Common Mistakes Made When Installing U-Channel Sign Posts

Common Mistakes Made When Installing U-Channel Sign Posts

Posted by Jeffrey Dornbos on 1st Nov 2016

Common Mistakes Made When Installing U-Channel Sign Posts

Common Mistakes Made When Installing U-Channel Sign Posts

If you’ve ever driven into a parking lot and seen street signs that are bent, or installed incorrectly, it’s likely due to a variety of reasons. U-channel sign posts are not often installed correctly, and we thought we would outline a few of the more common mistakes that we see when u-channel sign posts are installed so that you would have a better idea of how to install a sign post.

Using an Incorrectly Sized U-Channel Post

Many times companies will try to cut corners when it comes to the size of the  u-channel post that they purchase. While many people use these smaller u-channel posts for signs, they’re really intended to only hold lighter reflective delineators. If you’re installing parking signs, it’s best to use at least a 2 lb. u-channel post, which will be a much more rugged and long lasting option. Talking with a sign company about your exact needs can be a lifesaver when it comes to choosing materials such as the thickness of a u-channel sign post.

Not Installing Sign Post Deep Enough into the Ground

Another common mistake novice sign installers will make is to not dig down deep enough when installing their sign posts. This can lead to a flimsy sign post that is quick to bend if put under any type of pressure. While many sign posts are only about 24 inches deep, we suggest that you dig down at least 36 inches depending on where you live. The frost line of your area plays a key role into how deep you should dig, and as a general rule of thumb, we suggest that you dig at least 3-4 inches below your areas frost line.

Incorrectly Affixing the Sign to the U-Channel Sign Post

In addition, another common mistake has little to do with the sign post, and more to do with the sign itself. This common problem actually has to do with how the sign is affixed to the u-channel sign post. If you’re looking at a u-channel post from above, you should install the sign on the top of the ‘U’ shape to ensure stability and prevent added movement against the ‘U’ shape. Many novice sign installers will attach the sign to the bottom of the ‘U’ shape, which can quickly cause problems.

High Quality U-Channel Sign Post Installation Starts with High Quality Materials

While you can use the tips above to ensure your u-channel sign posts are installed correctly, if you’re using inferior materials, no set of tips from our sign company will ensure your sign posts will stand the test of time. At Dornbos Sign & Safety, Inc., we’ve been providing high quality sign posts and sign hardware to customers around the country for decades. We would be happy to discuss your needs and determine the type of sign posts and hardware you need to ensure we know how to install your sign post, and will stand up to the rigors of daily use. For more information about our products, feel free to reach out to our team today by phone at 800-922-0029 or fill out our free quote form and we’ll follow up with you shortly.