Questions we get asked a lot
Quotes, artwork, timing, installation and looking after your sign. If your question isn't here, call us on 03 9329 1244.
Quotes and pricing
How do I get a quote?
Send us an enquiry or call 03 9329 1244. Tell us what you need, where it's going and roughly how big, and send photos of the site if you can. We'll reply within 1 to 2 business days with ideas, a quote and a realistic timeline.
How much does a sign cost?
The price depends on the size, materials, quantity, finish and installation, so every job is quoted individually. Our minimum order is $160 + GST. Send us the details and we'll give you a price.
How long is a quote valid?
45 days from the date we issue it.
Is there a minimum order?
We take on everything from small one-off jobs to large projects. Our minimum order is $160 + GST.
Do your prices include GST?
Individual items on our quotes are priced excluding GST. GST is then added at the end, so every quote shows a final total including GST.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
Sometimes. If a deposit applies, it's shown on the quote and needs to be paid before we start. Once work has started, the deposit isn't refundable if the job is cancelled.
When do I pay?
It depends on the job, and your quote will say which applies:
- Collecting from our workshop: in full on or before collection.
- Installed by us, new or infrequent customer: within 7 days of the invoice.
- Installed by us, semi-regular customer: within 14 days of the invoice.
- Account customers: within 30 days of the invoice.
We accept EFT, card or cash.
What isn't included in a quote?
Unless the quote says so, it doesn't include delivery, transport or crating, council permits or engineering, traffic control or third-party site access, power connection, or Dial Before You Dig. We'll tell you up front if your job is likely to need any of these.
Can I cancel my order?
Once we've accepted your order, it can only be cancelled with our written agreement, and you'll need to cover any costs we've already incurred, including materials and labour.
Design and artwork
Can you design my sign?
Yes. We design in-house. If a job calls for a specific or unusual style outside our own skill set, we may bring in one of the independent designers we trust. Design is charged as a flat fee or an hourly rate, depending on the job.
What files do you need from me?
For us to design or set up your sign, send your logo as a vector file (AI, EPS or vector PDF), with fonts supplied or converted to outlines. If you're supplying finished artwork, send a print-ready PDF at the finished size, which goes straight to production without a proof. Photos need to be at least 200 dpi at 100% of the final size. See our artwork specifications for the full list, or send what you have and we'll tell you if it will work.
Can I use an image I found online?
Only if you have the right to use it. Most images online are protected by copyright, and you're responsible for any artwork you supply. Use your own photos or licensed stock, or ask us to create something for you.
Will the colours match my brand?
Give us Pantone references or a physical sample and we'll match them as closely as the material allows. Hex codes and RGB values are colour settings for screens, so the same colour can look different once it's printed or painted. Without a Pantone reference or sample, we'll match colours by eye.
Will I see a proof before you make it?
If we're designing or setting up your artwork, yes. You'll get a proof to approve before anything goes into production. Check it carefully, because errors in a proof you've approved aren't covered by our warranty. Print-ready artwork you supply goes into production as supplied, without a proof.
Can I change the design after approving it?
Yes, but changes after approval are treated as a variation and may add design and production costs.
Can I re-order the same sign later?
Yes, if we still have your artwork on file. We don't always keep the full job details, such as materials and finishes, so let us know what you'd like matched, or send us a photo of the original.
Timing and installation
How long does a sign take?
As a guide:
- Standard vinyl and printed jobs: 1 to 2 weeks.
- Vehicle wraps, murals and hand-painted signs: 2 to 3 weeks.
- Fabricated, 3D and illuminated signs: 4 weeks or more.
These are guides only, so check with us before you lock in a deadline. Rush jobs are available at extra cost where we can fit them in.
Do you install?
Yes. We install across Greater Melbourne, Geelong, the Mornington Peninsula and regional Victoria. See our locations. Out-of-hours installation is available at extra cost.
Do you work outside Victoria?
Yes, depending on the project. Get in touch and we'll let you know.
Do I need a council permit?
It depends on the permit. Permits for the sign itself, such as a council planning permit, are generally the customer's responsibility, but we're happy to offer guidance. Permits needed to install it, such as footpath or road occupancy permits and traffic management plans, we'll arrange for you and include on the quote, unless the job is part of a larger construction project.
Can you remove my old sign?
Yes, we can remove your old sign as part of the job. Disposing of it is an extra cost, depending on the size and quantity.
Vehicle wraps
How should my vehicle arrive?
Reasonably clean, with any damage already fixed. We give every vehicle a standard clean before wrapping, but we don't repair paintwork, and a wrap won't hide chips, dents, scratches or rust. If a vehicle needs more than a standard clean, or the surface isn't ready for a wrap, we'll return it to you to sort out before we start. If your vehicle has old graphics, we can remove them, and that will be in your quote. If we find graphics we weren't told about, removal is charged by the hour.
Will a wrap damage my paint?
On factory paint in good condition, a quality wrap removes cleanly under normal conditions, within the lifespan of the material. Resprayed or repaired paintwork is a risk, because the film can lift the paint when it comes off, and it isn't covered by our warranty.
Can I wrap a leased vehicle?
Check with your leasing company first. Whether a leased vehicle can be wrapped, and how it needs to be returned, is up to them.
How do I look after a wrap?
Hand wash with mild detergent and a soft cloth. Avoid automatic brush car washes, and keep pressure washers away from the edges. Let us know early about any lifting edges.
Warranty
What warranty do you give?
It depends on the product. Workmanship and installation are covered for 12 months, and printed vinyl graphics and vehicle wraps for 3 years. See our warranty page for every category. Our warranty is in addition to your rights under the Australian Consumer Law.
How long will my sign last?
It depends on the location, the conditions it's exposed to and the type of sign. A sign out of the weather will generally outlast one facing full sun. We'll talk you through what to expect for your job, and our warranty page sets out what's covered.
How do I make a warranty claim?
Email info@alphalewissigns.com.au with photos of the fault, the whole sign and its surroundings. We'll review the photos and arrange an inspection if needed.
Repairs and other sign companies
Can you repair or maintain an existing sign?
Yes, including signs we didn't make, but it depends on the sign and the job. Send us photos and details and we'll let you know what's possible.
Do you work with other sign and print companies?
Yes. We regularly carry out work for other signage companies and help them with their jobs. Get in touch to talk about what you need.
Visiting us
Can I visit the workshop?
Yes, by appointment. Come in to talk through a quote, see samples, finishes and materials up close, or take a look at our collection of vintage, rare and collectable signs, one of the best in Australia.
We don't allow visits to check on a job while it's in production. If you'd like to see colours, materials or finishes before or during your job, we can provide samples, and you're welcome to call or email for an update on where things are at.
