We aim to deliver the highest-quality signage and graphics with the personal care of a local shop. Every project that comes through our doors is treated with precision, honesty, and respect.
Founder & Owner
Shawn Monahan
Critical Signs
In January of 1999 Shawn Monahan began his business primarily lettering race cars and occasionally working on commercial vehicles. Shawn's first year of business thrived from word of mouth referrals only. As a result, the following year Shawn developed a large amount of business from the quickly spreading news of his excellent quality of service.
For the first two years, Shawn operated Critical Signs from his home garage. Business quickly boomed, and Shawn could no longer accommodate the demand from home, so he opened his first commercial location in Waterford in September of 2002.
To keep up with the growing business, Shawn's brother James (better known as Diego), joined forces. They decided to add screen printing and embroidery to their list of services, thus changing their name to Critical Signs, Graphics, Screen Printing and Embroidery, LLC.
As such, they chose to relocate and expand to a large shop in Groton. Business continued to grow and eventually the opportunity arose to move back to Waterford. They grabbed at it — a 4,500 square foot industrial space on Route 85 — and it is now the current home to Critical Signs.
Shawn and Jenn thrive on quality service, thus creating their slogan "Your Image is Our Business!"
WHY CHOOSE US
Born and raised in Waterford, CT, Critical Signs has been crafting custom signage, vehicle wraps, trophies, and graphics for southeastern Connecticut businesses since 1999. We handle every detail — from design through installation.
Over 25 years serving Connecticut businesses — from race cars to full commercial fleets, storefronts to stadium signage. Our 4,500 sq ft fabrication shop on Route 85 in Waterford handles every project in-house, from first render to final bolt.
We use only industry-grade vinyl, UV-resistant overlaminate, and commercial substrates — from 3M and Avery Dennison films to aluminum composite panels and routed HDU foam. Every product is engineered to perform outdoors for years without fading, peeling, or cracking.
Unlike most sign shops that charge for consultations, our team will come to your location, assess your space, measure exact dimensions, and evaluate mounting conditions — all at no cost. You get a precise quote without any guesswork or surprise fees.
Sign permits can be complicated, slow, and frustrating. We've navigated hundreds of local and state applications across Connecticut. We prepare all required drawings, submit to the municipality, field inspector questions, and follow through to approval — so you never have to step foot in a town hall.
OUR TEAM
From conception to fabrication, our tight-knit crew works diligently to ensure your signage exceeds expectations.
VIEW MOREShawn & Jenn Monahan
Owners
Lindsay Brewer
Graphic Arts / Production
Aidan Griffin
Graphic Arts / Production
Silvestre Cortez
Tint Master
Nicki Reeves
Lead Installer / Production
Shawn & Jenn Monahan
Owners
Lindsay Brewer
Graphic Arts / Production
Aidan Griffin
Graphic Arts / Production
SEE WHAT OUR SATISFIED CUSTOMERS SAY
Mike D.
""Critical Signs did an outstanding job on our fleet wrap. The design team worked with us one-on-one and the final result exceeded our expectations. Highly recommend them to any business in the area."
GET IN TOUCH
WITH OUR EXPERTS
Whether it's a routine service or a complex project, our experienced team is here to help. We take the time to understand your needs and provide clear communication every step of the way.