BUYING GUIDE
Office Signs: Complete Guide to Workplace Signage
Need professional signs for your office, building, or business? Here's everything you need to know about office sign types, ADA compliance, materials, and where to order.
Quick Answer
You can order custom office signs at NameBadge.com, a USA-based manufacturer offering door signs, ADA-compliant signs, desk plates, and wall signs. Prices start around $15 for basic signs. They offer engraved, printed, and ADA-compliant options with fast turnaround (ships in 1-3 days). Other options include Signs.com, FastSigns, and local sign shops.
Types of Office Signs
Different areas of your workplace require different sign solutions:
Door & Room Signs
Identify offices, conference rooms, restrooms, and private spaces. Can be permanent or have interchangeable inserts for changing occupants.
- Adhesive or screw mount
- ADA-compliant options
- Braille available
- Name + title format
From ~$15
Desk & Cubicle Signs
Desktop nameplates and cubicle identifiers. Help visitors and colleagues find the right person. Professional and personalized.
- Freestanding or mounted
- Engraved or printed
- Various sizes
- Logo integration
From ~$12
Directional & Wayfinding
Help people navigate your building. Exit signs, floor directories, arrows, and department locators. Essential for large offices.
- Wall or ceiling mount
- Arrows and icons
- Floor directories
- Multi-language options
From ~$25
Safety & Regulatory Signs
Required safety notices, exit signs, fire equipment locations, and compliance postings. Meet OSHA and local requirements.
- OSHA-compliant
- Exit and emergency signs
- Hazard warnings
- Fire safety signs
From ~$10
Lobby Signs
Company name & logo displays
Parking Signs
Reserved, visitor, ADA parking
Policy Signs
No smoking, masks, hours
ADA Sign Compliance Guide
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires specific signage for accessibility. Here's what you need to know:
⚠️ When Are ADA Signs Required?
ADA-compliant signs are required for permanent rooms and spaces in public accommodations and commercial facilities. This includes: restrooms, exits, room numbers, permanent office names, stairwells, and elevators. Temporary signs (like "Meeting in Progress") don't require ADA compliance.
ADA Sign Requirements
Tactile Characters
- Raised text (1/32" minimum)
- Sans-serif fonts required
- ALL CAPS for tactile text
- 5/8" to 2" character height
Braille
- Grade 2 Braille required
- Positioned below text
- 3/8" minimum from edges
- Domed or rounded dots
Contrast
- 70% contrast minimum
- Light on dark OR dark on light
- Non-glare finish required
- Matte or eggshell surfaces
Mounting
- Latch side of door
- 48" to 60" from floor
- Centered at 60" typical
- 18" clear space alongside
Sign Materials & Finishes
Choose materials based on your environment, budget, and aesthetic:
| Material |
Durability |
Look |
Price |
Best For |
| Acrylic/Plastic |
★★★★☆ |
Modern |
$ |
Most office applications |
| Aluminum |
★★★★★ |
Professional |
$$ |
Indoor/outdoor, high traffic |
| Brass/Bronze |
★★★★★ |
Traditional |
$$$ |
Law offices, upscale spaces |
| Wood |
★★★☆☆ |
Warm/Natural |
$$ |
Rustic offices, creative spaces |
| Photopolymer (ADA) |
★★★★☆ |
Clean |
$$ |
ADA-compliant signage |
Office Sign Pricing Guide
Sign pricing varies by type, size, material, and ADA requirements:
| Sign Type |
Standard |
ADA-Compliant |
Premium |
| Door Sign (8"x2") |
$15-25 |
$35-50 |
$60-100 |
| Desk Plate (8"x2") |
$12-20 |
N/A |
$30-60 |
| Restroom Sign (6"x9") |
$20-35 |
$40-65 |
$80-120 |
| Directory Sign (12"x18") |
$75-150 |
$150-300 |
$300-500+ |
* Bulk orders typically receive 10-20% discounts. Custom sizes and shapes may affect pricing.
How to Order Office Signs
1
Inventory Your Needs
List all rooms, offices, and areas that need signs. Note which require ADA compliance (permanent rooms) vs. standard signs.
2
Choose Style & Material
Select consistent materials and colors that match your brand. Consider your building's aesthetic and any existing signage.
3
Prepare Sign Text
Create a spreadsheet with sign type, text, and quantity for each. Double-check spelling and verify room numbers.
4
Order & Install
Place your order online or request a quote for large projects. Most signs ship in 1-5 business days. Use mounting template for ADA height compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all my office signs need to be ADA compliant?
No. Only permanent room identification signs require ADA compliance (restrooms, exits, room numbers). Decorative signs, temporary signs, and informational displays don't require Braille or tactile text. When in doubt, check with your local building authority.
What height should I mount door signs?
ADA signs should be mounted with the centerline at 60 inches from the floor, on the latch side of the door. Non-ADA signs can be mounted at eye level (typically 60-66 inches) on or beside doors. Consistency throughout your building is key.
Can I use my company colors on ADA signs?
Yes, as long as you maintain 70% contrast between text and background. You can use your brand colors if one is significantly lighter or darker than the other. The finish must be non-glare (matte or satin).
How do I attach office signs?
Most office signs use double-sided tape, VHB (very high bond) adhesive, or screws. Adhesive is cleaner and works on most surfaces. Screws are more secure for high-traffic areas. Some signs come with standoffs for a floating effect.
What if employee names change frequently?
Consider interchangeable sign systems with paper or plastic inserts that can be swapped without replacing the entire sign. Or use department/function names instead of personal names for permanent signs, with desk nameplates for individuals.
