Projects · Real cases
Custom-made metal signs for public buildings
Description
When a building needs its own exterior signage, a standard sign is often not enough. The size of the façade, the identity of the building or the design itself may call for a solution made specifically for the project.
Making metal signs to measure means different materials, thicknesses, shapes and finishes can be combined to create signage that belongs to the architecture. Painted aluminium, stainless steel, folded lettering and laser cutting each open up different options, from large-format signs to smaller lettering and identification elements.
This project combined those techniques to produce the metal signage for a municipal library: a main aluminium sign and a second stainless steel sign installed at the building entrance.
The project
To identify the library, a 5 mm aluminium sign was made with a textured RAL 8017 painted finish. The letters were made from the same sheet, with their lower edge folded to form the support and mounting system, so that every element is part of a single piece.
At the building entrance, a second sign was made and installed in brushed stainless steel, combining several customisation techniques. The design brings together cut-out letters and laser-marked elements, creating different textures and levels of reading within the same sign.
The result is a set of bespoke metal signs that keeps the same visual identity at different points of the building, with each piece adapted to its location and purpose.
Applications
• Custom-made metal signs for public buildings and municipal facilities.
• Exterior signage for libraries, cultural centres and sports facilities.
• Identification signs for town halls, schools and educational centres.
• Signs for building façades and entrances.
• Painted aluminium signs for outdoor use.
• Stainless steel signs for entrances and façades.
• Folded metal lettering and built-up letters.
• Laser-cut text, logos and graphics.
• Laser marking on aluminium, steel and other metals.
• Custom corporate and institutional signage.
• Different materials and finishes combined in a single project.
• Signs made to the dimensions, design and installation each project requires.
Frequently asked questions
Which material is best for an exterior sign?
It depends on the use, the setting and the finish you are after:
• Aluminium: light, corrosion resistant and very versatile. It can be painted in any RAL colour and finish, including textured ones, and is a good choice for exterior signs.
• Stainless steel: very strong, with a more technical or elegant look. It takes brushed, polished and other decorative finishes, and works especially well for entrances and façades.
• Mild or carbon steel: sturdy and versatile, with great freedom of shapes and thicknesses. It needs protecting with a paint system or another suitable finish.
• Corten steel: stands out for its natural look and characteristic rust tone. It is particularly suited to blending a sign into architectural, landscape or industrial settings.
How is a metal sign fixed to a façade?
The fixing method depends on the size and weight of the sign and on the type of wall or façade it goes on. Different anchoring systems can be used, with the fixings either visible or built into the design of the sign. If you are not sure which system suits your project, get in touch and we will advise you on the best manufacturing and installation solution.
What finishes can be applied to metal signs?
The range of finishes is very wide and depends on the material chosen and the effect you want. Aluminium and mild steel can be painted in any RAL colour, with smooth, textured or other special finishes. Stainless steel can be brushed or polished, while corten steel brings its characteristic natural tone and texture.
Materials, colours, thicknesses and finishes can also be combined within a single sign for a more personalised result. If you are unsure which material or finish is right, get in touch and we will help you define the best option for your project.
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