Lykins – Signtek

Bild By Coach O Front Lit Channel Letters

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 13:45:22 GMT

Illuminating Excellence: "Bild By Coach O" Front Lit Channel Letters

When it comes to making a bold statement, the Coach O Channel Letter Sign does not disappoint. This remarkable signage, recently installed in the heart of our community, has become an iconic symbol of excellence. In this blog post, we will explore the captivating design, craftsmanship, and significance behind the Coach O Channel Letter Sign.

As you walk or drive past, the Coach O Channel Letter Sign instantly catches your attention. Standing tall and proud, it illuminates the surrounding area with its vibrant presence. The carefully crafted channel letters spell out "Bild by Coach O" in a bold and eye-catching design, creating a beacon of recognition that draws both fans and passersby. It is front lit channel letters mounted to a raceway.

The Coach O Channel Letter Sign is a testament to impeccable craftsmanship. Every detail, from the precise bending of the letters to the flawless integration of LED lighting, showcases the dedication and skill of the artisans behind its creation. The use of high-quality materials ensures the sign's durability, allowing it to withstand the test of time and weather elements.

As daylight fades, the Coach O Channel Letter Sign takes on a whole new dimension. The carefully positioned LED lighting illuminates the sign from within, casting a warm glow that stands out against the night sky. The captivating illumination not only adds to the sign's visual appeal but also enhances its visibility, making it a landmark even in the darkest hours.

The Coach O Channel Letter Sign is a shining example of how design, craftsmanship, and symbolism can merge to create an iconic landmark. Its impressive presence instills a sense of pride and unity within the community. As the sign continues to illuminate the night and represent the Bild Business well, it grabs peoples attention while creating a welcoming feeling to make the company as successful as possible.

Skysail Community Blog

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 14:02:59 GMT

Lykins Signtek is taking part in an impressive new project

The community Skysail is in the process of being built with the view of 240 acres (about the total floor space of the Pentagon) of beautiful lakes along with homes ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 square feet. Lykins Signtek is helping by providing this new community with the main entrance monument wall, many street signs, along with the Skysail logo on the communities' towers. We are also in the process of installing community mailboxes for the future residence of this modern community.

Restaurant and Bar Signage Spending

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 15:13:59 GMT

How much does an average casual, sit-down restaurant/bar spend on signage, assuming they are starting from a new empty building? More importantly, where can I find this information for all industries?

Internet research revealed a few sources with ranges of costs associated with opening both a restaurant and a bar.

According to the most recent post (from March 30) on webstaurantstore.com , a foodservice supply website, “Starting a restaurant can cost anywhere from $180,000 to $800,000, with various factors influencing the final bill. The average cost of opening a restaurant is $275,000 or $3,046 per cover for a leased space, according to a recent survey.” That refers to a survey of 350 restaurant owners referenced on restaurantowner.com , in which the total startup costs (for low, medium and upper-level markets, respectively) are $175,500, $375,500 and $750,500. The construction-cost portions of each are $70,000, $200,000 and $472,500.

Myriad costs are associated with opening a restaurant, but sage.com (accounting software) did include specific amounts for signage and advertising (combined): “… you’ll want to make a splash with your grand opening. To make it really count, you’re looking at about $20,000 to $30,000 up front.” Not bad, depending on how much of that is for the signage and how much is for advertising.

Bar costs can range anywhere between $100,000 and $850,000, according to investopedia.com . According to sage.com : “While costs can vary quite a bit, the average cost to open a pub from the ground up is about $480,000 — although costs can range from $110,000 on the low end to $850,000 on the high end … every bar needs a sign. You’ll spend about $1,000 on average.”

You should look at your signs as being 90% of your yearly advertising budget since this is likely to draw in more patrons than any other method. The higher end the restaurant the higher end the sign needs to be should go without saying. You also need to compete with your restaurant neighbors so look to their signs as well as to what type you should display.

Bayshore Redevelopment

brandon@lykins-signtek.com (Brandon Mays) — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 19:11:17 GMT

Helping start a new image for Bayshore Drive.

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The Reef at Winkler

Mon, 03 May 2021 20:05:04 GMT

The Community of the Future

We have recently completed channel letters for the monument wall at The Reef at Winkler. This was a really fun project as this community is the first to ever partner with Amazon. This partnership allows them to have an Echo Dot in every residence, as well as, Yale smart locks, recessed smart lights, and smart thermostats which all can be controlled from your phone. If you head to the gym, you can take advantage of interactive workouts powered by WellBeats. The Reef at Winkler really is the community of the future and we may just be a little jealous of the residents.

