Get Your Shine On! 5 Reasons Aluminum Outshines the Competition
Aluminum is one of the most popular materials in the sign industry. That’s probably not news to you. Aluminum signs can be found almost anywhere. However, what may be news to you, is how it measures up to other materials. When compared to substrates like wood, plastic, and even most composite materials, aluminum outshines the competition, in more ways than one.
Here are the 5 ways aluminum outshines the competition:
- It’s one of the strongest materials in the sign industry – Aluminum is known for its strength and rigidity. Even though it is thin and incredibly lightweight, it’s strong, and the thicker it is, the greater the panel strength. It comes in primarily 5 thicknesses, but three of them are most common. Thin, small signs (like real estate signage) are typically made with the .040 gauge thickness. Sturdier street signs, (like your neighborhood stop signs) are made with the .080 gauge aluminum. The thickest and strongest gauge, .125, is reserved for heavy duty signs (such as the hazardous materials or evacuation signs at construction sites). When you need a sign material that is rock solid – one that won’t split, warp, bow, or shatter – aluminum is an excellent choice.
- It’s remarkably affordable – For the level of sturdiness and longevity, you would expect this sign material to be one of the most expensive. It’s not. In fact, it’s one of the least expensive sign materials out there. When compared to substrates like redwood and even some plastics, aluminum continues to beat out the competition with respect to pricing. It’s strong, durable and affordable – a rare combination to come by.
- It gives a very professional finish – In this case, affordable doesn’t mean cheap. Aluminum signage might not cost a fortune, but it certainly can look like it did. Metal finishes typically give a very classy, professional look. Whether it’s a brushed, polished or mirrored finish, aluminum signs stand out. For this reason, it’s often seen in professional offices. For example, attorneys’ offices, courtrooms, higher education facilities, etc. The shiny, metallic finish is both timeless and contemporary.
- It’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor use – Acrylic and PVC are not recommended for outdoor signage, however, aluminum is. And, although most types of wood can be mounted both indoor and outdoor, not all of them can hold up to extreme weather without treatment and edge-capping. Aluminum is perfect for both indoor and outdoor signage. Outdoors, it’s rustproof and waterproof, and therefore weather-resistant. That’s why it is the ideal substrate for street signs. Aluminum will last many years without the material breaking down or failing. This cannot be said for plastic or wood. And, indoors, where there’s no concern about the effects of sunlight or inclement weather, aluminum will last for decades. It’s extremely versatile.
- It’s super easy to customize – Need to screen print on top of aluminum? No problem. Need to apply colored vinyl lettering or decals to it? No problem. Want to custom cut it into a unique shape or do specialized cutouts? Again, no problem. Aluminum is exceptionally easy to customize. You can give your signage a lot of personality by adding just a little touch creativity. Aluminum is the ideal canvas for all of your great ideas.
There are numerous benefits of choosing aluminum for your signage. The strength, weather resistance, and affordability make it ideal for many of our customers. And, that metallic, professional exterior with custom design makes it appealing to your customers. It’s a win-win situation with aluminum! When compared to other substrates, it steals the limelight.
