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.
