CUSTOM METAL SIGNS
In the world of décor, people are always searching for dramatic new ideas to bring freshness and originality to their space, whether that’s at home, at their business, or for a personal project. Custom metal signs satisfy that desire perfectly.
When executed with thought and professional expertise, custom metal signs can be the shining capstone to your creative design project.
In this article, we will cover a few of the more common styles of sign that prominently feature metal as a material. Next, we’ll cover some examples of great ways you can use custom metal signs to suit your needs, and finally, we’ll review the importance of finding a company that has the expertise to design and install your new sign.
Click the following links to be taken to that section:
Do you have questions about what sign to choose?
Do you want advice on what designs will best fit your plans?
Do you need a professional quote to put your options into perspective?
CONTACT AGC SIGNS TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE
AGC SIGNS | YOUR ALL-IN-ONE SIGN STORE
TYPES OF METAL SIGN
There are no strict rules when it comes to designing custom metal signs, but there are a few more common types of signs that fit most purposes.
Below are some details regarding three of the most common types of signs that incorporate metal in their construction.
FULL-METAL SIGNS
DESCRIPTION: The most common metal sign is fully-metal plate signs. Such signs are either built out of multiple pieces of metal that have been welded together, or through the process of stamping.
Stamping is when a sign is mechanically punched out of a larger metal sheet. This process is often cheaper than moulding or welding, and significantly faster to produce. Another benefit of stamping is that it can be used to emboss your metal signs for some added flair.
USE: Being entirely metal means that these signs are exceptionally durable compared to other materials. They can handle industrial environments, and with anti-rust coating or paint, they are frequently used outside.
You’ll notice many exterior safety signs or road signs are single pieces of metal with graphics or text printed on them, and for good reason: durability.
METAL-LETTERED SIGNS
DESCRIPTION: Metal letters can be made by hand, through stamping, or sometimes they’re even cast. Letters are either mounted on a backboard of some other material using rivets, or they’re displayed by themselves and held up through supports. This second method is referred to as pin mounting.
USE: Metal-lettered signs are a stylish choice used by businesses or homeowners to give their space some rustic spice. Letters can be purchased individually from hardware or home décor stores and can be used for a whole host of decorative reasons, from augmenting your living space to labelling your shed.
Pin-mounted signs are quite easy to install for the homeowner, but it’s still important that you follow a detailed guide when you do so to avoid unnecessary mistakes.
HYBRID SIGNS
DESCRIPTION: The term “hybrid sign” doesn’t technically refer to a specific shape of the sign, rather it refers to the whole category of signs that use a combination of different materials in their construction. For example, the sign above uses strong metal for the frame, with an easily replaceable canvas banner suspended in the middle.
USE: There are a few common materials that most signs are made of, each with its own pros and cons:
Wood - Attractive and evocative, but harder to customize.
Plastic - Can take almost any shape, but is not very strong. Ideal for interior use.
Metal - Exceptionally strong and durable. perfect for the outdoors, but often the most expensive option.
For comparison, plastic signs will last 3-5 years outdoors, while a coated aluminum sign will last 5-7 years under the same conditions.
EXAMPLES & CONSIDERATIONS
There are so many different shapes and styles of custom metal signs, and doing lots of research will help you make up your mind on what sign will best suit your needs.
Check out the examples below, as well as the section on considerations to keep in mind when making a purchase decision.
Considerations
Installing a sign will have a noticeable impact on the surrounding environment. Therefore, remember to keep in mind these important factors as you do your research and consider possibilities:
Size - Will it fit?
Location - Make sure your sign won’t block anything important
Weight - The heavier the sign, the more robust the supports it’ll need.
Indoors or Outdoors? - Indoor signs don’t need to be as durable, while outdoor signs will need to survive the elements.
Backlighting - Do you want the sign to have lighting?
Cost - Your choice of materials will affect this. Asking a company for a free quote will help you choose the right option.
Maintenance - Will your sign require upkeep? If so, you’ll have to factor maintenance costs into your budget.
A professional sign company will be able to give you guidance as you review these considerations. When in doubt, contact the experts.
Custom METAL SIGNs COMPANIES
When looking for a company that can advise you on the differences between all the varieties of custom metal signs, do plenty of research.
Check reviews, ask about their prices and their previous projects, and if possible, try to find a full-service company.
A full-service company, like AGC Signs, is one that will walk you through every step of the production process, including:
Design
Manufacturing
Installation
Maintenance