Sacramento, CA – Sign Making 101: Aluminum as a Substrate | Sign Company News

Aluminum is used for many applications, from siding and gutters to window frames and doors. It’s also an ideal material for signs.

Why Aluminum is Ideal for Signs

• Durable: Aluminum is a very strong metal. It’s resistant to denting, scratching, and corrosion.
• Weather Resistant: Aluminum is weather resistant. Signs made from aluminum will withstand high winds, rain, and snow. Plus, they won’t fade in the sun.
• Lightweight: Despite its strength, aluminum is a very lightweight metal. This makes it easy to work with and transport.
• Professional Appearance: Aluminum has a clean, professional appearance. Signs made from this material give businesses a polished look.
• Won’t Rust: It’s not susceptible to rust, so your signs will mostly likely continue to look great for many years.
• Environmentally Friendly: Aluminum is a recyclable material.

How Aluminum Signs are Made

The process starts with heavy rolls of aluminum which are fed into a machine that cuts it to size. Once the aluminum is the correct size, it’s fed into a computer-controlled router. The router cuts the design into the aluminum.

After the design is cut, the aluminum is then sandblasted, this creates a matte finish. Finally, the sign is painted with a colored powder coating or a clear protective sealant. This step protects the metal from weathering and provides a long-lasting finish.

How are Graphics Installed on Signs

Graphics are ‘printed’ on aluminum signs with a process called sublimation. This involves printing the design onto a special transfer paper. The paper is then placed on the aluminum panel and heated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. As the panel heats up, the inks on the paper vaporize and bond with the metal. This makes a permanent image perfectly bonded to the aluminum which won’t peel or fade.

This process is ideal for producing signs with complex graphics or photographs.

Types of Finishes for Aluminum Signs

1. Anodized finishes are the most popular choice for aluminum signs. This type of finish adds a durable, protective coating on the metal.
2. Brushed finishes have a textured surface perfect for achieving a sophisticated look. It resembles brushed stainless steel.
3. Mirror finishes are just what they sound like – they feature a highly reflective surface.

Illumination Options

Lighting elements can be added to aluminum sign to add visual interest and make the sign visible at night.

LED lighting is the most popular choice in lighting for many reasons including they are very energy efficient, the bulbs and other components last for a very long time, they burn brighter than other lighting options, and they generally do a better job generating customers.

At FASTSIGNS® of Sacramento/Natomas Airport Area, CA, we will make the perfect sign package for your business. Contact us today or drop by our sign shop.