Fabricated Stainless Steel 

Frequently asked Questions

What's the difference between Laser Cut Metal vs Fabricated Metal Signs?

Fabricated Metal

Laser Cut Metal

Fabricated metal signs are crafted by assembling various metal parts to form a three-dimensional sign. This method involves welding, bending, and shaping metal pieces, which are then put together to create a robust and intricate design. This means the inside of the fabricated metal is hollow.

In contrast, Laser Cut metal signs, such as our Stainless Steel, are created using a simpler construction method. Designs are cut from a solid sheet of metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel, using precision lasers. This process allows for highly detailed and intricate patterns that form a flatter, two-dimensional appearance.

What is the difference between 304 Stainless Steel and 316 Stainless Steel?

Understanding the differences between our two stainless steel grades is crucial for signage creation. Both 304 and 316 stainless steel offer advantages depending on environmental factors and application requirements. It’s also important to remember that 304 and 316 Stainless Steel do not have distinct visual differences.

304 STAINLESS STEEL

Offers good corrosion resistance in most environments, but it may corrode in chloride-rich environments such as coastal areas or proximity to industrial operations.

Application: Suitable for a wide range of indoor and outdoor signage applications where moderate corrosion resistance is required. This can be for urban business establishments, shopping centers, and other commercial districts.

316 STAINLESS STEEL

Provides superior corrosion resistance compared to 304, especially in harsh environments like marine settings or areas with high chloride exposure. This material is more expensive than 304 stainless steel. 

Application: This choice is more robust than 304 stainless steel. It is preferred for signage in coastal areas such as beachfront hotels and restaurants, recreational activity areas for swimming or diving, and industrial facilities.

How corrosion resistant are aluminum and stainless steel?

Aluminum

Aluminum is a versatile and lightweight metal commonly used in various applications due to its durability and resistance to corrosion. Its resistance to wear can be further enhanced through anodization, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is renowned for its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion, making it a popular choice for various applications. It contains chromium, which provides its corrosion-resistant properties. Stainless steel is available in several alloys, with 304 and 316 being the most common.

304 Stainless Steel: The most common type of stainless steel. It provides good corrosion resistance.

316 Stainless Steel: Greater corrosion resistance than 304 and is a more expensive option, but it lasts longer and rusts less.

Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between aluminum and stainless steel depends on environmental conditions, desired appearance, and budget.

Stainless steel is preferable in northern regions due to its ability to withstand harsh winters and maintain its appearance. Stainless steel, particularly the 316 alloy, provides superior corrosion resistance and longevity, especially for coastal areas, making it a better choice for harsher climates.

Aluminum offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability. If you’re in an area far from the beach or you need more lightweight signage, this metal is a good option for your establishment.

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What are the finishing options for Fabricated Metal Signs? 

The Fabricated Stainless Steel has two finishing options: Painted and Metal.

PAINTED FINISH

The painted finish can come in white, black, or any custom color. You may choose from the Standard Color list or send us a custom Pantone color code. 

METAL FINISH

We also have metal finishes in brushed finish. The brushed finish has a textured look and feel, while the polished finish features a glossy and mirror finish. 

Styles for metal include Stainless Steel, Electroplated Gold, Electroplated Bronze, Electroplated Red Copper, and Electroplated Black Titanium.

What are the metal brushed finishes for Fabricated Stainless Steel?

This style resists fingerprints and minor scratches while providing durability and resistance to wear and tear. Brushed finishes make a good sign for various industries including law firms, banks, corporate offices, tech companies, and more.

The Fabricated Stainless Steel has five brushed metal finishes. This selection includes:

Electroplated Bronze, Stainless Steel, Electroplated Black Titanium, Electroplated Gold

Electroplated Red Copper

Why use PVC backing for Fabricated Stainless Steel?

We offer PVC backing, the second most popular choice for Fabricated Stainless Steel mounting option. This backing provides a plain surface where the client can easily glue or tape the sign to the installation surface.

Does the PVC backing affect the overall appearance of Fabricated Stainless Steel signage?

Left: PVC Backing | Right: No backing

PVC backing does not alter the appearance of the Stainless Steel sign. It provides a discreet and functional backing that ensures secure installation while maintaining the sleek and professional look of the sign.

How can I install a sign using PVC Backer?

Related: What are the ways to install a Fabricated Stainless Steel signage?

What are the ways to install a Fabricated Stainless Steel signage?

Stud Mount Installation

This is the most popular installation option for Fabricated Stainless Steel.

  • Drill holes in the wall or surface where the letters will go.
  • You can glue the letters directly to the surface to make them stick.
  • If the back of the wall is accessible (like behind a raceway), you can use nuts to tighten the screws from behind, securely holding the letters in place. 
    • A raceway is typically used for larger signs, as its use depends heavily on the size and weight of the sign.

PVC Backer Installation

This is the second most popular installation option for Fabricated Stainless Steel

  • If the sign is small and it’s going indoors, you can just use glue to stick the letters directly onto the wall or surface. No need for screws or special tools.
  • If the letters are big and you can’t attach them using screws from the back, just nail the PVC backing panel onto the wall or mounting base first. Then you can put the letters on that.
  • Fasten the metal letters to the PVC backer using the pre-drilled holes on the sides (returns) of the Fabricated letters. 

Alternative to Back Mount Installation

  • If mounting from the back is too difficult, we can use a 1-inch-thick PVC base behind each letter. First, nail the PVC base to the wall. 
  • Then, screw the metal letters onto the PVC from the sides, using holes on the sides (return) of the letters. 

What are your shipping policies & lead times?

SHIPPING 

By default, we do standard shipping but you may opt for expedited shipping upon request. Please note that we do not offer free shipping. 

LEAD TIME

The lead time for custom signage depends on the complexity of your request. Meanwhile, all our products come with a standard lead time of 2 business weeks

Category Details Time Frame
Standard Lead Time Minimum Production Time 2-4 Weeks Production + Shipping Days
Maximum Production Time 4 Weeks Production + Shipping Days
Additional Lead Time For orders with metal electroplating or anodizing 2-4 Weeks (Standard Production) + 1 Additional Week (For Production) + Shipping Days
Standard Shipping BC Clients (Lower Mainland) 2-3 Business Days
Outside BC (Canada & US Wide) 3-8 Business Days
Expedited Shipping Canada & US Wide 2-3 Business Days

HOLIDAY SHIPPING

Due to increased seasonal demand, our shipping timelines may experience temporary delays every mid-December through the end of the year. Our team is minimizing any disruptions to your orders.

You may contact our customer support team if you have any specific concerns about pending or upcoming orders

WHERE WE SHIP

We only ship our products to Canada and the US. 

OUR HEADQUARTERS

A308 – 4899 Vanguard Road, Richmond, BC, V6X 0W5 Canada