Murdo Smith Adaptive Sailing Center

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 15:21:00 GMT

We are happy be a part of the renaming of the Adaptive Sailing Center at Sugden Park, this program teaches those with special needs the basis of sailing, as well as assists with teaching them life and socialization skills. The center will be renamed after a long-time employee of the Parks and Recreation Division and former Parks and Recreation Advisory Board member, Murdo Smith. He served 35 years in the Parks and Recreation Division. After his retirement he began volunteering for the adaptive sailing program. He was a calm presence on the dock, and everyone enjoyed working with him. After his passing the participants were deeply affected and it was proposed that they renamed the sailing center, Murdo Smith Adaptive Sailing Center.

The renaming ceremony will take place on Saturday, March 6 at Sugden Park.

Michael Saunders & Company

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 18:40:00 GMT

Here at Lykins Signtek, our Nokomis branch has been doing quite a bit of work with Michael Saunders & Company. Michael Saunders is a well-known name and the top producing real estate company in the Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte tri-county region. Since 1976 Michael Saunders has been growing her business, reaching $3.49 billion in volume for 2020.

It has been a pleasure to work with Michael Saunders, especially since they are going through a brand remodel. The new signage for Michael Saunders & Company incorporates their aqua dynamic color strip — part of the new company branding, entitled Nowhere but here . This change highlights their ability to constantly grow, just as the Sarasota area does. I recommend taking a look at their website to see the scope of their services.

This branding change will be tough to miss so I am sure that this signage will stand out as you drive around town. It has been a pleasure to work with the Michael Saunders team and we cannot wait to see what the future has in store.

Production Administrative Assistant (aka Expeditor)

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Lykins-Signtek is a busy sign shop processing multiple orders a day and we urgently need someone to provide support and assistance with our job entry and tracking systems. This position also answers inbound calls and shares in the house sales account for additional commissions. The successful candidate combines quick learning, a high degree of attention to detail, great administrative and organizational skills, and a strong Microsoft office understanding with a collaborative approach and effective verbal and written communication skills. You must be computer literate and fluent in English. Prior experience in a production environment and familiarity with technical terms and methods, job tracking systems (MRP/ERP), estimating or cost accounting is highly desirable. Sign industry experience is not required but a definite plus, relevant experience in a manufacturing or construction/trades business is helpful.

We are a Drug Free workplace. Screening is required upon hiring. We offer competitive wages and a package of benefits including health insurance, vacation, paid time off, a retirement plan with company match, and more. Most of all, we offer steady, year-round full time employment in a strong, well-established 20-year old Naples company with a great atmosphere!

Habitat for Humanity

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 18:55:00 GMT

Lately, we have been doing a lot of work with Habitat for Humanity, this is a global nonprofit that works in local communities building homes and helping those in need. We have working with them to install CBU’s for their neighborhoods, as well as signage for their Restore. Habitat Restores is a secondhand store that sells home improvement items at a fraction of retail price. Doing work with this company is something that everyone in the company looks forward to as, not only do we get to do the work that we love but we know we are helping people in the process.

Gulf Harbor Marina Refurbishment

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 15:43:00 GMT

Gulf Harbor Marina is a full-service marina located near Nokomis Beach. We were given the opportunity to refurbish their existing HDU sign that has been in use for at least 18 years! All the sign needed was some minor repairs and a fresh coat of paint including 23k Gold Leaf and it is looking new again. Our team did a great job making this sign look how it did 18 years ago!

Bucket Truck Operator / Electrical Sign Installer

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 08:00:00 GMT

We have an immediate need for an electrical sign installer / bucket truck operator (under 26000 lbs GVW / under 2000 lbs lift / 30-50 ft boom). This position involves the installation and service of electrical, wall and pylon signs and flagpoles. Must have 3+ years of experience, current operator and OSHA certifications a plus. No CDL required. Methodical and organized; proven ability to assess installation conditions; set up work zone and position truck properly; safe operating and lifting practices, electrical installations. Follows all work order instructions including check in/out, sign-off, pictures, documentation. Keeps the truck maintained and in full working order. If you are a skilled professional, contact us today!

Must be fluent in English. Clean driving record. We do a background check.

Lykins-Signtek is a Drug Free workplace. Screening is required upon hiring. You must have dependable attendance records and references.

We offer competitive wages and a package of benefits including health insurance, vacation, paid time off, a retirement plan, and more. Most of all, we offer steady, year-round full time employment in a strong, well-established 20-year old Naples company with a great atmosphere! Call Chris at 239-594-8494 or stop by today for an immediate response.

5th Avenue South

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 21:11:00 GMT

5th Avenue South has been the premier spot in Naples for many years and over this time we have established a relationship with the businesses that call this strip home. We have done everything from directional signage to large wall signs. These signs have stood the test of time in Florida’s heat and with them being so close to the Gulf, the ocean breeze. Next time you are walking down 5th Ave look up and around and you will see works from Lykins-Signtek everywhere you look.

