Metal signs have a reputation as a long-lasting communication tool presented in a timeless style. If you’re searching for “metal signs near me” and are ready to explore these products' design, fabrication, and applications, this guide will provide an extensive overview.
Chapter 1: Understanding Metal Signs
1.1 What Are Metal Signs?
Metal signs are crafted from materials, such as aluminum, brass, or copper. Indoors, these signs are used for wayfinding, office signage, and lobby signs. As an exterior signage option, custom metal signs make effective storefront, address, street, and construction signs.
The versatility and durability of these signs proves they are an appealing option for many industries.
1.2 Advantages of Metal Signs
The enduring popularity of metal signs results from their effective marketing properties and the key advantages they offer over other types of signage. The benefits of these signs include:
- Longevity: Metal is one of the most durable options available compared to other signage materials. With proper care and maintenance, these signs can last up to 10 years, providing businesses with a valuable, long-term marketing investment.
- Resistance to the Elements: Materials like aluminum and stainless steel are waterproof and can be treated to resist rust. For businesses located in areas that see varied weather patterns, these signs will withstand the elements to fulfill long-term goals.
- Customization: With metal signs, selecting every detail and crafting a sign that fits your unique vision is possible. Professional sign makers can engrave, emboss, create laser-cut designs, or add lighting systems to metal signs. To explore all the customization features, contact your local sign company.
Chapter 2: Designing Metal Signs
2.1 Design Principles for Metal Signs
When you partner with a professional sign maker, their team of experts will collaborate with you on the look and functionality of your sign. Ensuring that the sign’s look aligns with your intended message is important. For an impactful and effective metal sign, keep these design elements at the forefront:
- Layout: Ensure your sign’s message is clear and coherent by organizing the sign’s content into a compelling layout. A designer can guide you in grouping essential information and delivering a compelling message to anyone who sees the sign. With signs, it is best to keep the purpose focused to eliminate unnecessary clutter.
- Typography: Since many metal signs incorporate embossing or engraving, proper typography is essential for legibility. Work with a design expert to select the font style, size, and text arrangement that results in a functional and visually appealing communication tool.
- Color Choices: Sign makers can print a rainbow of colors on metal signs. The key to selecting colors for these signs is ensuring enough contrast between the background and text colors. Otherwise, the sign will be challenging for people to understand, especially from a distance. Since metal can have a glossy finish, it might be necessary to adjust color selections to ensure the sign remains visible in different lighting conditions.
2.2 Customization and Branding
Custom metal signs play a crucial role in building a brand’s identity. These signs are ideal for long-term branding tools, including storefront, lobby, and office signs to establish and strengthen a business’s identity.
When designing a custom sign, businesses must include their existing branding components, such as logos, fonts, and colors. This will create a strong and recognizable brand image that customers will choose over competitors.
Chapter 3: Fabrication of Metal Signs
3.1 Materials for Metal Signs
A critical step in the fabrication process is selecting the material that will be used to manufacture the sign. Metal signs are usually crafted from the following metals or composites:
- Aluminum: This flexible but durable metal is suitable for a wide range of sign types at an affordable price point. Aluminum can withstand extreme weather conditions, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor signage.
- Stainless Steel: With the ability to stay looking fresh for years, coated stainless steel won’t succumb to damage from rust or corrosion. These signs provide businesses with a reliable signage solution.
- Alumalite: This composite material contains a corrugated plastic core sandwiched between two aluminum sheets to create a strong signage material used for real estate and post and panel signs.
- Dibond: This alternative aluminum composite material is used to create customizable signage, including yard and real estate signs.
- Brass: This premium material adds sophistication to any space. Brass can be engraved or embossed with lettering or images to create a long-lasting message.
3.2 Fabrication Techniques
The fabrication techniques used to make metal signs can vary depending on the type of sign, the customization options, and the metal being used. Here are the most common manufacturing techniques for metal signs:
- Laser-Cut Signs: With a highly concentrated beam, we melt metal so that it can be cut to size or embellished with a design. Laser engravers can add custom text or graphics to the metal’s surface.
- Embossed Signs: The sign’s design is printed on roller dies. As the roller die stamps the metal’s surface, heat and pressure imprint the design onto sheet metal to create a raised texture.
- Channel and Dimensional Letters: These three-dimensional signs are made from aluminum sheeting. Laser and CNC cutting technology creates the face, return, and back of the sign letters. These components are assembled using a trim cap and liquid bonding agent to complete the dimensional appearance.
3.3 Metal Sign Illumination
Today’s modern LED systems enhance the visibility and aesthetics of lighted metal signs. The most common illumination seen in metal signage is back-lit dimensional letters. For these signs, individual, hollow 3D letters are crafted from aluminum, allowing bright, energy-efficient LED lights to be integrated inside. The lights are installed at the back of the letter and flood the area behind the sign with light when activated. The result is a light halo that outlines each letter's shape to provide increased visibility from afar.
Other lighting options include installing an emblem or angled shades above storefront signs. These spotlights jut out from a building’s exterior and have a gooseneck design that angles the light toward the sign. These lights can be outfitted with LED bulbs for bright and energy-efficient lighting.
Chapter 4: Outdoor and Indoor Applications
4.1 Outdoor Metal Signs for Businesses
Custom outdoor metal signs are practical tools for business branding and visibility. Successful outdoor applications of metal signs include:
- Dimensional Letters: If you want to make a professional and refined image for your business, metal dimensional letters are the answer. These signs have enhanced definition and depth that easily catches the attention of passersby. Lighting options can optimize the visibility of these signs even further.
