A FedEx survey shows that 76% of consumers enter a store based on its sign, and 68% purchase a product or service from the business because its sign impresses them.
Among all effective signs, LED pole signs play a significant and impactful role. Choosing the right support structure between single-pole vs. dual-pole LED signs for your outdoor promotions is a critical decision.
Though both serve the same purpose– advertising your business– they differ in,
- Structure
- Visibilty
- Advantages difference
- Costs
- Aesthetics, and more.
In this guide, we will discuss the two primary freestanding options: the Single-Pole LED Sign (Monopole) and the Dual-Pole LED Sign (Twin Pole), and compare them to determine which is the best choice for your business promotion.
Let’s get to the point.
1. Understanding the Single-Pole LED Sign (Monopole)
A single-pole LED sign (often called a monopole sign or a type of pylon sign) is a large, freestanding outdoor structure supported by a single vertical column. Single-pole LED signs feature illuminated digital displays mounted at the top.
The main feature of a single-pole LED sign is a single steel, aluminium, or concrete pole, or a composite pole (the “monopole”). The pole is generally anchored in a deep concrete foundation. The sign cabinet or LED screen is mounted centrally or offset at the top.
Single-pole LED signs are designed and engineered for maximum visibility from long distances. This characteristic makes them a standard fixture for businesses located near highways, interstates, or busy commercial roads.
Single-Pole LED Sign Advantages and Uses
The advantages and uses of the single-pole LED sign include the following.
- Maximum Height: These high-visibility outdoor LED signs are designed to reach heights of 60 feet or more. The height clears common obstructions like trees, buildings, or overpasses.
This is essential for visibility from major highways or interstates. The height makes them highly effective at capturing distant attention.
- Small Footprint: Single-pole LED signs require only one support column. As a result, they occupy minimal ground space, making them ideal for areas with tight parking or restricted setbacks.
- Aesthetics: They offer a sleek, modern, “lollipop” or mast-like appearance.
2. Understanding the Dual-Pole LED Sign (Twin Pole)
A double-pole LED sign (also known as a twin-pole or double-leg sign) is a freestanding outdoor sign supported by two vertical columns rather than one.
The LED display or sign cabinet is mounted between the two poles, forming a structure resembling a large “H” or a goalpost.
While single-pole signs are designed for height and sleekness, double-pole signs are designed for stability and width.
Dual-Pole LED Sign Benefits and Uses
- Maximum Width and Content: The two-leg structure provides you with excellent support for much wider signs. This is perfect for multi-tenant shopping centres, industrial parks, or large car dealerships that need expansive horizontal displays.
- High Stability: The twin-pole design naturally resists twisting and swaying. This makes it inherently more stable under wind loads than a similarly tall monopole.
This increased stability allows businesses to use more standard, readily available steel piping, making the structure more durable.
- Easy Readability: While generally shorter (typically 10–40 feet high), the width ensures drivers on surface streets have enough time to read lists of tenant names or detailed promotional messages.
3. Single-Pole vs. Dual-Pole LED Signs- Key Differences Between Pole Sign Types
Single-pole and double-pole LED signs serve the same purpose of brand or business promotion. But their structure, stability, and use cases differ. Below is a clear comparison with a detailed explanation of these two types of LED signs.
| Feature | Single-Pole LED Sign | Double-Pole LED Sign |
| Support Structure | Mounted on one central pole | Mounted on two vertical poles |
| Footprint on Ground | Minimal | Wider base required |
| Load Distribution | Weight carried by one column | Weight shared across two columns |
| Maximum Sign Size | Small to medium | Medium to very large |
| Stability in Wind | Moderate | High |
| Installation Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Visual Presence | Slim, clean appearance | Strong, bold appearance |
| Best For | Retail storefronts, small business signage, and roadside shops | Highway signs, shopping centres, and large commercial sites |
| Maintenance Access | Easier for smaller signs | Easier for large panels due to structural support |
| Lifespan Under Heavy Weather | Shorter under harsh conditions | Longer under harsh conditions |
3.1. Structural Stability (Wind Load)
- Single Pole:
The key challenge for a single-pole sign is torque (twisting) from wind loads. Since it is engineered to mounted on one central pole, you must custom fabricate the heavy-gauge pole and anchor it into a deep, reinforced concrete foundation to prevent rotation and swaying (often 15–20 feet deep) for maximum stability.
