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What Are The Different Types Of Metal Signs?

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

Feature Aluminum Brass
Appearance: White base, UV-LED printed design Golden tone, engraved or printed
Best Use: Outdoor, directional/safety signs Office, decorative, memorial
Durability: 5-10 years outdoors, longer indoors 10-20 years outdoors, longer indoors
Cost: Lower in cost Higher in cost
Thickness: 0.63″ pure aluminum 0.40″ (engraved), 0.20″ (printed)

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.

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

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Do No Soliciting Signs Actually Keep Unwanted Visitors Away?

The importance of having a no soliciting/no trespassing sign:

Imagine getting home from work trying to wind down and relax. Or maybe you just put your child to bed—and suddenly you hear someone knocking on your front door. You would rather not answer the door, so you decide to just ignore the knocking, hoping they go away. Minutes pass by, and the knocking continues. You start to feel a little frustrated by the persistent knocking. 
  
Most of us have experienced the frustration of having strangers come to our door uninvited when we least expect or want them to. Whether it be a salesperson or someone looking to promote a cause, those surprise knocks can really throw you off. 

So how many unwanted visitors does it take before you decide to hang a property sign letting them know they are not welcome on your property? For most people, it’s just too many times! 
  
Most people don’t realize how easy the solution is to this problem. It’s as simple as placing a sign on your business or home. Property signs like “No Soliciting,” “No Trespassing,” and “No Loitering“ aren’t just for show. They’re an effective way to communicate expectations without confrontation, protect your space, and set clear boundaries to reduce unnecessary interruptions. But what do these signs mean, and do they really work?

What does “No soliciting” mean?

A solicitor is someone who goes door-to-door selling or advertising goods, services, or information. Examples of solicitors: salespeople, petitioners, and campaigners. 

  • No soliciting means no one is allowed to come to your business or property with the intent of selling or promoting products or services of any kind.   
  • Examples of soliciting: signing individuals up for subscriptions or collecting donations for a charity or a fundraiser. 
  • Materials used: lightweight industry-standard plastic or large heavy-duty aluminum (great for outdoor use).
  • Design: engraved plastic (laser engraver used) or full-color plastic (UV printing used).

We have an abundance of sign designs you can choose from, like our funny no soliciting signs!

A “No soliciting” sign clearly tells visitors that you are not interested in what they are selling and don’t appreciate those unexpected knocks at your door. 

What does “No trespassing” mean?

  • No trespassing means that no one is allowed to enter or stay on your business, home, or private property without your authorization. 
  • Examples of trespassing: walking across your lawn (especially on private property) without permission, entering a closed or restricted area, and entering gated communities without consent. 
  • Materials used: plastic or aluminum with protective coating to ensure it lasts for a long time outdoors   

A “No trespassing” sign is a legal notice that tells visitors they are not allowed on the property. If they don’t leave, legal action will be taken.

What does “No loitering” mean?

  • No loitering means that no one is allowed to stay and linger on or around your business, home, or property without any real reason. 
  • Examples of loitering: standing outside a specific area for long periods of time, such as a store, a park, or a school. 
  • Materials used: aluminum that features a vinyl overlay that can also have a protective coating added to help outdoor signage last as long as possible.  

A “No loitering” sign reminds visitors they can’t remain in the area for an extended amount of time for no particular reason. 

Do “No Soliciting” signs actually work?

Yes! No soliciting signs can be super effective at discouraging unwanted visitors from coming to your property.  

Do “No soliciting” signs deter all types of solicitors?

Deterrent: In most cases, signs do prevent most types of solicitors from coming to your business or property, as they do want to respect the property owner’s wishes, avoid confrontation, and avoid any sort of legal trouble.
  
Limitations: Some groups, such as religious groups and political canvassers, can be exempted from “no soliciting” rules and walk right past your sign. This is due to local and federal laws such as the First Amendment of protection (freedom of speech). Your property rights still matter, though, and if you tell them to leave, they are legally required to leave. 

How to legally keep someone off your property?

Legal Enforcement: Door-to-door soliciting isn’t illegal in America, but if there is a property sign posted for all to clearly see stating no soliciting/no trespassing, then unwanted visitors will have to leave. If they refuse to leave, they could be charged with fines for trespassing. You also would have the right to contact law enforcement.

Where should I place the signs on my property?

First things first, check your HOA or local laws to see if there are any guidelines for sign placement on your property or business.

Sign placement for effectiveness: The general guideline is to place the sign in an area that is easily visible from all directions. Make sure the sign is not covered by trees, vehicles, mailboxes, etc.

Best places for signs: 

  • Driveway entrance  
  • Front door/front yard   
  • Front-facing window or fence  
  • Larger properties will need to place signs at multiple access points. 

Overall, make sure the sign is placed at an eye-level spot and visible before someone reaches your door.

How can I make my no soliciting sign even more effective?

The effectiveness of a sign depends on visibility, clarity of wording, and tone. Make sure your text is large, readable, and weatherproof. Customize the wording on the sign to clearly state your expectations and wishes for your business or property. 
A well-placed, clear sign helps enforce your rights and protect your peace. Here at CustomSigns.com, we make it easy for you to find or create a sign.

