Signature Sign & Image was hired by the University of Niagara Falls Canada (UNF) to manufacture and install a wide range of signage for their new campus. As a new organization in Niagara Falls, Ont., UNF sought to partner with a full-service local sign company with a strong reputation and the capability to manage complex signage projects. With referrals from local businesses and the City of Niagara Falls, UNF chose us due to our long-standing presence in the community. Our ability to handle various tasks, from the complexities of municipal permits to engineering and landlord approvals, was also appreciated.

Our relationship with UNF, and the first project with them, began in January 2024 with the sale of their building signage. Permits for this job were approved in early February, and we began manufacturing shortly afterward. By early March 2024, their signs were ready for installation. They purchased two 1,651 x 3,048-mm (65 x 120-in.) channel letter signs—one on the north side with the university emblem and individual “UNF” letters, and another on the west side reading “University of Niagara Falls Canada.” Both signs are backlit with white LEDs, with acrylic trim cap faces and first-surface vinyl graphics. The trim and returns are painted, and a remote-mounted power supply powers the LED illumination.

These signs were installed about 30.4 m (100 ft) off the ground and required a custom aluminum saddle bracket for mounting, which we fabricated and powder-coated to match the building. The installation also involved renting a 20-ton boom truck, a 38.1-m (125-ft) articulating boom, traffic control, a flag person, and sidewalk closures.

Projects of this scale can bring many challenges. A lot goes into co-ordinating logistics, such as renting cranes, arranging electricians, and ensuring worker safety. However, the most complex challenge was the aluminum saddle bracket. The installers could not see the front of the sign while mounting it from the back. Through careful planning and radio communication, the sign was successfully mounted and aligned.

Our team prepared each sign the day before installation and arrived early the next day to meet the crane crew and traffic controllers on site. Two installers received the signs on the roof, while two others rigged them from the crane. The installers drilled into the concrete, securing the bracket with lag bolts and lead expansion anchors. We returned to connect our wiring to the electrical setup the following day.

Once the building signage was complete, we moved on to interior and exterior projects for UNF. These included wayfinding signs, Accessible Canada Act (ACA)-compliant signage, room identification signs, privacy film for office windows, vinyl wrapping for the digital information kiosk, pole banners, a faux neon sign for the communal space, and most recently, beautiful archway graphics over the road leading to the campus.

We collaborated with UNF’s graphic designer, Ashley Kowal, to ensure consistency with the university’s brand guidelines for each project. Kowal provided the designs while our team handled the minimal pre-press work. Throughout the process, we worked closely with her to maintain the brand’s visual integrity across all signage.

Ashley Kowal said supporting local businesses is a priority at the university. “Signature Signs has consistently impressed us with their ability to tackle any challenge we’ve thrown their way. From impactful exterior signage to innovative, custom-built illuminated centrepieces, they have demonstrated remarkable problem-solving and creative execution. Their commitment to delivering high-quality products and services is commendable and much appreciated,” she added.

Courtney Albanese runs the vinyl production department at Signature Sign & Image.