New CBU Regulations

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 19:24:00 GMT

In July, there was a change to the Postal Operations Manual that may affect you. In the past you needed 1 parcel locker for every 10 mail compartments, now you need a parcel locker for every 5. This does not apply to current CBU’s but will be required for all new installs or remodels. You can read the new regulation here:

632.622 Location and Arrangement

Regulations for the location and arrangement of receptacles are subject to Postal Service approval as follows:

All new or remodeled apartment houses can only install USPS-approved 4C equipment. When installing this equipment, a requirement is to have at least one parcel locker for every five customer mail compartments. For those buildings with a minimum of five mail compartments, there must be at least one parcel locker installed.
Receptacles and parcel lockers in apartment houses should be located reasonably close to the entrance in vestibules, halls, or lobbies. The carriers must be able to serve the boxes without interference from swinging or open doors. The area must be adequately lighted to afford the best protection to the mail and to let carriers read addresses on mail and names on boxes without difficulty.

Moorings Park WWII Memorial

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 16:19:00 GMT

This past week we installed 4 donor plaques for Moorings Park as part of their World War II Memorial. This memorial is a thoughtful tribute to those lost in WWII. The area boasts a garden, a display showcasing each military branch and other sentiments. The WWII Memorial is just across from the clubhouse at the main location.

Our New UV LED Printer!

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 14:07:00 GMT

Our shop has welcomed a new tool this week, the Direct Color Systems 1800 Braille & Graphics UV LED Printer. Our team has spent this week in training as they are getting more proficient with it. This printer works by distributing ink onto a substrate with UV lights following behind it to immediately cure the ink. This creates a very sharp print and the machine repeatedly goes through this process until it reaches your desired thickness. This is why it is perfect for ADA signage & braille. This also allows for different textures to be printed onto a substrate. For example, we can add a canvas texture that feels and looks like an image was painted on canvas, we can do this to make it look like a painting with brush strokes as well. The pictures below show a few examples of what we have been experimenting with.

Signs & More at Treviso Bay

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 18:54:00 GMT

Lykins-Signtek does much more than signage for Treviso Bay. We took care of flagpoles, traffic signs, community monument signs, and most recently, repainting streetlights. Treviso Bay is a prime example of the scope of the abilities that we can handle and our crew hopes to further our relationship as the community continues to grow. A look at the pictures included will show our craftmanship in action.

Our Relationship with Seagate Development Group

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 14:09:00 GMT

Over the years, we have done many projects with Seagate Development Group. Our salesman, Jim Geiger, has been working with them on development signs and mailboxes for their many communities and buildings. One of the most recent being for Conditioned Air’s new warehouse. We were even able to refurbish one of the signs from their previous warehouse to look brand new on this building and our company is working on a 30’ flagpole, as well.

This business relationship has allowed for us to take on Seagate Development Groups brand new Corporate Headquarters. We completed the channel letters on the building, as well as the monument sign and flag pole out front. We look forward to working with this company for many years to come and appreciate the business. So, from everyone at Lykins-Signtek, we say thank you!

Check Your Pool Rules!

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 14:25:00 GMT

Everyone is familiar with the signs that must be positioned around a public pool to alert swimmers of the potential dangers, but are you sure that your community’s pool has all their bases covered? In Florida there are 8 regulations you must have plus the certain guidelines that are specific to your pool.

A sign with the following pool rules and regulations (printed in at least 1 inch letters):

-No food or beverages in pool or on pool deck
-No glass or animals in the pool area
-Bathing load: ___ persons
-Pool hours: __ a.m. to __ p.m.
-Shower before entering
-Do not swallow the pool water, it is recirculated
-Do not use pool if you are ill with diarrhea
-“NO DIVING” in 4 inch letters (for pools larger than 200 square feet).

A sign with site-specific safety guidelines. These guidelines depend on the hazards unique to each pool. If any of these dangers exist, pool user must be appropriately notified.

– NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY
-Danger: Steep slope
– Designated diving areas
– Deep water
-Underwater obstruction
– Dangerous wildlife

Restroom Directions. If restrooms are not visible from the pool deck, directions must be posted in at least 1 inch letters and positioned so that they can be read from any point on pool deck.

Pools that are longer than 300 feet may also be required to obtain additional signage after consulting with the Florida Department of Health. We reiterate that pool owners should corroborate the accuracy of these guidelines by checking relevant state, county, and local statutes.

Marco Island Historical Museum monument sign

Tue, 05 May 2020 14:36:00 GMT

Last week we installed the new monument sign for the Marco Island Historical Museum. The original (vintage!) sign had been destroyed in a car accident over a year ago.

