METAL SIGN 
Custom Project 
FLAT CUT ACRYLIC 
METAL CHANNEL LETTERS 
ACRYLIC CHANNEL LETTERS 
PVC FOAM SIGNS 
LED NEON SIGNS 
LIGHTBOX SIGN 
WAYFINDING SIGNS 
CUSTOM SCULPTURE 
Flat Cut Aluminum 
Laser Cut Stainless Steel 
Fabricated Stainless Steel Flat Cut Aluminum
Frequently asked Questions
What are the finishes for Flat Cut Aluminum?
Our Flat Cut Aluminum is available in Painted, Brushed, and Anodized finishing.
Painted Finish
Our painted finish allows you to choose from a wide range of colors available in our Standard Color list. For a personalized touch, we also offer Custom Color options where you can specify a Pantone color code directly on our Instant Quote page.
Brushed Finish
Meanwhile, our brushed finish enhances the texture of the flat-cut aluminum signage to depth and character. This finish provides a tactile appeal and effectively conceals imperfections such as fingerprints and minor marks. This helps make sure that your signage maintains a pristine appearance over time.
The brushed finish has horizontal lines by default, but you may request vertical brushed texture in the comment field of our Instant Quote.
Anodized Finish
Anodized finish is when the aluminum undergoes the process of anodization. This strengthens the metal by creating a protective layer on the surface. We have the Sandblasted Matte Anodized and the Brushed Anodized Aluminum available in 5 colors: Black, Brown, Clear, Gold, and Champagne Gold.
Brushed Anodized
Sandblasted Matte
What is anodization?
Anodization is an electrochemical process that turns the metal surface into a metal oxide layer, which protects the interior metal from oxidizing (or to cause some of the metal to corrode).
For aluminum, the metal is submerged in a sulfuric acid bath and then exposed to an electric charge. This process creates a thick anodic oxide layer, which is also known as anodic aluminum oxide or AAO. This turns the surface into a thicker, corrosion-resistant outer layer that protects the aluminum metal and improves its wear resistance.
What is Clear Anodized Aluminum?
Clear Anodized Aluminum means the aluminum is anodized, but no color pigments were used before the sealant was applied. The term clear is used to describe the transparent nature of the anodized layer.
This means it creates a subtle coating that enhances the aluminum’s natural, silvery finish. Compared to mill or unprocessed aluminum, clear anodized aluminum has a more transparent and shimmery appearance.
Colorization vs. Clear Anodized Finish
Adding color to anodized aluminum is also possible. The anodic aluminum oxide is porous, which means the pores can be filled with colored pigment and seal them to lock in the colors directly to the metal. Due to its chemical bond, the anodized aluminum with color is more long-lasting and won’t chip or scratch, unlike paint finishing.
Take a closer look at our Anodized options:
Sandblasted Matted Anodized
Brushed Anodized
What are the anodized finishing options?
We have two types of Anodized aluminum finishing: the Sandblasted Matte Anodized and the Brushed Anodized Aluminum.
These two offer a distinct look for signage.
Sandblasted Matted Anodized
This finish has a grainy texture. The aluminum surface is bombarded with a high-pressure stream of abrasive material (like sand) to create a rough, matte texture. Afterwards, the metal is anodized.
Brushed Anodized
This creates linear, brushed lines. The aluminum undergoes a mechanical brushing process with fine brushes. This creates a uniform, lined grain pattern on the surface. The anodization happens after the texture is created.
What is the difference between metal laminate vs flat cut/laser cut metal?
Metal Laminate
A thin layer of metal is applied to another material, such as acrylic or PVC foam. It provides a metallic appearance without the weight and cost of solid metal.
Metal Laminate on Acrylic
Metal Laminate on PVC Foam
Advantages:
- Less expensive than solid metal.
- Easier to handle and install.
- Enhances the durability of the base material.
Disadvantages:
- May not withstand heavy use or outdoor conditions.
- Not suitable for thick or dimensional applications.
Flat Cut and Laser Cut Metal
Created by cutting solid metal sheets (stainless steel or aluminum) into specific shapes using a CNC router or laser. This process offers precision and detail.
Flat Cut Aluminum
Laser Cut Stainless Steel
Advantages:
- More durable and highly resistant to weather, wear, and tear.
- Can be cut into any shape or design.
- Provides a high-end look and feel compared to metal laminate.
- More versatile for indoor and outdoor use than metal laminate.
Disadvantages:
- More expensive than metal laminate.
- May require stronger support structures.
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.
Are metal signs suitable for outdoors?
Yes, the signs can be installed outdoors. You may upgrade them for exterior use if you select the additional waterproofing. This guarantees the sign is easy to use on storefronts or doors.
How should I maintain my Metal Signs?
What are your shipping policies & lead times?
