Our Story
Leaman Signs was founded in 2011 by Greg Leaman during his second year at Memorial University of Newfoundland. Originally known as Engravable Designs, the company specialized in small-scale laser engraving and cutting services, delivering precision-crafted products to local businesses and individuals.
As demand grew, so did our capabilities. Over the years, we expanded our services, invested in equipment, and brought in expert staff to tackle more complex and large-scale sign fabrication projects. What started as a small laser engraving shop evolved into a full-service sign manufacturing company, known for blending creativity with structural integrity.
At the core of our success are the Leaman ABCs:
Aptitude & Attitude – We approach every project with skill and a solutions-driven mindset.
Better Your Best – We push ourselves to improve every day.
Clear Communication – Transparency and collaboration define our process.
Sense of Urgency – We respect your time and deliver on schedule.
Today, Leaman Signs is a trusted leader in custom signage, offering everything from illuminated storefront signs to landmark archways and complete wayfinding systems. With a strong foundation and an eye on the future, we continue to innovate and elevate the industry standard.
And we’re just getting started.
How it works
The Leaman Way
The Leaman Way: From Concept to CompletionAt Leaman Signs, we follow a structured process to ensure your sign meets the highest standards of quality, durability, and visual impact. Here’s a breakdown of the Leaman Way Critical Path—the key steps that determine your project’s timeline and successful completion.
1. Consultation & Design Approval
📌 Timeline: Varies based on client responsiveness
We start by understanding your needs, brand identity, and the intended location of your sign.
Based on your requirements and budget, we develop a project cost proposal.
After project proposal approval and deposit is received, our design team creates a proof for your approval.
Any revisions or modifications happen here.
Critical Path Consideration: Delays in approvals or deposit can extend the project timeline.
2. Permitting & Engineering (if required)
📌 Timeline: 2–6 weeks, depending on municipal regulations
Some signs require municipal permits or engineered drawings for structural integrity.
We handle all necessary paperwork and ensure compliance with local codes.
Read our blog post here about considerations when opening a business in St. John's
Critical Path Consideration: Waiting on permit approval can be one of the longest steps.
3. Material Procurement & Production Scheduling
📌 Timeline: 1–4 weeks
Once the design is finalized, we order materials (e.g., aluminum, acrylic, LEDs).
Our production team schedules the job based on availability of materials and workload.
Critical Path Consideration: Material lead times impact project speed, especially for custom orders.
4. Fabrication & Assembly
📌 Timeline: 1–4 weeks
Our team cuts, welds, paints, and assembles the sign components.
Electrical work and lighting integration (if applicable) are completed.
Critical Path Consideration: Complex signs require more fabrication time.
5. Quality Control & Pre-Installation Preparation
📌 Timeline: 1 week
The sign undergoes a full quality check to ensure it meets our standards.
If installation requires footings or structural supports, this work is prepped in advance.
Critical Path Consideration: Any required adjustments must be addressed here to avoid rework delays.
6. Installation
📌 Timeline: 1–3 days (weather-dependent)*
Our install team arrives on-site and safely installs the sign.
Electrical connections and final inspections are completed.
Critical Path Consideration: Weather conditions and site readiness can impact the installation date.
7. Final Inspection & Handover
📌 Timeline: 1 day
We perform a final quality check and ensure everything is working as intended.
Your sign is now ready to make an impact!
What Can Affect Timelines?
While we work diligently to meet deadlines, certain factors can extend project completion:
✅ Delayed Approvals – Faster feedback keeps things moving.
✅ Permitting & Engineering Delays – Some municipalities take longer than others.
✅ Material Lead Times – Specialty materials can require additional sourcing time.
✅ Weather Conditions – Outdoor installations are dependent on safe working conditions.
By understanding the critical path, you can help us keep your project on track. Our team is committed to transparent communication, so we’ll keep you updated every step of the way.