The museum is one of five Collier County historical museums and this sign exhibits the new style that the County wants to adopt for all.

We recommend visiting the museum if you have an opportunity. The exhibits are of high quality and provide a wealth of information about the natural and human history of the area – and do not miss the “world-famous” Marco Cat!

Collier Museums

Marco Island Historical Museum

Signs to support your COVID-19 policies

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 21:33:00 GMT

Just like you, we learn and adapt our business to the latest COVID-19 news and requirements on a daily basis. While making some temporary signage for our own needs, we realized many other companies, communities, institutions etc may also need better options than a piece of paper to explain changes and restrictions to their customers, employees or residents. We’re of course all hopeful that we will get past this pandemic sooner rather than later but there’s now little doubt that we’re in this for several more weeks if not months.

Did you switch to take-out orders? Or now do curbside delivery only? Are you restricting access or have you changed access routes? Do you need to guide or redirect customers? Show safe distances? We have many affordable options for small roadside or yard signs, banners, portable A-frame signs, or vinyl window signs that provide effective, weather-resistant, and professional signage for the duration of these special measures and help you get your message across. Our team will help you pick the best solution for your needs and we have most materials in stock for a fast turnaround. Call us at 239-594-8494 (Naples) or 941-484-9169 (Nokomis).

Stay Safe!

Lykins-Signtek acquires SignMasters in Nokomis, FL

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 22:02:00 GMT

Under its new ownership, our company is seeking to expand its geographical reach and strengthen its presence in Charlotte, Sarasota, and Manatee counties. We are pleased to announce the acquisition of SignMasters of Nokomis, FL. SignMasters, also doing business as Artisan Signs, has provided signage to the local community in Nokomis, Venice, Siesta Key and Sarasota County for over 30 years. Following this acquisition, Lykins-Signtek will greatly enhance the product offerings of SignMasters with its own capabilities, including electrical signs, pylon signs, street signs, residential and commercial mailboxes, and much more, while clients will continue to enjoy easy, local access to sales, design, and existing production resources.

SignMasters’ former owner, Jon Priestap, will stay on for the near term to help ensure a smooth transition. We are also excited that Dan Godlewski, a Nokomis resident. has agreed to join us in a Sales and Business Development role. Dan can be reached at dan@lykins-signtek.com . We welcome the team at SignMasters into our company and look forward to the opportunity to meet its clients.

New ownership brings new opportunities for Lykins-Signtek!

Sun, 20 Oct 2019 22:10:00 GMT

As of October 10, 2019, our founders have handed over the keys to Project Combo, a company on a mission. Project Combo (which will continue to operate the business under the Lykins-Signtek name) recognized the technical capabilities, quality reputation, and strong relationships built over the years by our founders Pete Lykins and Steve Stephenson and their entire team, and intends to build on those to set the company on a growth path into new geographical areas and product lines. Pete Lykins stays on as Vice-President, in his familiar role of technical mastermind, while Steve Stephenson will enjoy stepping back into well-deserved – and undoubtedly very active – retirement. We will miss you and wish you the best, Steve!

With new ownership come computer hardware and software updates, cloud-based invoicing, some extra hires – and a new logo! We look forward to the opportunities ahead.

Need service for your sign? Ask Russ!

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 20:33:00 GMT

Lykins-Signtek has always serviced signs of its own manufacture, but also local signs for national brands or signs made by others. We repair, repaint, refurbish, modify, remove and move signs; replace tenant panels, lettering and graphics, fix lighting problems or upgrade to LED lighting, reface channel letters and much more.

While our Sales staff have handled service requests in the past – and will happily continue to do so for their customers – we have recently appointed Russ Hopkins as Service Advisor with the primary responsibility to take care of your service needs. Russ has extensive field installation and service experience with our company, including electrical, painting, and boom truck work. He will come on site for a (free) evaluation, provide a quote, and manage your service project, coordinating with our Production and Installation teams as needed so you have a single point of contact throughout the project. Call Russ at 239-594-8494 (office) or 239-273-4517 (mobile).

Freedom Eagles: retiring American Flags with dignity and purpose

Thu, 09 May 2019 14:57:00 GMT

Lykins-Signtek sells dozens of flagpoles every year, projects we truly enjoy – especially when we raise the American Flag for the first time upon installation. Of course flags do not last forever, so when we were contacted by the Freedom Eagles, an organization that collects American Flags for proper retirement and disposal, it was an easy decision to support them with some of our resources. We’ll let Mr. R. Butcher of the Freedom Eagles explain their initiative better than we can:

Once again, “Thank You” and the staff for all you have done for the Freedom Eagles.

