Covered Pole Pylons

Covered-pole pylons are freestanding signs built around a structural steel or concrete pole that is enclosed with a decorative outer covering. The cover can improve the overall appearance of the structure while helping protect parts of the supporting pole from direct exposure to the surrounding environment.

The outer cover can be customised in different materials, colours, finishes and shapes to complement the business's branding or the architecture of the property. Covered-pole pylons can support illuminated signs, non-illuminated signage, directional information and, where suitable, digital displays.

Key Benefits of Covered-Pole Pylons

1. Sleek and Professional Appearance

The outer covering can give the supporting structure a cleaner and more finished appearance than an exposed pole. This makes covered-pole pylons suitable for corporate properties, shopping centres, office parks, hotels and other environments where appearance is an important consideration.

2. Protection of the Supporting Structure

The cover can reduce direct exposure of parts of the supporting pole to sunlight, rain and other environmental conditions. The level of protection depends on the materials, construction and finish selected for the project.

3. Customisable Design

Covered-pole pylons can be designed in different shapes, sizes, colours and finishes. The outer casing can be coordinated with company branding, architectural elements or the property's overall signage design.

4. Strong Supporting Structure

The main structural pole can be manufactured from materials such as steel or concrete, depending on the requirements of the pylon. The structural design, foundation and supporting components need to be selected according to the size, height and installation conditions.

5. Concealed Structural Elements

Covering the main pole can hide structural components, cabling or other elements that would otherwise be visible. This can create a cleaner appearance around the sign installation.

6. Supports Different Signage Options

Covered-pole pylons can support a variety of signage formats, including illuminated sign boxes, business logos, raised lettering, directional information, tenant panels and suitable digital displays.

How Do Covered-Pole Pylons Work?

A covered-pole pylon uses a main structural pole to support the sign. A separate outer casing or decorative cover is then installed around the pole.

The structural pole provides the main support, while the outer cover is primarily used for appearance and additional protection of the enclosed structure. The sign itself can be mounted at the top or integrated into the overall pylon design.

The exact construction depends on the size of the sign, required height, materials, foundation and site conditions.

Types of Covered-Pole Pylons

• Steel covered-pole pylons: Use a steel structural pole enclosed by a decorative outer cover.
• Concrete covered-pole pylons: Use a concrete structural element with a suitable external finish or enclosure.
• Illuminated covered-pole pylons: Incorporate lighting into the sign or selected sections of the structure.
• Branded covered-pole pylons: Designed around specific company colours, logos and brand elements.
• Multi-tenant covered-pole pylons: Include separate sections for several businesses or tenants.
• Directional covered-pole pylons: Include arrows, building names, parking information or other wayfinding content.
• Digital covered-pole pylons: Incorporate a suitable digital display where the application and site requirements allow it.

Materials Used for Covered-Pole Pylons

The materials used will depend on the structural and visual requirements of the project. Common materials may include:

• Steel
• Concrete
• Aluminium
• Aluminium composite panels
• Acrylic
• PVC and other suitable sign substrates
• Vinyl graphics
• Powder-coated or painted finishes
• LED lighting components
• Digital display components where applicable
• Mounting hardware
• Concrete foundations

Where Are Covered-Pole Pylons Used?

Covered-pole pylons can be used in locations where a freestanding sign needs both structural support and a finished architectural appearance.

• Corporate offices
• Business parks
• Shopping centres
• Retail developments
• Hotels and resorts
• Office parks
• Service stations
• Car dealerships
• Medical centres
• Industrial properties
• Schools and educational campuses
• Residential developments
• Commercial property entrances
• Roadside businesses
• Mixed-use developments

Covered-Pole Pylons for Corporate Branding

For corporate properties, the pylon can be designed to complement the company's existing architecture and branding. The outer casing can use selected colours, finishes and materials while the sign face displays the business name or logo.

This can create a consistent visual connection between the entrance signage, building signage and other signs throughout the property.

Covered-Pole Pylons for Shopping Centres

Shopping centres and retail properties can use covered-pole pylons to identify the centre, provide tenant information or direct visitors towards specific entrances and facilities.

The structure can be designed with multiple panels where several businesses need to be represented on one sign.

Illuminated Covered-Pole Pylons

Illumination can be incorporated into the sign face or selected elements of a covered-pole pylon. This can help the sign remain visible during evening and low-light conditions.

LED lighting can be used in suitable designs. Electrical supply, power requirements, cable routing and access for maintenance should be considered during the planning stage.

Covered-Pole Pylons and Wayfinding

A covered-pole pylon can form part of a property's wider wayfinding system. In addition to a business name or logo, the sign can display directions to parking areas, buildings, reception areas, entrances or other facilities.

