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The Appeal of Custom Metal Signs

January 8, 2020

When you look at all the different signs in your neighborhood, you’ll notice quite a wide variety of sign-making materials. Plastic signs are more common in indoor settings, while metal signs are better at surviving outdoor condtions. Here are some of the key reasons why you may choose custom metal signs.

Main Advantages of Metal Signs

Metal signs simply have more longevity due to their strong material that can withstand adverse weather conditions. One of the weaknesses of certain metals is that they can rust with exposure to moisture, but this isn’t true of aluminum. Typical outdoor signs are constructed like a sandwich, with two outer aluminum layers and a thick plastic core in between.

Aluminum is commonly used for outdoor signs because it’s lightweight, making it easy to transport and to cut into any shape. That’s a big reason why it’s a popular choice for customized signs. Additionally, aluminum signs with coating are fade-resistant and are easy to install. Drilling holes into aluminum for mounting purposes is not a hassle.

One of the key reasons that city governments use aluminum for street signs is that they don’t have to be replaced as often. Most outdoor signs have the problem of fading over time due to exposure to UV rays, but the protective coating applied to aluminum signs provides a longer lifespan.

Easy Printing

Another advantage to metal is that it’s conducive for print and can be used for printing on both sides. Signmakers typically use UV ink that adds to the sign’s longevity. While other materials have their places in indoor or outdoor environments, metal signs are useful for traffic control, stores and building exteriors.

If your sign calls for screen printing, aluminum is still a great choice. It’s an ideal material for custom printing, even if it involves adding colored vinyl lettering or other decor. Dyes embedded into the coating not only last for years on aluminum, they can project a shiny appearance as well. An assortment of dark and light aluminum dyes work well on signs as well as machine parts, jewelry and other metal applications.

Strength and Thickness

Metal such as aluminum, has amazing strength, even in thin plates. The thinnest signs, which may have a .04 gauge thickness, can still outlast plastic or wooden signs. Real estate signs often use this gauge, whereas stop signs tend to have .08 gauge and the thickest metal signs use .125 gauge. Ultimately, the thicker the metal, the stronger it will be and the longer it will last.

Conclusion

Metal, particularly aluminum, is a top choice for outdoor signs due to strength, durability, and flexibility. Contact Zumar at our Arizona, California or Washington location for more information on custom metal signs.

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