It is nice to know that there are folks who believe in our cause. We now retire 4/5000 Flags a year and most of them are collected with people using our Flag Boxes, located throughout our community. Of these:

1. Approx. 1000 of these are given to some of the local funeral homes to be retired with a Veteran when they are cremated. No greater way to retire the American Flag than to be draped over a Veteran (who was willing to die for the Flag) at the time of cremation.

2. We furnish Flags to be retired on Flag Day at Freedom Park.

3. The rest of them are taken to the airport where they are retired in a proper and respectful manner.

Your kindness and thoughtfulness are greatly appreciated.

Our sincere thanks to the Freedom Eagles for this service!

Another Pulte “Built to Honor” home completed for a wounded veteran and his family

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 21:11:00 GMT

Since 2013, PulteGroup and their many suppliers, contractors, and partners have built over 50 homes nationwide for veterans wounded in combat through their “Built to Honor” initiative. Every year, we are proud to support this program locally with signage. This year, US Army Sergeant Howard Appleby of Cape Coral, a veteran with two tours in Iraq, was handed over the keys to a new, mortgage-free home in Babcock Ranch. More info is available here . Our most sincere thank you and congratulations to Sergeant Appleby and his family!

Maybe our largest signs to date?

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 23:58:00 GMT

Lykins-Signtek has worked with Miromar Development Corporation on various types of signage for many years. A long-delayed plan to install a directory sign at the Miromar Design Center on Corkscrew Road finally became reality and we set out to build the massive 25 ft x 20 ft wall. Our electrical sign workshop is fairly spacious but it was an interesting challenge to fabricate, paint and assemble the 5 large pieces (base, body, top, and 2 columns) that make up this sign.

Soon thereafter, we completed a 25 ft long illuminated cabinet sign for Avow Hospice ‘s resale shop – not nearly as large as the Miromar sign, but the narrow nature of this cabinet made it look very very long indeed!

Finally, our fabricators enjoyed creating a 22-ft tall wall-mounted double-sided illuminated cabinet sign for the new Marco Island Fire Station (a DeAngelis Diamond Construction project) – which was installed next to the 25-ft wall-mounted flagpole that we also provided.

We love projects of all sizes so don’t hesitate to come to us with your oversize ideas!

Sometimes Simplicity is Beautiful

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 23:13:00 GMT

Our team creates hundreds of signs of all shapes and size, of many colors and materials. Yet when an apparently simple sign such as this one for the Spa at the Naples Grande Hotel sat in our photo area a few days ago, everyone commented on how beautiful it is. We built this 3 ft x 4 ft sign out of 1.5″ cedar with 1/4″ acrylic letters painted brilliant metallic gold (the gold color does not show well on the picture). It has an “Old School Craftsmanship” quality to it that our employees immediately appreciate. We take pride in our product and love what we do!

Clients can be fun too

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 21:22:00 GMT

We’re completing a project for a loyal client who is apparently pleased with their sales representative’s Jim Geiger efforts and surprised him with this little jpg. A pretty good representation of Jim although he usually wears a proper shirt, at least in the office!

A perfect assignment for an important day

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 21:41:00 GMT

Pure coincidence or….? One of our installation teams installed a flagpole at South Seas Club in Marco Island and proudly raised Old Glory on the fateful date of 9/11.

We will never forget. Thank You.

Our condolences and a heartfelt thanks to the Pulte family and company

Mon, 19 Mar 2018 15:40:00 GMT

Last week we learned that Mr. William (Bill) Pulte, founder of the PulteGroup home building company, passed away at the age of 85. We never had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Pulte but we have worked closely with his company for many years now. Lykins-Signtek was founded in 1999 and owes a substantial part of its early growth to Centex which merged with Pulte in 2008 to form the nation’s largest homebuilder at the time. Pulte has continued to rely on us to provide mailboxes and all types of signage in its many Southwest Florida developments and we value the relationship very highly. We extend our most sincere condolences and deep gratitude to the Pulte family and employees.

Sign Installers (apply anytime)

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 17:17:00 GMT

We have an immediate need for full-time field installers. You will be removing and installing commercial signs, street and traffic signs, mailboxes, and more. This position requires mostly outdoor and some indoor installation work. Previous experience in a construction-related trade is recommended; experience installing signs is helpful but not required. You must be skilled in measuring and leveling and in the proper use of hand and power tools. You must also be physically capable of working outdoors for extended periods, including lifting and carrying large objects, digging holes, pouring concrete, and work on ladders. You will be driving a company pick-up truck so you MUST have a current FL driver’s license and a CLEAN driving record. This position also requires interacting with customers so you MUST be fluent in English and able to communicate in a professional manner.

