Signage & Graphics Glossary

Understanding signage terms helps you make better decisions. Here's a breakdown of common terms you may see when working with Wallsticker:

Channel Letters
3D individual letters used for exterior building signage, often illuminated.

Vinyl Wall Decal
Adhesive-backed vinyl cut to shape, ideal for interior or promotional graphics.

Vinyl Wall Mural
Full-coverage vinyl wrap applied to walls, often used for branding or artwork.

Perforated Window Film
One-way view vinyl with micro holes—lets those inside see out, while showing full-color graphics from the outside.

ADA Signage
Signs that comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements, including raised text and Braille.

Coming Soon Window Wraps
Temporary full-coverage graphics used during construction to promote upcoming store openings.

Cut Vinyl Lettering
Pre-cut text and logos made from solid-color adhesive vinyl, used for windows and doors.

Fabrication
The process of manufacturing physical signage from materials like vinyl, acrylic, aluminum, and more.

Installation
The final step—our certified crews install your graphics or signage at your site.

Wayfinding Signage
Directional signage used to guide visitors through a building or space.

Substrate
The base material onto which graphics are printed or applied. Common substrates include aluminum, acrylic, PVC, foam board, and wall vinyl. Choice of substrate affects durability, appearance, and cost.

Wayfinding System
A coordinated set of directional signs that help visitors navigate complex spaces like hospitals, campuses, and multi-tenant buildings.

Exterior Signage
Weather-resistant signage mounted outdoors — includes building-mounted signs, channel letters, monument signs, blade signs, and window graphics.

Interior Signage
Signage installed inside a space — includes ADA signs, murals, directional signage, floor graphics, and branding elements.

Permitting
The process of securing city or municipal approval for signage installation. Wallsticker offers permit drawings and submissions for clients in regulated cities, including NYC and Los Angeles.

Coming Soon Graphics
Temporary full-window vinyl wraps used by retailers during construction to build buzz and inform the public of upcoming openings.

Site Survey
A visit by our expert team to measure, photograph, and inspect surfaces prior to design and fabrication. Ensures signage fits and adheres properly.

Sign Package
A comprehensive set of signage types delivered as one coordinated project — typically includes exterior signs, ADA-compliant wayfinding, murals, and branded window graphics.

Union Installation
Signage installation performed by union labor crews when required by local codes, projects, or clients. Wallsticker provides union-compliant services where applicable.

High-Tack Vinyl
A type of adhesive vinyl with stronger bonding properties, used for difficult surfaces like rough walls, textured paint, or concrete.

Reflective Vinyl
Specialty film that reflects light, used in safety signage, vehicle graphics, and high-visibility branding.

Decal vs. Mural
A decal is a cut or printed shape applied to a small area; a mural is typically full-coverage and covers an entire wall, window, or surface.

Design Proof
A mock-up or layout of the sign before printing, sent to the client for review and approval.

Fleet Graphics
Vinyl wraps or decals applied to commercial vehicles. Fleet wraps increase brand visibility while on the road and are one of Wallsticker’s nationwide specialties.

Changeable Graphics
Vinyl graphics designed for seasonal or frequent updates, often printed on removable or repositionable material.

At Wallsticker, we believe an informed client is an empowered partner. That’s why we created this signage glossary — to define industry terms and help you confidently navigate your project from start to finish.

Whether you're managing a construction site, opening a flagship retail location, or rolling out signage across a multi-property portfolio, our expert team is here to guide, fabricate, and install with precision. Ready to bring your brand to life? Let’s make your next signage project seamless and successful — coast to coast.

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