Signage Compliance, Design Tips & News – CustomSigns.com Blog

Are you trying to choose the right metal sign for your business or home? Whether you’re setting up an office, organizing your property, or making your space more decorative, metal signs are a smart investment. This is especially true if you’re considering brass or aluminum signs.

Metal signs have grown in popularity due to their durability, customization, and professional appearance. These custom metal signs can be used for everything from business signage and outdoor signs to decorative wall signs and engraved nameplates. Let’s get into how their versatility sets them apart so you can confidently choose the best metal for your needs!

What materials are metal signs made of?

Aluminum vs. Brass: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to custom metal signs, aluminum and brass are two of the most trusted materials in the industry. Each has its strengths, and the best option depends on where you’ll use your sign and the kind of look you want to achieve. 

Aluminum Signs: Built to Last, Designed to Impress, Customizable

Aluminum metal signs are lightweight, rustproof, and strong, making them a great option for outdoor signage! Aluminum business signs are made from heavy-duty standard aluminum. This material has a professional white paint that allows for easy, colorful printing on top. They are also printed with UV-LED technology to ensure they are long-lasting for years to come.

Aluminum signs can also include a UV laminate overlay. This laminate overlay helps protect signs from UV degradation, abrasion, and moisture, helping with long-term outdoor use. Aluminum is a reliable and affordable option for outdoor signage, directional signs, and business signs.

• How long do aluminum metal signs last? 5-10 years or longer when used outdoors. Aluminum signs can potentially last longer indoors due to reduced exposure to external environmental factors such as weather, exposure to sun, etc. There’s also less wear and tear, which causes less stress on the sign’s material.
• What is the best thickness for aluminum metal signs? Thickness: 0.063″ pure aluminum.
• Features: UV-LED printed design on standard aluminum and an optional UV laminate.
• Uses: Warning sign/caution sign, no soliciting sign, do not enter sign, safety sign, and many more!
• Mounting options: Easy to mount with pre-drilled holes and rounded corners for safety.

Brass Signs: Timeless Style with a Premium Feel

Brass metal signs are corrosion resistant, durable, and offer a more professional aesthetic. These brass signs are known for their golden tone, which creates a classic look and adds prestige and elegance to any space. They are typically used in office signage, memorials, formal décor, and many other signs. 

Engraved brass signs are made from heavy-duty bugle brass and are available in multiple sizes and styles, from small brass plates to large brass wall signs, some of which include oxidized engraving for extra contrast. There are 2 kinds of brass: engraved brass and printed brass.

Thick brass is used for any brass sign that is engraved (can’t be sublimated), while thin brass is used for signs that are sublimated. Thin brass can also be engraved depending on the design, but the best option is normally to sublimate. Both engraved brass and printed brass have an optional UV protectant coat for extended outdoor life as well.

• How long do brass metal signs last? 10-20 years outdoors and potentially much longer indoors due to not being exposed to outdoor conditions (which cause the sign’s wear and tear). Indoor signs typically experience less material degradation.
• What is the best thickness for brass metal signs? For engraved brass, the thickness is 0.40″, and for printed brass, the thickness is 0.20″.
• Features: Engraved brass (etched or oxidized on thick brass) and printed brass (full-color sublimated on thin brass). UV-protectant coat (optional) for extended outdoor life.  
• Uses: Office nameplates, office door signs, desk nameplates, memorials, business directories, door nameplates, etc. 
• Mounting options: Adhesive, screws, chain, Velcro, and more. 

Aluminum vs. Brass: A Quick Comparison

What are the most common uses for metal signs?

Metal signs are more than functional; they’re often the first thing people notice. Whether you’re branding a business or personalizing a space, there’s a metal sign to fit every need:

• Business signage: Included but not limited to office door signs, custom storefront signs, hours of operation, reception signs, etc. 
• Property signs: Address signs, building signs, house number signs, no smoking signs, directional signs, do not enter signs, private property signs, no soliciting signs, etc.
• Safety signs: Warning signs, caution signs, danger signs, do not touch signs, employee only signs, fire safety signs, etc. 
• Home signs: Welcome signs, custom family name plaques, or fun décor.
• Brass plaques: Dedication plaques for memorials and historic markers.

You can create custom metal signs for your business or a personalized metal sign for your home! The possibilities are endless. 

How to Choose the Right Metal Sign?

Trying to figure out which is the best metal for signage? Well, it’s important to consider where and how your sign will be used (indoors or outdoors). Aluminum is the most popular metal for both indoor and outdoor signage due to its versatility. It’s lightweight, rustproof, weatherproof, and cost-effective. All these make it ideal for long-term use. Brass is usually preferred to give a polished and elegant appearance.

The best option truly comes down to how you want the sign to look, the impression you would like for the sign to give, and which environment the sign will be used in. Choosing the right metal can help your sign be durable, effective, and long-lasting.  

What is the best type of metal for outdoor use?