We are a Drug Free workplace. Screening is required upon hiring. You must have dependable attendance records and references. We offer competitive wages and a package of benefits including health insurance, vacation, paid time off, a retirement plan, and more. Most of all, we offer steady, year-round full time employment in a strong, well-established 20-year old Naples company with a great atmosphere! Call Chris at 239-594-8494 or stop by today for an immediate response.

Lykins-Signtek pursues growth in Charlotte County

Tue, 27 Feb 2018 15:34:00 GMT

Collier and Lee County have long been our main stomping ground, and over the last few years we have supported the expansion of our loyal customers into new developments in Sarasota and Manatee County. Charlotte County is now experiencing rapid change as well and we believe Lykins-Signtek is the perfect partner for county and municipal services, developers and businesses in Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, Babcock Ranch and surrounding areas. We are excited and very pleased to announce we have appointed an independent sales representative for Charlotte County, Wes DeMott. Wes is based in Punta Gorda and will be dedicated full-time to develop and assist Lykins-Signtek customers in this area. He brings many years of experience in construction and aluminum materials as well as first-class business development and customer service skills. We believe he will prove to be an invaluable local resource for our clients. Wes can be reached at wes@lykins-signtek.com or 239-595-6154.

Peace, Love, and Signs

Fri, 16 Feb 2018 16:22:00 GMT

We realize the last few posts in our Blog discussed various issues resulting from Hurricane Irma, so it is high time for something more uplifting. This is the week of Valentine’s Day and we got to make a few signs that warm our hearts. A Happy Valentine to everyone!

An unhappy experience for all of us, despite the added business

Fri, 08 Dec 2017 21:19:00 GMT

Dear Customer, we want to apologize. We have been flooded with requests to repair street and traffic signs, mailboxes, and business signs damaged by Hurricane Irma. Since September our team has been working long hours including Saturdays, to reset or retrieve, evaluate and quote, fabricate and weld, prep and paint, and reinstall signs throughout Southwest Florida – in addition to handling “normal” sign orders. Our second yard is filled with hundreds of signs pending repair and it seems that every time we return one batch to a community, another two join the pile.

Needless to say, many of you – our valued clients – are starting to grow impatient and enquire regularly and ever more forcefully about your signage. Please know that while you may not see any progress from your vantage point, we are returning neighborhoods and communities back to normal every day and this will happen with yours as well.

We were all caught by surprise by the magnitude of the damage Irma inflicted on trees, fences, and signs, and we admit it took some time for us to get “into a groove” to handle the logistics with some efficiency. We have hired extra personnel, including through staffing agencies, but have found finding candidates challenging too: lots of landscaping, construction and trade companies are hiring for the same reasons. To make matters worse, we face challenges getting adequate supplies of some materials as Irma has stretched certain supply chains beyond the breaking point. We cannot adequately express our deep gratitude for you calling us first, for your trust in our ability to “fix this”, for your patience and understanding in the face of long delays; but we want you to know we are fully committed to getting through this as fast as humanly possible. Our sincere apologies for at times being unable to provide meaningful information on completion dates, but we assure you that you are not forgotten.

Lykins-Signtek needs Installation and Production personnel – we’re hiring!

Thu, 12 Oct 2017 20:49:00 GMT

As the scope of Irma’s destructive impact on street and traffic signs and business signage becomes clear, as our phones ring off the hook with requests and our yard fills up with damaged signs, there is only one conclusion: WE NEED MORE PEOPLE!

Please check our Jobs webpage for a list of current openings. But in more general terms, if you have, or know of and can recommend anyone with, solid welding, field or booth painting, assembly, installation, or general trades skills, with a quality mindset and a positive attitude, we want to talk!

Our company offers a competitive pay and benefit package, a friendly atmosphere, and – with over 40 employees – long-term career opportunities. Contact Deanna at 239-594-8494 NOW.

Hurricane Irma’s effects on Lykins-Signtek

Thu, 21 Sep 2017 18:54:00 GMT

We’re finally fully operational! Fortunately everyone here came out of this unharmed and with their homes essentially intact, maybe helped by a company decision to assist our employees with plywood and crews to board up before the storm hit. While one of our facilities suffered significant roof damage, most of the negative consequences of Irma to our business came as a result of the loss of power for 1 1/2 weeks. Within a couple of days we were able to run some essential office systems off our generators, but our welding, painting, and metalworking equipment was down until now.

Irma left a trail of overturned, bent and broken signs throughout Southwest Florida. Our first priority is to assist the communities that rely on Lykins-Signtek for their street and traffic signage to restore this critical infrastructure as much as possible. Our field installation teams have been on the road since Wednesday last week and our yard is filling up fast with signs needing repair. Our supply chain is getting back in gear and our production team is putting the pedal to the metal to catch up on prior orders while responding to the current needs. We ask for your patience and understanding while we go through the steps of evaluation, quote, and repair/replace for each client.

