign and Storefront Painting: Common Mistakes & What to Know

Your storefront is often the first impression customers have of your business, and a well-painted sign or storefront can signal professionalism before a customer walks through the door. Unfortunately, after DIY attempts or rushed commercial jobs, correcting mistakes in sign painting is something many business owners have to face. There are many ways these painting faux-pas can happen, but here are some of the most common mistakes we see.

Skipping Proper Surface Preparation

One of the most frequent and costly painting mistakes is inadequate prep work. Surfaces that aren’t thoroughly cleaned, de-greased, sanded, and primed can prevent paint from adhering correctly. Without the proper preparation, the paint can peel, fade, or even bubble within even just a few months.

Since the prep is the most important part, hiring professional painters is a wise investment. Pros will take the time to remove dirt, grease, chalking, and old flaking paint before applying the correct primer. This will ensure the paint adheres to the surface and creates a smooth, long-lasting finish that holds up to weather and UV exposure.

Using the Wrong Paint or Materials

Close-up of weathered red paint on a wooden surface, showing cracks and peeling layers, with visible sections of white underneath.

Not all paint is created equal when it comes to storefronts. For example, using interior paint outdoors and low-quality coatings will dramatically reduce durability. Shortcuts like these can often lead to fading and cracking, especially on exterior walls that are exposed to constant sunlight.

Exterior-grade, UV-resistant paints and coatings are essential for signage and storefronts. A professional commercial painting company understands which products perform best on different materials, ensuring the paint lasts and creates a strong visual impact.

Poor Color Choice/Lack of Contrast

A sign that looks good up close doesn’t always work from the street. Low-contrast color combinations (such as gray on white or light blue on beige) can make signs difficult or impossible to read from a distance, which can be an expensive branding mistake.

Using high contrast colors, on the other hand, is a general best practice for accessibility for those with sight impairment; dark lettering on a light background (or vice versa) improves readability and draws attention. Professionals will also consider natural lighting and surrounding architecture when considering color, which will make your storefront stand out for the right reasons.

Cluttered Designs

Trying to say or do too much at once on your signage is another common pitfall. Excessive text, multiple fonts, varying font weights or sizes, and too many colors can overwhelm viewers. If customers can’t quickly understand who you are and what you offer, they will move on. Effective storefront painting focuses on your business name/logo and core message. Clean layouts and legible fonts (especially from a distance) will ensure your sign or storefront communicates clearly and looks professional.

Ignoring Local Codes and Long-Term Maintenance

A street view of historical buildings with colorful facades, including a green building and purple structure, along a road. A gray car is parked nearby, with a red vehicle visible further down the street. Blue sky with clouds overhead.

Failing to check local regulations can result in fines and/or costly corrections. Additionally, many businesses overlook the importance of maintenance, allowing signs to fade or chip over time. Experienced commercial painters stay informed about local signage ordinances and help clients plan for long-term upkeep.

How Legacy Gets It Right

Avoiding these mistakes starts with clear communication and meticulous attention to detail every step of the way. Every Legacy Painting storefront project begins with a thorough consultation to understand your goals. Nothing is rushed or overlooked, from prep work to material selection to final execution.

Our process ensures:

Durable, weather-resistant finishes
Clear designs that attract customers
Consistent branding
A final result that represents your business

Ready to give your storefront a professional, clean look?

When done correctly, a professionally painted storefront acts as a welcoming signal that draws people in. Avoiding common mistakes and working with experienced professionals can save time and money. If you’re considering a storefront refresh or need help correcting mistakes in sign painting, partnering with Legacy Painting will make all the difference. As a local Northern Colorado company, we know the area and the trends, ordinances, and weather. We’ll handle the entire process and leave you with results you’re proud to display.