Case Studies:
Sign Restoration Projects

Restoring Faith in Signage

Manitowish Waters Presbyterian Community Church, Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin

Background

 The Manitowish Waters Presbyterian Community Church, a cornerstone of faith in the Northwoods since 1935, had two cedarwood signs created in the early 1990s through the generosity of a benefactor. These signs, positioned on the north and south sides of a busy highway, have been welcoming worshippers and passersby for nearly two decades.

Challenge

Exposed to the harsh Wisconsin winters and constant traffic, both signs had suffered significant weathering. The church leadership was concerned about finding a skilled craftsman to restore these important markers of their community presence.

Our Approach

Chad proactively reached out to the church, connecting with the pastor within days. This timely intervention aligned perfectly with the church's need, as they were actively seeking a solution for their deteriorating signs.

Restoration Process

  1. Initial Assessment: Carefully examined both signs to determine the extent of weather damage and wear.

  2. Cleaning: Gently removed years of accumulated grime and weathering.

  3. Wood Repair: Addressed any structural issues in the cedarwood, preserving as much of the original material as possible.

  4. Surface Preparation: Meticulously sanded and prepared the surface for refinishing and gold leafing.

  5. Gold Leaf Application: Reapplied 23.75 karat gold leaf to the lettering, ensuring a brilliant and lasting finish.

  6. Refinishing: Applied high-quality, weather-resistant finishes to protect the restored wood.

  7. Weather Protection: Added extra protective measures to shield against future harsh weather conditions.

The restoration process took approximately 4 months, working on a part-time basis to ensure each detail was perfect.

Result

The restored signs now stand as beacons of welcome along the highway, their gold lettering gleaming brilliantly against the rich cedarwood background. They not only serve their practical purpose of guiding people to the church but also reflect the enduring faith and community spirit of the congregation.

Unique Aspects

  • The project was funded by the same benefactor who originally donated the signs, showcasing ongoing community support.

  • The use of 23.75 karat gold leaf adds a touch of elegance and significance, reflecting the church's valued place in the community.

  • The signs' location on a busy highway emphasizes the importance of durability in the restoration process.

Conclusion

This project exemplifies our commitment to preserving not just signs, but community landmarks. By restoring these cedarwood signs, we've helped the Manitowish Waters Presbyterian Community Church maintain its visible presence in the area, honoring both its history and its ongoing mission. The project stands as a testament to the lasting quality of cedarwood signs when properly maintained and the importance of skilled restoration in preserving community heritage.

"We were amazed at how timely Chad's call was. The restoration of our signs has been a true blessing. They look even more beautiful than when they were first installed, and we're grateful that they'll continue to welcome our community for years to come."
- Pastor [Name], Manitowish Waters Presbyterian Community Church

Manitowish Waters Presbyterian Community Church

  • Before Restoration

    Before Restoration

  • During Restoration_Manitowish Waters Church

    During Restoration

  • During Restoration: Gold Leaf

    During Restoration: Gold Leaf

  • After Restoration

    After Restoration

Signed Appeal. No Reason to Acquit

Harrold, Scrobell & Danner Attorneys at Law Minocqua, Wisconsin

Background

Harrold, Scrobell & Danner, a respected law firm serving the Northwoods since 1974, had a cedarwood sign created by Chad's father in the mid to late 1990s. After nearly three decades of Northwoods weather, the sign was showing significant wear. In a serendipitous turn of events, Chad noticed the sign's condition while in the area and approached the firm about restoration.

Challenge

The sign had deteriorated to the point of breaking into six pieces, presenting a complex restoration project. The challenge was to not only repair the structural damage but also to restore the sign to its original grandeur, preserving its historical significance to both the law firm and our family business.

Design and Creation Process

  1. Initial Consultation: Chad's timely visit coincided with the firm's recent discussions about the sign's condition, leading to an immediate agreement to restore it.

  2. Retrieval and Assessment: The sign was carefully transported to our workshop in mid-winter, arriving in six separate pieces.