- Hanging Signs: Metal hanging signs are a classic addition to any business. Install these signs over high-traffic areas to direct pedestrians and passing vehicles to your business’s entrance.
- Address Signs and Plaques: Create a stress-free wayfinding experience for customers with a prominent and everlasting address sign. These signs clearly identify your location to help customers, delivery personnel, and first responders.
4.2 Indoor Metal Signs for Decor and Direction
Whether you want to add one sign or outfit your entire space, metal signage is a practical and decorative choice for interior environments. Some creative ideas include:
- Lobby Signs: Establish your brand’s location while creating a welcoming environment for guests with custom metal lobby signs. These signs can come in the form of dimensional letters or wall signs.
- Wayfinding Signs: Even though wayfinding signs serve a practical purpose, metal contributes to a polished visual atmosphere. These signs can be printed with additional branding for a cohesive look.
- Office Signs: From door plaques to office directories, there’s a metal sign to suit every need in your company’s office. Work with a professional signage company to develop a comprehensive strategy for your interior signs.
4.3 Metal Signs in Marketing and Promotion
For marketing and promotional uses, alumalite and dibond signs are ideal. These metal composites can create yard, real estate, and post and panel signs. Use these signs to highlight short-term business promotions, store openings, or sale and leasing opportunities in the local real estate market.
Chapter 5: Metal Sign Installation and Maintenance
5.1 Installation Techniques
For large custom metal signs, outdoor installation needs to be handled by a professional sign company. Experts can access specialized tools like bucket trucks to secure these signs safely. A full-service sign company can also wire and install lighted metal signs for your business.
A professional sign company is also recommended when installing metal wall signs to ensure the correct fasteners and drill bits are used for the installation surface. Installation techniques will vary depending on whether the surface is drywall, brick, or block.
5.2 Sign Maintenance and Longevity
Metal signs for businesses require minimal maintenance and will offer businesses years of signage solutions. However, to keep your sign looking pristine, follow these tips for routine cleaning and repairs:
- Cleaning: Dust your signs regularly with a soft microfiber cloth to minimize build-up. Metal signs can be cleaned a few times a year or as needed if there is noticeable dirt and grime. Use a microfiber cloth, warm water, and mild soap to gently clean the sign. Scrub pads and harsh chemicals are not recommended, as they can damage the sign’s finish.
- Repairing Scratches: If you notice scratches on your metal sign, you can minimize their appearance by using a small amount of car wax. Apply the wax to the sign and buff the area with a soft cloth. To reduce the chances of scratches, install your sign away from doors or other hard objects that could hit the sign.
- Rust Prevention: Most metal used for signage is resistant to rust. However, professional sign makers advise using a preventative sealant to maintain your sign’s shine.
Chapter 6: Cost and Budgeting for Metal Signs
6.1 Factors Influencing Costs
When assessing the cost of custom metal signs, it is vital to consider their role in your business’s long-term advertising strategy. A one-time investment will result in years of marketing potential. Mass-produced, cheap metal signs are available to purchase in stores and online, but these signs won’t last long before they start degrading.
The exact price of a professional metal sign depends on many factors, including the sign’s size, material, and customization options. In general, aluminum signs are the most economical choice because they are lightweight, durable, and readily available. Metals such as brass, copper, and bronze are considered premium options and are more costly. A professional sign company can work with your budget to find an affordable metal sign that aligns with your business goals.
6.2 Cost-Effective Solutions
If you want to include the timeless look of metal signs in your business but are working within a budget, aluminum signs are the best option. These signs offer a wide range of customization options and provide businesses with long-lasting signage. Even though aluminum makes high-quality signage, it is not considered a premium metal like brass or copper, resulting in a more accessible price point.
Chapter 7: Regulations and Permits
7.1 Sign Permits and Compliance
Local municipalities require permits to approve the content of outdoor metal signs for business. Permits also ensure the sign’s installation follows all the necessary building and safety codes. The sign permit process involves filling out an application online or through the mail that outlines specific details about your sign and its proposed location.
A professional sign company like Priority Signs & Graphics can guide businesses through this process and provide the required information for swift approval.
7.2 ADA Compliance and Accessibility
Because of their versatility, especially in interior spaces, metal signs are suitable to meet the requirements set out by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). As ADA-compliant signage, metal signs can be installed outside permanent rooms or areas to identify these spaces for people with various impairments.
A professional sign company can explain all the specific requirements for ADA signs, but some aspects to consider when designing metal ADA signs are:
- A non-glare finish
- A high level of contrast between the background and text color
- Specific fonts and character qualities that enhance legibility, including stroke thickness and spacing
- Braille and tactile elements
- Universal accessibility symbols
Chapter 8: Conclusion and Next Steps
8.1 Key Takeaways
Metal signs have a wide variety of applications across diverse industries. From residences to corporate offices to niche industries, these signs are a sturdy choice that make a positive and long-lasting impact. Partnering with Priority Signs & Graphics for metal signs in Fort Worth, TX, is essential to gain all the benefits these signs offer. Their team of experts will guarantee your signage project's effective design and quality fabrication.
If you’re searching for “custom metal signs near me,” give Priority Signs & Graphics a call to book your consultation today.
