Signage is one of the most basic and indispensable forms of advertising. Ever since an ancient blacksmith first thought to hang a horseshoe outside his hut, businesses have been using custom metal signs to advertise themselves. Over the years, more and more materials have become available, but the principle remains the same: hang a sign that tells people what you do, with an eye-catching, easy-to-read design.
The trick is matching the right material to the right job. Smart choice in materials will allow you to create cost-effective custom signage that will fulfill its role.
Choosing Your Signs Based on Usage and Material
- Aluminum
When you want a sign that will last for years, indoors or outdoors, aluminum is almost always the best option. When powder-coated in color, custom metal signs made of aluminum are nearly indestructible and capable of handling the elements without fading. Combined with the ease of working with aluminum, and how relatively lightweight it is, aluminum is a great all-around sign material.
- Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is another highly popular material, particularly if you want a reflective effect. Steel, however, is both more expensive and heavier than aluminum, so some thought and planning is needed here. Steel is also a common component in 3D signs. When stacked with aluminum, it can help create a variety of extremely eye-catching and creative multi-dimensional shapes.
- Acrylic
Acrylic is relatively inexpensive, easy to cut, and is available in a huge array or colors. While not particularly good for the outdoors, it can make a nice addition to indoor offices and light manufacturing facilities
- Corrugated Plastic
Corrugated plastic is the most typical go-to when you need a sign that looks nice but isn’t going to be around for very long—usually only a few days or perhaps a couple of weeks. It’s inexpensive, and very lightweight, but also highly susceptible to damage. One typical use is advertising homes for sale on front lawns. Another is as a “directional,” showing people where to walk, park, etc. at outdoor events.
- Vinyl Banners
When you only need a sign for a few days, such as for a trade show or county fair, vinyl is usually the right call. Printed banners are relatively inexpensive to make, but they have very short useful lives. In particular, they can be ripped to shreds by inclement weather. Never use vinyl as a substitute for more durable metal options.
Precision Cutting Service Will Create the Custom Metal Signs You Need
Our water jet cutting system is capable of incredible precision, and because it makes a super-smooth cut every time, there’s no finishing or rework needed. We can also work with a huge range of materials, including steel, aluminum, and acrylic, to name a few.
Contact us to consult on your custom cut signage.
