City Signs was recently contracted by a third party sign company to install a set of Acrylic FCOs at Aryzta, a baked goods company in Stockton, CA. If unfamiliar, FCO stands for Flat Cut Out, letters or logos that are cut from acrylic material. These signs can be small or large in size and are typically cut from a machine called a router using 1/2 inch and 1/4 inch acrylic material. Other thicknesses can be used depending on the size of the project, but most often you will find that FCOs use these two standard sizes. Once the letters are cut, they are sanded and painted to match the desired color. Another option for color is vinyl graphics. They can be applied directly to the faces of the logos or letters being used. Once finalized, holes are drilled into the back of the letters and studs are placed there for installation. At the installation site, holes are drilled using a pattern into the wall or area where the sign will be. The pattern is then ripped away leaving an area with holes to match where the studs on the letters will be placed. Along with being held by studs, silicone is also applied to the letters as an adhesive for extra support.
1/4 inch letters require a slightly different installation process because they are too small for studs. They are applied to surfaces using a double sided adhesive tape similar to what you would find at a grocery store. Most FCO sets are installed flush to the wall, which means there is little to zero space between the letters and wall. However, FCOs can be installed with spacers which “float” the letters off of the wall by about 1/2 inch. Though this process is common for smaller letters and logos, it is not the standard way to install them.
City Signs worked alongside a third party sign company for the job at Aryzta. The letters were produced and shipped to us, and we were in charge of the installation. These letter sets were installed high up in a stairwell at the Aryzta building. A sign this high up is either installed using ladders or if possible, a scissor lift which is rented and delivered on site for use.
Is your business interested in the possibility of using Acrylic FCOs? Please give us a call at City Signs today [209.549.2412] and we can give you more details and information about the best sign option for you!