Types of property signs

We have a variety of private property, business, and residential signs. Our signs are made from durable plastic or aluminum materials. They are available in a wide range of different sizes and designs.  

Our collection includes warning signs, notice signs, address signs, and other signs to fit your business or property needs. We also have Beware of Dog, Do Not Enter, and No Parking signs. Check out our page to view our full collection!

Tired of unexpected knocks at your business or home door? Then look no further than here. Browse our website to explore our wide variety of signs and finally stop unwanted visitors from disrupting your peace!

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Why Are Custom Signs Important For Your Business?

Storefront with a Glass Pane Door, a "We're Open Sign" Hangs on the Inside

Custom business signage: why they matter and where to get them

“A business without a sign is a sign of no business.”

– Patrick G. Smith

There is truth behind that quote. If you don’t think your business sign is important, think again! Without a sign (or a well-built one), potential customers won’t be able to find you.

Think about your experience going to a strip mall. There are a variety of stores you can decide to go visit. What’s the first thing you see that influences where you decide to go shop?

The brand’s sign!

You want to compete in the market, but it can be tough to get customers to notice your business when they have multiple options to choose from. That’s where custom signage comes in. A customized sign has plenty of benefits, such as:

  • Professionally tailoring to your brand
  • Establishing your business
  • Building brand credibility and recognition
  • Leaving a long-lasting impression

Custom-made signs are one of the most profitable things you can do for your business. We’ll discuss:

  • Why custom signage is important for your business
  • Why it’s worth the investment
  • Which materials are commonly used/different sign usages
  • Where you can get custom signs for your business

Let’s get into it!

Why should you invest in custom business signs?

Signage can be considered an all-around winner due to its long-term value! Let’s discuss the long-lasting benefits of investing in custom signage! 

Customization For Business

Custom signage gives you complete freedom, allowing you to build a sign how you see fit! You have full control and are able to tailor the design to the personality and messaging of your business.

Each sign can be tailored with your choice of:

  • colors
  • materials
  • logos
  • text to suit any purpose

You can even create signage for other uses like promotions, compliance, and navigation, which improves the customer experience.

Customer Experience

Custom signage helps improve the customer experience. By having clear, branded signage, you will guide and inform your customers on how to navigate through your business space confidently, leaving no room for confusion. This leads to a positive customer journey and seamless experience for anyone visiting your business.

Brand Visibility/Recognition

Custom signage helps boost your:

  • visibility
  • consistency

Through customization, you will use consistent colors, fonts, and logos, which helps create the brand’s voice and reinforce the brand’s identity.

The sign will assist potential customers in recognizing your brand no matter where they are visiting from.

Lasting Investment

Custom signage allows you to compete in the market by helping you stand out in the crowd. Signage is your hardest-working advertiser.

Think about it, your sign doesn’t sleep and stays working for you by consistently providing 24/7 promotion for your business. That sounds like a nice trade of money for time!

Trust (not just a piece of paper, a well-made sign)

Your signage shapes your customer’s first impressions and sets the tone of what they can expect from your business.

Custom business signs build trust by:

  • Setting clear expectations: who you are, what your business does and sells, and when you’re open.
  • Shows you’re legitimate: you’re a real business. Customers won’t have to worry about their safety.
  • Help customers know what to expect: provide navigational clarity and proper labeling.

We’ve gone over the benefits of custom signage and the importance of customization. Let’s discuss the different materials so that you can make the best choice when it comes to choosing where your brand name should be displayed!

What materials are used for custom signs, and what are their uses?

The materials used for custom signs vary from plastic, metal, and vinyl. Let’s discuss the different types for each material.

Here at CustomSigns.com, our plastic signs come in:

  • Acrylic: Clear acrylic or plexiglass, made from durable, high-quality clear acrylic, long-lasting performance, and a clean, polished look.
  • Engraved Plastic: Laser engraved using Trotec printers with a variety of two-tone color options, choose from 40 color combinations.
  • Printed Plastic: UV technology printed for durability in as many colors as you want.

Our custom metal signs come in: 

  • Aluminum: Durable, customized with vinyl overlay that can feature any colors you need.
  • Engraved Brass: Engraved using a diamond-tip rotary to establish a shiny, sleek, and stylish finish.
  • Printed Brass: Sublimated onto the surface with full-color imagery or text, allowing you to add your custom logo.

Our custom vinyl signs can be printed on:

  • Banners: Made of high-quality woven fiber with a gloss finish.
  • Decals: Made with industry standard peel-and-stick vinyl that does not damage surfaces.

We offer a variety of signs to fit your needs, whether it be for business or for your personal use as well. You can choose from:

We even offer custom stencils! 

Where can you order custom signs for your business?

We’re so glad you asked! Here at CustomSigns.com, we specialize in helping your vision come to life on any one of our customizable signs to fit your needs! Investing in a custom sign could be the boost your business needs! Don’t let your business go unseen! Shop our customizable signs now to start seeing your investment pay off!