What should I know about aluminum finishes?
When ordering aluminum letters and logos, it is important to note the finish and its appearance.
Caution: We do not recommend installing aluminum in coastal or other humid climates. Installing aluminum in coastal or humid climates will lead to corrosion over time and change the sign's appearance. If an aluminum sign is requested for a coastal area installation, consider an anodized aluminum finish, which provides more durability.
Note: To protect stucco installation surfaces from any chemical reaction with metal letters, we recommend using standoffs. Standoffs create a gap between the letters and the stucco surface, preventing any material from bleeding onto the installation surface.
Anodized Aluminum
Anodizing is an electrochemical process that modifies the aluminum surface into a decorative, durable finish. Anodized letters and logos create weather-resistant and UV-resistant letters that will not crack or peel. Gemini anodizes letters and logos in the same order together to ensure color consistency and delivery. Max. one piece: 46.5" x 84"
Note: Colors may vary slightly from order to order.
Painted Aluminum
Painted aluminum letters and logos will be brushed and bead-blasted to remove any imperfections before painting. The metal grain direction will be visible through the paint when viewed up close. In typical installation conditions, the metal grain direction will be very subtle or unnoticeable to a passerby.
Note: If you are concerned about a visible metal grain, include a note in your quote or order.
Polished Aluminum
Aluminum letters and logos can be polished to a smooth glossy luster. By our standard manufacturing process, polished aluminum letters and logos will have bead-blasted returns with a polished face finish. The metal will have a mirror-like appearance, but grit lines may show when viewed at certain angles and up close at eye level. Grit lines will not be visible once the sign is installed.
Note: Polished aluminum requires letters and logos to be a minimum of 1/8 inch thick with a 1/2 inch stroke, requiring a welded stud mount. Restrictions may apply to letters and logos over 24 inches tall.
More about Letters and Logos
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