Lykins-Signtek was built on long-term relationships and we’re going to get through this rebuilding effort together. We thank you for your business and will do everything we can to get you taken care of as soon as possible.

Banners for Lions

Mon, 21 Aug 2017 21:16:00 GMT

Lykins-Signtek supplies signage for the campus of Naples’ thriving First Baptist Church and Academy, and since the football stadium was expanded a few years ago, we have been trusted with the annual installation of banners covering the entire length of the main grandstand. The banners on the north and south side of the press box are nearly 40 and 50 ft long and use high-resolution digital images of the Lions in action. The banners shield the view of the back of the bleachers and provide some shelter from the wind, but most importantly, they set the tone for a great game. Go Lions!
First Baptist Academy Athletics website

From Naples to Minnesota, with our best wishes

Thu, 08 Jun 2017 14:31:00 GMT

A long-standing, local client of Lykins-Signtek asked us to provide all the signage for a major renovation to their Quarterdeck Resort property on Gull Lake in Minnesota. This request came with a very tight deadline and consisted of a number of custom-routed wall-mounted and hanging signs made out of high-density urethane as well as some street signs. The larger double-sided hanging signs were built with a “hidden” internal aluminum structure for support. As part of this project we also had to recreate a classic “Phillips 66” gas station sign, something our production team enjoyed doing for some nostalgic reason! However intricate the signs, they were nothing out of the ordinary for our guys and we built and finished them expediently; what was a bit different was the need to pack and ship them so they would get to Minnesota in pristine shape. Our ever-resourceful Pete Lykins stepped in to help build a custom 10 foot long packing crate, carefully bracing each individual sign, much like framed art. Pete later travelled to Gull Lake himself to supervise the installation of the signs – and hopefully enjoyed some bass fishing while he was there! (the picture shows a partially filled crate)

https://quarterdeckresort.com/

http://quarterdeckresort.com/were-hosting-this-years-classic-bass-champions-tour/

Please follow our directions…

Tue, 06 Jun 2017 21:00:00 GMT

Ever expanding its “Island Paradise” theme, Naples Reserve continues to work with Lykins-Signtek to enhance its resort-style amenities with visually engaging signage. We just completed and installed a fun directional signpost in the Island Club pool and beach area and we believe it is one of the most professional ones around. This sign consists of a 12 ft tall (visible part) 6″ painted aluminum post with 19 unique routed and sandblasted cedar directional signs painted in various colors and finished with a clear coat. Each directional sign is attached with custom-routed PVC spacers. The destinations and distances were provided by the client but in keeping with our desire to “do things right”, we wanted the sign directions to be geographically accurate. This goal added complexity to the layout as the position of the signs on the post had to avoid mutual interference while looking esthetically pleasing and staying within the allowable height. We are truly happy with how it turned out and more importantly, so is our client Eecon Construction.

Key West business comes to Lykins-Signtek for their signs

Thu, 18 May 2017 15:47:00 GMT

The Tunaskin Store, a specialty aquatic sports store on Duval Street in Key West, determined that Lykins-Signtek was the best choice for their new signage. Jim Geiger worked with the client to create two internally illuminated signs: one double-sided canopy hanging sign and one wall sign. The signs are of all-aluminum, welded construction with router-cut lettering and logo and “push-through” acrylic inserts covered with brushed aluminum laminate. When illuminated, the lettering and logo appear to “float” on a halo of light. A big thank you to Mitch Fusek from Tunaskin for bringing this great concept to us!
www.tunaskin.net

Deceptively simple sign, multiple steps, beautiful result

Fri, 05 May 2017 19:29:00 GMT

We produce and install signs of many types, shapes, and colors every day but sometimes one just stands out. The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club in Fort Myers has been a loyal customer of Lykins-Signtek for several years and recently ordered a new sign for their Sports Complex. 1.5″ thick high-density urethane (sometimes called signfoam) was CNC routed, masked off and sandblasted with a wood-grain overlay, primed, and hand-painted with 7 enamel colors to achieve the vibrant finish that makes it so appealing. This is a nice example of the products we love to make, take great pride in, and are uniquely positioned to create.

This wasn’t us…

Tue, 04 Apr 2017 16:21:00 GMT

…but it is too funny. When you’re in business for as long as we have been, you have pretty much made every mistake possible at some point along the way, but we don’t recall our installation team ever hanging a sign upside down! We don’t know which one of our competitors handled this one – nor would we name them here – but hopefully they notice soon.

Business lesson: don’t take anything for granted. Employee training, job documentation, installation records, management review. Our installers are required to take a picture of the product upon completion, the job packets submitted for invoicing include the design proof, work orders and installation notes, and every job packet is checked by management. It does not stop human error, but it allows us to detect errors quickly – and fix them.

