By Sharon Friedmann
A ton of intricate design work, detailed planning, and frequent correspondence went into the design, fabrication, and installation of the monster-sized DSV sign.
A ton of intricate design work, detailed planning, and frequent correspondence went into the design, fabrication, and installation of the monster-sized DSV sign by Gregory Signs & Engraving Ltd., in Vaughan, Ont., which is celebrating its 40th year in business in 2021. From the planning stage to bringing it home at DSV’s Milton, Ont., plant on June 12, 2020, there were twists, turns, challenges, and ‘aha’ moments along the way for the seasoned signmaking team.
Seemingly seamless
DSV’s sign was destined to make a powerful first impression. It had to be modern in design and seamlessly fabricated as one giant sign. Originally, the company wanted an illuminated sign. However, that type of sign would have visible seams—a non-negotiable design detail that meant other options needed to be explored. Trusting the expert advice of the Gregory Signs team, DSV settled on a custom fabricated, aluminum channel letter sign with top and bottom recessed lights to illuminate it.
The next major task was to finalize the drawings and to map out the fabrication of the sign within the shop space. Thought also had to be given as to how the final 1814.4-kg (4000-lb), 3.96- x 12.8-m (13- x 42-ft) sign—the largest ground sign of its kind to be produced by the signmaker to date—would be transported in one piece more than 45 km (28 miles) away. Ultimately, the success of this project would hinge on the signmaker’s ability to identify challenges, make sound decisions, and work as a team to deliver DSV’s ‘big’ vision.