  3. Structural Repair: We meticulously reassembled the sign, reinforcing weak points to prevent future breakage.

  4. Wood Restoration: Treated and repaired the cedarwood to address years of weather damage.

  5. Design Preservation: Carefully recreated the original design, ensuring it matched the firm's established branding.

  6. Refinishing: Applied high-quality, weather-resistant paints and finishes suitable for the harsh Northwoods climate.

  7. Protective Measures: Implemented additional weatherproofing to extend the sign's lifespan.

The entire restoration process took approximately 3.5 months, working on a part-time basis to ensure every detail was perfect.

Result

The restored sign now stands as a proud symbol of Harrold, Scrobell & Danner's long-standing presence in Minocqua. It reflects the firm's commitment to tradition and quality, mirroring their approach to legal services. The sign's revival also serves as a testament to the durability and timeless appeal of well-crafted cedarwood signs.

Conclusion

This project exemplifies the value of skilled sign restoration and the importance of maintaining iconic business signage. By breathing new life into this cedarwood sign, we've helped Harrold, Scrobell & Danner preserve a piece of their history while reinforcing their professional image in the community. The restored sign stands as a bridge between the firm's established legacy and its future, much like their legal practice that blends traditional values with modern expertise.

"We were amazed at the timing of Chad's visit and thrilled with the results of the restoration. The sign looks as good as it did when it was first installed, if not better. It's a perfect representation of our firm's heritage and our ongoing commitment to serving the Northwoods community."
- [Partner's Name], Harrold, Scrobell & Danner

The Harrold, Scrobell & Danner Project

  • Before Sign Restoration

    Before Sign Restoration

  • During Sign Restoration

    During Sign Restoration

  • After Sign Restoration

    After Sign Restoration

Main Street Salon Sign

Blown Away: A Sign of Resilience

Main Street Salon
Belleville, Wisconsin

Background

 In 2018, as Chad contemplated returning to the sign-making business, he embarked on a mission to find a business in Belleville that could benefit from a new sign. His search led him to Main Street Salon, owned by Kathy, whose existing sign was in need of updating.

Initial Sign Creation

Chad approached Kathy with a proposition: he would create a new cedarwood sign at cost to help build his portfolio. Kathy enthusiastically agreed, recognizing the opportunity for a fresh, professional look for her salon.

Design and Creation Process

  1. Design Consultation: Collaborated with Kathy to create a design that reflected Main Street Salon's style and personality.

  2. Craftsmanship: Utilized premium cedarwood and high-quality finishes to ensure durability and visual appeal.

  3. Installation: Carefully installed the new sign, immediately enhancing the salon's street presence.

Result

The new sign made a significant impact on Main Street Salon's business. Its professional appearance attracted more attention from passersby, contributing to increased foot traffic and client base growth.

Unexpected Challenge

In June 2024, a tornado struck Belleville, causing widespread damage. Main Street Salon's beloved cedarwood sign was not spared, being smashed into three pieces during the storm.

Emergency Restoration

  1. Quick Response: Upon receiving the call from Kathy, we immediately prioritized the sign's restoration.

  2. Assessment: Carefully examined the three pieces to determine the extent of damage.

  3. Repair: Skillfully reassembled the sign, addressing any structural weaknesses.

  4. Refinishing: Touched up paint and finishes to seamlessly blend the repaired areas.

  5. Rapid Turnaround: Completed the entire restoration process within 3 weeks.

Outcome

The restored sign was reinstalled, looking as good as new. The quick turnaround and quality of the restoration meant that no one could tell the sign had ever been damaged.

Conclusion

This case study demonstrates not only the impact of quality signage on a small business but also the importance of reliable craftsmanship and customer service. From the initial creation that boosted Main Street Salon's presence to the swift restoration after a natural disaster, our commitment to excellence shines through. It's a testament to the durability of cedarwood signs and the enduring relationships we build with our clients.

"Chad's original sign truly transformed our salon's image and helped grow our business. When the tornado hit, we were devastated to see it damaged. But Chad's rapid response and incredible restoration work was a bright spot in our recovery. The sign looks perfect – you'd never know what it went through!"
- Kathy, Owner, Main Street Salon

The Main Street Salon Custom Sign & alon Project

  • Custom Sign: Main Street Salon

    Custom Sign: Main Street Salon

  • Tornado Damage

    Tornado Damage

  • During Restoration

    During Restoration

  • After Restoration

    After Restoration