Superman Bill

Fri, 31 Mar 2017 12:52:00 GMT

Today is Bill Young’s 20th anniversary working for our company – in fact, he was here before there even was a Lykins-Signtek! Bill was an employee of Signtek before the merger with Lykins and has been with us continuously since. He is the undisputed master of our “weed room” (for industry novices, this is not a – ahem – “smoking area” but the room where vinyl lettering and graphics get cut, separated, and applied to signs); he also takes care of vinyl lamination, our street and traffic sign insert supply and production, engraving, custom ADA sign production and so much more. He’s always here, always on top of things, a fount of knowledge, and solid as can be. Last but not least, he’s fun to be around and just a great guy. We all love him and look forward to the next 20. Congratulations and Thank You Bill!

If you have a great idea, we’ll make it happen

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 14:13:00 GMT

At Naples Reserve, our client’s design firm created fun, original sign concepts for the Island Club clubhouse area. We had to come up with ways to turn those concepts into durable, weather-resistant products. One of our favorites is the Beach Rules sign – it should look like a surfboard planted in the sand. We 3D-routed the boards out of 1″ thick solid PVC, painted and applied laminated digital graphics, then mounted them to a sturdy welded and cross-braced aluminum support structure buried deeply to withstand strong winds. Other fun signs in this project include “charred treasure-map” style pool and spa rules mounted on cedar wood panels.

ADA signs can be creative too!

Tue, 14 Mar 2017 12:46:00 GMT

We design and produce thousands of ADA signs every year, and most of the creative thought revolves around style, layers, materials and colors. But every now and then there’s an interesting twist to the content itself – and St. John’s latest restroom signs are just too good! Credit to the church for originality and humor (it was their idea).

One community, One day

Thu, 02 Mar 2017 17:11:00 GMT

Last Friday, we removed the old mailboxes and installed 41 new double decorative mailbox sets for all 82 homes in the Ventura neighborhood in Pelican Marsh, in one day. It was an intensive and highly productive day of work for a team of 6, led by Pete Lykins, but they still managed to be “a good crew and pleasant guys” in the process, according to Mr. Weisberger, President of the Ventura HOA.
We also repainted all the lamp posts in the neighborhood to match the gloss black of the new mailboxes – and upgraded all lights to LED while we were at it. Our thanks to Southwest Property Management for yet another great opportunity.

Above and Beyond

Fri, 03 Feb 2017 13:45:00 GMT

Last week we completed the first phase of Toll Brothers’ new Azure at Hacienda Lakes development signage. From final approval of design proof & contract on Tuesday 1/24 to completion on Friday 1/27, our team fabricated, painted, assembled and installed 21 all-welded aluminum post-and-panel signs with vinyl graphics in a record 3 days. Hats off to our crew! By the way, we also build the custom, all-aluminum street & traffic signs for this community.

Brand New?

Wed, 01 Feb 2017 13:53:00 GMT

Lykins-Signtek has been Pulte’s primary signage supplier for years. Nearly a decade ago, we provided all marketing signage for the Plantation and Bridgetown communities by Centex (now Pulte) and we have added and updated signs since, but most of the signs are at least 5 years old. A few days ago, Pulte requested thorough cleaning of the existing signs and there is no better proof of the quality of our products than the results achieved after cleaning: the signs still look almost as good as new! High quality materials, high quality digital graphic prints, high quality lamination, high quality paint. What Lykins-Signtek stands for.

Permitting is a breeze…

Wed, 18 Jan 2017 20:23:00 GMT

We are one of the few sign companies in the area with a full-time permit specialist on staff, and we need it. With dozens of permitted projects on the books at any time, there is a mountain of documentation involved – and it isn’t getting any better. The City of Naples now wants most building signs engineered, and Marco Island is going down the same path. Is it really necessary to engineer the wall mounting method of channel letters that weigh a few pounds? Engineering of course adds delays and costs for our customers. We are all about doing things by the book but with nearly 20 years of experience, we can confidently state that the process is more difficult than ever, and far beyond what is justified.

Here’s to a great 2017!

Wed, 11 Jan 2017 10:06:00 GMT

We wish our clients, partners, and suppliers an excellent year and look forward to meeting many new friends. Lykins-Signtek was built on long-term relationships and has enjoyed the highs and weathered the storms with you and because of you. Thank You!

Welcome to our new website

Wed, 11 Jan 2017 10:05:00 GMT

It’s been a bit too long since we gave our website some attention and it had fallen behind the times. We hope this new design and expanded content will help you find what you need efficiently, and we plan to add many more pictures to our gallery to trigger your imagination. We look forward to your feedback!