Permanent, regulatory and overhead signs have plaement requirements according to local and state codes and/or the ADA.  Identification signs and directional signs should be placed at decision points.  With temporary signs you have to work around bad lighting and incompatible architecture (ceilings that are too high or pillars in the way of the ideal spot), but see how well a compromise location works so you can decide where to put permanent signs.

Permanent signs are required to be mounted 60" from the center of the sign to the floor.  Signs are to be on the handle side of the door, 3" from the door frame.  All overhead signs must be hung a minimum of 80" from the bottom of the sign to the floor.

For masonite or SINTRA signs use 15 lb. picture hanging wire.  Drill holes (approx. 3/16" in diameter) in the masonite or SINTRA that are 1/2 - 1" from the top edge and approximately 2-4" in from the side edges.  Pull a length of wire through each hole and twist the wire around itself about 1" to fasten.  At the ceiling, use clips on acoustical tile grid work, or hooks that are the same shape as cup hooks only bigger (called "ceiling hooks").  Loop the wire around the hooks and use a level or measure from the ceiling to make sure the sign is level.  Measure from the floor to make sure the signs is at the right height.

Hang all overhead signs the same height from the bottom of the the sign to the floor.  86" is a good height.

Use the ADA guideline of 60" from the center of the sign to the floor.  Two-sided foam tape works for mounting mat board and SINTRA.  For stucco or stone walls you might have to use putty, silicone rubber, or hot glue to get the board to stick to an irregular surface.

Remove old signs with a 4" wide putty knife and razor scraper to get the foam tape off.  Any remaining residue can be removed with Goof Off.

Floor plans and Directories need to be hung opposite stairs or elevators, where most of the peopleentering the floor can spot them.  Hand these signs at the same location on every floor.

Free standing signs should be placed at decision points.   This includes directional, identifcation, and instructional signage.  Use a pedestal on the floor, a small sign on a table or desktop , or an adhesive label on a piece of equipment to get the job done.