When it comes to deciding what the best type of metal for outdoor use can be, aluminum signs are typically the top choice for outdoor metal signage due to their superior corrosion resistance and ability to endure any external factors (like weather conditions and temperatures) without rusting. Aluminum signs are lightweight and low maintenance, making them ideal for long-term outdoor usage. While brass metal signs are traditionally used for indoor signage, they can serve well outdoors when properly sealed to prevent oxidation. Outdoor brass plaques are great to use wherever an elegant appearance is desired. They are a great option for memorial plates, dedication signs, and historic markers. However, for most outdoor signage needs, aluminum material remains the more durable solution.

How do you choose the best type of metal sign for your needs?

• Choose brass signs if you need any sort of custom business metal signage, such as for an office, lobby, memorial, or decorative wall. 

• Choose custom aluminum signs if you need any sort of outdoor signage, as they are weatherproof, rust-resistant, and long-lasting. 

How much do custom metal signs cost? 

Aluminum is generally more cost-effective due to its lightweight nature and its simple manufacturing process. The material cost for sublimated aluminum across standard gold, silver, and white finishes range between $8 and $12 per 12×24 sheet, depending on size and style. Other shapes and pre-cut sizes (oval, crest, or 6″ x 12″ panels) can fall between this range or higher based on design. 

Brass is often priced higher in cost because of the material’s higher copper content and more complex manufacturing process. Engraved brass costs range between $65 and $90 per 12″ x 24″ sheet, while plastic brass ranges between $25 and $40 per 12″ x 24″ sheet. Sublimated brass is slightly more affordable, ranging between $25 and $35 per sheet. 

These are average retail prices for finished signs and don’t include pricing for labor, ink, or customization, but instead give a starting point for your metal sign cost.

Where can I order custom brass or aluminum signs? 

At CustomSigns.com, we have a full range of customizable metal signs to choose from to fit your needs! Whether you need a durable aluminum sign or a classic engraved brass plate, we’ve got everything to bring your vision to life.

• Custom brass signs: Heavy-duty bugle brass engraved to your specifications and full-color sublimated brass (printed). Brass is engraved with a diamond-tip rotary engraver.
• Custom aluminum signage: Standard aluminum, UV-printed with UV-laminate (protectant coating) option, ideal for outdoor use.

Browse our full list of metal signs (aluminum and brass options) to start designing your own metal sign today!

Signage has always been an important part of keeping businesses up-to-date and helpful for all who are passing through. From new design trends to various types of sign materials, there is so much that business owners and offices can do to enhance signage. At Custom Signs, our #1 recommendation for creating signage that keeps up with the times while staying functional and easy to navigate are custom acrylic signs!

Is Acrylic Signage Expensive?

The most common question is the most understandable for many businesses: price. Looks aren’t everything when it comes to curating building signage; the price is often the biggest concern, especially for large projects like schools and hospitals.

Understanding the Cost of Acrylic Signs

Thankfully, acrylic signage is affordable and has long been the solution to the cost issues of glass signs. Depending on the size and thickness, acrylic signs can be upwards to 80% more cost-efficient than a glass sign. Acrylic signs have masterfully balanced the elegance of translucent signs with the affordability of plastic signs.

Acrylic can still vary quite a bit in price. Many factors will affect the price of acrylic signs, such as size and thickness. The larger signs need larger and more secure shipping, which will raise prices. Ordering all your signs at once is a good way to cut down on additional shipping costs.

The thickness of your acrylic sign also effects the cost. Depending on specific needs, companies may choose between 1/16″ acrylic or 1/8″ acrylic. The thinner 1/16″ will be great for smaller door signs and room numbers, while the thicker 1/8″ is more durable and better suited for large logo signs and directories.

Is Plexiglass and Acrylic the Same Thing?

Yes, plexiglass and acrylic are the same material. Just like many other brand names have become the colloquial term for a product, the term plexiglass originated from the branded term Plexiglas®. Both acrylic and plexiglass refer to the same plastic material, polymethyl methacrylate, or PMMA.

Although some brands may vary in the manufacturing process, regardless of the term used, you are still going to receive the same reliable product when shopping for acrylic signs.

How Do You Keep Acrylic Signs from Scratching?

Thankfully, acrylic is already a very durable material, but mistakes often happen and signs may get scratched up if not properly cared for. The most appealing part of acrylic is the translucent and clean look, so keeping up with that is always a top priority.

To keep your acrylic from scratching, it is best to handle it with care when transporting or mounting your sign. Wearing gloves will ensure no finger prints are left behind, but you can also use a microfiber cloth to remove any marks after your sign is installed. Regularly cleaning your acrylic sign will ensure it lasts as long as you need.

Protecting Your Acrylic Signs from Scratches

When it comes to scratches, acrylic signs often use a technique called “second surface printing.” This method reverse prints the design on the backside of an acrylic sign, offering additional protection as the ink cannot be scratched off. This method also creates the 3D effect seen in many acrylic signs.

What Is the Best Way to Hang Acrylic Signs?

