How to maintain your traffic signs
Traffic signs, whether permanent or temporary, are designed to withstand the stress of the elements and other environmental hazards. This makes them strong, durable, and generally long-lasting devices. However, even these products require a certain level of maintenance over the years to function effectively. In fact, the constellation in your community may need it more than you think. Here's how to maintain your traffic signs to ensure they are always clearly visible to drivers.
Periodic inspection
First, make sure you regularly check local signs for damage. From vandalism to extreme weather, there are many things that can degrade their condition and reduce their efficiency. Therefore, taking the time to review them is critical to assessing any issues and ensuring an appropriate response.
clean them
If a traffic sign looks dirty, clean it right away. A thick layer of dirt and grime blocks the reflective material below. This reduces the ability of the sign to reflect light to drivers and reduces the likelihood that they will see it in time. During this process, use a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft-bristle brush to remove any dirt from the surface of the sign. Make sure you don't push too hard, as this will also damage the film side.
Reduce invasive vegetation
It is also important to cut off any branches or leaves growing around the sign. They block light and reduce the visibility of signs. In fact, if the situation gets bad enough, the driver might not even be able to tell that there are signs there. Always have a hedge cutter on hand to remove any nebulous plant life.
Tighten anti-theft fasteners
Checking the security of anti-theft fasteners is another critical part of maintaining traffic signs. Unfortunately, it is relatively common for street signs to be stolen as part of a hoax or blatant vandalism. Anti-theft fasteners are designed to help prevent this by protecting the sign's bolt from being cut or manipulated in any way. Therefore, always tighten these fasteners during inspections to ensure they stay in place.
If you see signs in your community that need to be upgraded, call the Traffic Safety District. Our specialized LED traffic signs are just as damage resistant as standard signs, but have the added benefit of reliable solar LED lighting and tamper resistance because the wiring is built into the sign and there are no exposed wires or switches. They allow you to properly illuminate critical traffic areas and ensure drivers can see them regardless of visibility conditions.