Sign Maintenance Methods
Visual Inspection Method
The Visual Inspection Method requires that you have an inspector aged at least 60 years old and that you have an SUV or pick-up truck. The inspection is simple in that the inspector simply rates each sign while driving by them at highway speeds at night. It helps to have a driver so the inspector can concentrate on rating the signs. The driver can be any age meeting licensing requirements. Open a PDF document describing the Visual Inspection Method.
Sign Age Method
There are several practices to track sign age. For example:
- a computer inventory
- a sticker on the back of the sign
- a photo log (Polaroid or digital)
- a small plaque underneath the sign with the installation date
Open a PDF document describing the Sign Age Management Method.
Blanket Replacement Method
The Blanket Replacement Procedure is based on wholesale replacement of signs in a specific area, along a specific corridor, or by sign types (regulatory, warning, or guide sign). The wholesale replacement period would be based on the expected sign life, so you will need to know or estimate expected sign life in your area. Open a PDF document describing the Blanket Replacement Management Method.
Measurement Method
This method simply requires the purchase or rental of a measurement device called a retro-reflectometer. The procedure requires you to measure all of your signs on a specific interval, such as once every year, or every other year. Open a PDF document describing the Measurement Method.