For larger developments, additional directional signs can be installed throughout the property to create a consistent navigation system.

Custom Finishes and Colours

The outer casing provides an opportunity to customise the appearance of the pylon. Depending on the design, finishes may include painted surfaces, powder-coated aluminium, aluminium composite panels or other suitable materials.

Colours can be selected to match corporate branding or complement the surrounding architecture. The choice of finish should also take into account the installation environment and maintenance requirements.

Single-Sided and Double-Sided Options

Covered-pole pylons can be designed to support one or more sign faces.

A single-sided configuration may be suitable when the sign is primarily viewed from one direction, while a double-sided configuration can provide information to people approaching from opposite directions.

The appropriate configuration depends on the property layout, traffic flow, viewing angles and purpose of the signage.

Outdoor Suitability and Weather Considerations

Covered-pole pylons can be designed for outdoor installation, but the materials and finishes should be selected according to the conditions at the site.

Factors such as sunlight, rain, wind exposure, moisture, temperature changes and ground conditions should be considered when selecting the outer cover, structural pole and foundation.

A suitable protective coating or finish can help reduce exposure of the covered components to environmental conditions, but maintenance requirements will still depend on the materials and location.

Design Considerations

Several factors should be considered when planning a covered-pole pylon:

• Overall height and dimensions
• Sign face size
• Single-sided or double-sided design
• Structural pole requirements
• Outer cover material
• Colour and finish
• Company branding
• Viewing distance
• Illumination requirements
• Electrical access
• Wind exposure
• Foundation requirements
• Maintenance access
• Available installation space
• Applicable municipal and property requirements

Installation of Covered-Pole Pylons

Installation normally involves preparing a suitable foundation, positioning the structural pole, securing the sign structure and installing the outer cover.

Where illumination is included, electrical connections and cable routing will also need to be completed.

Large freestanding structures require proper site planning. Underground services, pedestrian areas, vehicle movement, nearby structures, power access and maintenance access should be considered before installation.

Maintenance of Covered-Pole Pylons

Regular cleaning and inspection can help maintain the appearance of the outer cover and sign face. The structure should also be checked for physical damage, loose components or other maintenance requirements.

Illuminated pylons should additionally be inspected for lighting, wiring and electrical components where applicable.

Maintenance requirements depend on the materials, finishes, lighting system and environmental conditions at the installation site.

How Much Do Covered-Pole Pylons Cost?

The cost depends on the size and height of the pylon, structural pole, outer covering, materials, sign face, graphics, illumination, foundation, transport and installation requirements.

A simple non-illuminated covered-pole pylon will have different requirements from a large illuminated or multi-tenant structure. A quotation can be prepared once the dimensions, branding, installation location and specifications are known.

Covered-Pole Pylons in South Africa

Large outdoor signage may be subject to municipal requirements, property rules, zoning conditions, road-related restrictions or other local regulations. Requirements can vary depending on the location and type of signage.

Before installing a covered-pole pylon, the applicable requirements for the property should be checked and any required permissions or approvals should be obtained.

Frequently Asked Questions About Covered-Pole Pylons

What is a covered-pole pylon?

A covered-pole pylon is a freestanding sign supported by a steel or concrete structural pole that is enclosed by a decorative outer cover.

Why cover the pole of a pylon?

The cover can provide a more finished appearance and can help protect parts of the supporting structure from direct exposure to the surrounding environment.

What materials can be used to cover a pylon pole?

Depending on the design, materials may include aluminium, aluminium composite panels, PVC and other suitable exterior sign materials.

Can covered-pole pylons be illuminated?

Yes. Illumination can be incorporated into the sign face or other suitable parts of the pylon.

Can a covered-pole pylon be double-sided?

Yes. The supporting structure can be designed to carry sign faces on one or both sides, depending on the viewing requirements.

Can covered-pole pylons display multiple businesses?

Yes. A multi-tenant design can include separate panels for different businesses, tenants or services.

Are covered-pole pylons suitable for outdoor use?

Yes. They can be designed for outdoor applications, with the structural materials, outer covering and finishes selected according to the installation environment.

Can the outer cover match my company's branding?

Yes. The cover can be customised with different colours, finishes and materials to complement the company's branding or the architecture of the property.

How much does a covered-pole pylon cost?

The cost depends on the size, height, structural materials, outer cover, graphics, illumination, foundation, transport and installation requirements.

Do covered-pole pylons require municipal approval?

Depending on the location and type of sign, municipal, property-owner or other approvals may be required. The applicable requirements should be checked before installation.

Need a Covered-Pole Pylon?

Signs4SA can assist with the design, manufacture and installation of covered-pole pylons for corporate properties, shopping centres, business parks, retail developments, roadside businesses and other commercial applications.