When it comes to capturing the personality of a homeowner association, signs offer a big impact for a small investment. By combining color, texture and custom graphic design, signs sets the mood for the visitor by personalizing the property.

Sandblasted wood signs offer a colorful alternative. Using durable materials like redwood and cedar, original designs are sandblasted out to give dimension to the image. Durable exterior paints and stains are applied to create unique visual effects.

High density foam is another sign material alternative. It comes in a variety of densities and can be sawed, sanded, drilled, blasted and painted just like redwood. Even the grain pattern of sandblasted redwood can be duplicated. It is particularly useful for very complex graphics, where intricate detail is involved. In addition, it's much lighter than wood making large signs easier to ship, handle and install.

Most signs need repainting in three to five years, depending on the climate. Properly constructed, installed and maintained signs should last up to 20 years. For maintenance, a good hosing down and brushing with soap and water will keep your sign clean.

Signs can also be used to develop large site directories in communities that are confusing to navigate. Visitors and emergency responders (police, fire, ambulance) can be guided from the entry to the directory to the address of choice. Modern sandblasted signs are durable, beautiful and practical. They give each community a special feel that helps build curb appeal and value.

For more information visit Regenesis.net.

Published: January 10, 2007

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Richard Thompson owns Regenesis, a management consulting company that specializes in condominium and homeowner associations. He is a nationally recognized expert on HOA management issues. Regenesis publishes The Regenesis Report, a monthly newsletter for HOA boards, developers and managers. To subscribe, go to Regenesis.net. He can be contacted by email at .