- Double Pole:
A double-pole LED sign uses two vertical posts. The sign cabinet sits between them or on top of them. This spreads the load evenly and reduces strain on the structure. So, wind cannot easily twist these wind-resistant pole signs. It is the standard choice for larger LED displays.
3.2. Size Capability
- Single Pole
Single-pole systems are limited in how large the sign can be before weight and wind pressure become safety concerns. They are practical for small to mid-sized digital signs.
- Double Pole
Double-pole systems handle wide and tall LED boards. That makes them suitable for high-traffic roads, commercial precincts, and locations where long-range visibility matters.
3.3. Visual Impact and Best Uses
- Single-Pole
Single-pole LED signs give a modern, minimal look. They suit boutique stores, cafés, medical clinics, and local service businesses.
- Double-Pole
Double-pole LED signs have a commanding presence. They are designed to be seen from long distances. So, you can consider them for shopping centres, fuel stations, and large retail sites.
3.4. Space on Site
- Single-Pole
If ground space is tight, a single-pole solution is easier to accommodate. It needs only one footing point.
- Double-Pole
Double-pole installations need a wider base area. So, you must consider the surroundings when planning signage near driveways, footpaths, or landscaped zones.
3.5. Long-Term Durability
Under normal conditions, both types last many years. However, in locations with strong winds, coastal exposure, or frequent heavy storms, double-pole structures typically remain stable longer and experience less structural fatigue.
3.6. Estimated Cost Comparison for Single-Pole Vs. Double-Pole LED Signs
Here is cost estimation of both types of LED signs in Australia, which we brought to you based on different criteria.
| Cost Component | Single-Pole LED Sign | Double-Pole LED Sign |
| LED Display Unit (small to medium) | $2,000 to $8,000+ for the LED board itself (varies by size/resolution) | $8,000 to $25,000+ for larger LED boards suitable for high visibility |
| Structural Frame | Usually simpler, lower material cost (one pole) | More material, higher material cost (two poles plus bracing) |
| Foundations & Civil Work | Smaller footing; $1,000 to $4,000+ typical depending on ground condition | Two footings; $3,000 to $10,000+ depending on depth/soil conditions |
| Installation Labour | $1,000 to $5,000+, depending on height/site access | $3,000 to $10,000+ depending on complexity and location |
| Electrical & Permits | $500 to $3,000+ (wiring, certification) | $1,000 to $4,000+ (more work at height and on two poles) |
| Total Typical Range | $5,000 to $15,000+ | $15,000 to $40,000+ |
4. Which One Should You Choose?
Which type of pole sign is suitable for your business when you compare single vs dual support structure signage?
Choosing the right LED pole sign depends on your needs and business purposes.
Choose a single-pole LED sign if:
- Your sign requirement is small to medium.
- You have limited ground space.
- You want a lower installation cost.
- Your location has moderate wind exposure.
Choose a double-pole LED sign if:
- You need a large or wide sign.
- You need long-distance visibility.
- Your site faces strong wind conditions.
- You want long-term structural security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Usually no. Single-pole structures are designed for a specific weight and wind load. Installing a larger LED panel later often exceeds the original structural rating. In most cases, upgrading to a larger screen requires replacing the pole and foundation or switching to a double-pole structure.
Not necessarily. Routine maintenance, such as LED module replacement and electrical servicing, is similar for both types. The difference is in structural upkeep. Double-pole signs generally experience less vibration and stress over time, which can reduce long-term structural repair costs in high-wind locations.
Yes. Both single-pole and dual-pole signs are often subject to strict sign codes regarding maximum height, setback distance from the road, and sign face square footage in different states.
You must check local zoning before planning installation.
The Dual Pole (Twin Pole) is far more effective for listing tenants. The added structural width allows the sign cabinet to be wider, providing ample space to display multiple company logos and names in a clearly readable format.
Final Thought
Choosing the right structure—single or dual pole—requires a balance between your location’s demands (highway vs. surface street) and your budget. The final decision determines how effectively your investment translates into customer traffic. At Signage 4Business Group, we specialise in this complexity. We offer custom signage design to optimise visibility for your unique location, expert signage installation meeting all structural codes, and durable solutions that withstand high winds. We ensure your high-visibility outdoor LED sign is engineered not just to stand tall, but to perform.