For a more elevated sign, people often search for mounting options that match the aesthetic. The best option to mount acrylic signs is using aluminum stand-offs, which give a floating effect that does not obstruct the design. To properly install stand-offs, ensure you have the ideal mounting surface, such as a solid, flat wall. Stand-offs cannot be used on windows or flimsy surfaces as they need to be screwed into a wall.

Alternatively, s-hooks, hanging chains, and suction cups with hooks are other cost efficient options that allow for the same visual effect. It is important to consider where the sign will be mounted before making this decision. Smaller signs may best suit hanging chains or suction cups, but for larger signs that will be heavier, stand-offs are your best option.

The New Standard

When creating a custom acrylic sign, aesthetic is often the goal, but there is so much more that we know businesses need to consider. Price, durability, and versatility are all concerns that are answered with acrylic signs! At Custom Signs, we’re here to help you create your signage vision. With various size options and thicknesses, our clear acrylic signs are intended to suit your needs.

At Custom Signs, we’ve spent the past 70 years creating customized products that bring your vision to life. As we celebrate this exciting milestone, we’re reflecting on how we’ve played a role in evolving the world of customization.

Our rich history, strong connections, advanced machinery, unwavering commitment to quality, and efficient shipping set us apart from the competition, making us a leader in the industry.

History

Custom Signs, originally founded as Holmes Stamp & Sign, was first started by Owen Holmes in 1954, right out of his garage in Jacksonville, Florida. Mr. Holmes had a passion for connecting with his community and wanted to give people an easy way to express themselves through personalized products. In the early days, customized products relied on manual processes, and Mr. Holmes’ dedication to quality and personalization laid a strong foundation for the company.

As the business grew, we continuously discovered ways to improve and innovate. In 2009, Bryan Croft took over as CEO, bringing a fresh vision and strategic direction to Custom Signs. Recognizing the potential of the internet, Bryan moved the business online, making it easier for customers nationwide to access our personalized signs. This shift not only expanded our reach but also streamlined our operations and enhanced customer experience.

Machinery

Before modern technology, the production of custom signs relied on manual carving or chemical etching. While effective, these traditional processes were time-consuming and less precise. Manual carving demanded immense skill and patience, often resulting in variations in quality and consistency. Chemical etching involved the use of hazardous substances that posed significant risks to the health and safety of workers. 

The introduction of laser engraving machines revolutionized custom signs production. Unlike older methods, laser engraving allows for intricate designs to be replicated with exceptional accuracy. The speed of laser technology enables rapid production, reducing turnaround times and increasing efficiency. This advancement has not only streamlined manufacturing but also elevated the safety and standard of custom production.

Raising the Bar for Quality

With all of our products made here in the USA, we ensure that only the highest quality products leave our facilities. We have set the standard for what high-quality customized products should look like. Each unique sign undergoes thorough quality check processes:

ADA Signs:

• Tactile lettering is precisely engraved and checked for accuracy.
• Tactile lettering appliqué is carefully applied with uniform depth and clarity.
• Braille dots are correctly embedded into pre-carved holes and scanned for readability.
• Color contrast and consistency is verified to meet ADA standards.
• The sign is reviewed one final time to ensure proper font, spacing, and layout

Brass Signs:

• A diamond-tip rotary tool is used for engraving to achieve clean, sharp lines and intricate details.
• Colored brass signs are sublimated to produce high-resolution and vibrant designs.
• Engraved black text is oxidized with a special solution for durability and enhanced visibility.
• Signs are thoroughly cleaned and can be coated with a UV spray for added protection.

Plastic Signs:

• Laser engraved using advanced Trotec lasers to achieve accurate and detailed designs.
• Colored plastic signs are UV-printed to produce bright colors that wont fade over time.
• Signs are meticulously cleaned to ensure a pristine finish.

Aluminum Signs:

• Made from rust-proof, heavy-duty aluminum for longevity.
• A high-quality vinyl overlay with the design is applied for enhanced graphics and increased durability.
• Optional UV lamination is available for outdoor use to enhance durability.

Nationwide Shipping

While we take pride in our Jacksonville, Florida roots, we wanted people nationwide to have the opportunity to shop our personalized products. To make this possible, we made the shift to our online stores and began shipping to all 50 states. 

From the very beginning, we committed to shipping within two business days, ensuring our delivery driver dispatched orders promptly. Today, with the help of modern technology and our experienced team, we continue to uphold our tradition of super-fast shipping across the country, providing the same reliable and speedy service our customers have come to expect.

Looking Ahead

While we celebrate 70 years of innovation and excellence, we are excited about the future.  We’re aiming for another 7 decades of not only increased connections with our customers and fantastic products, but opening more paths of opportunity and security for our team members. At the time of writing we have had 700 employees come and go since 2012, and have several second generation employees on our staff.

Custom Signs is nothing without the people that keep it running and through continued focus on customer service, innovation, and creating great products.

With our CEO Bryan at the helm, we remain committed to pushing the boundaries of customization, continually enhancing our processes, and expanding our reach. We are grateful to our loyal customers for their trust and support, and we look forward to many more years of helping people express themselves through our high-quality personalized products. Thank you for being part of our journey.