Installing a metal sign on a commercial building is more than just putting your logo on display—it’s about creating a strong first impression that draws attention, builds trust, and reinforces your brand identity. But before you break out the drill or call a contractor, it’s important to understand the right steps and materials required to properly hang your metal signage.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what’s involved in the process, the key considerations to keep in mind, and why professional installation is often the best route for lasting results.
Step 1: Evaluate the Building Surface
The first and most important step in hanging a metal sign is assessing the surface of your commercial building. Different materials will affect the tools and hardware you’ll need.
-
Brick or Masonry: Requires masonry anchors or expansion bolts.
-
Concrete: May require concrete anchors or epoxy-based fasteners.
-
Stucco or EIFS: Needs special fasteners that won’t damage the soft surface.
-
Metal Siding: May involve self-tapping screws or bolts with sealing washers.
A proper evaluation ensures that the sign stays secure and doesn’t damage the building exterior.
Step 2: Choose the Right Mounting Method
There are several mounting options depending on the sign design, weight, and desired appearance:
Stud Mounting
Stud mounting uses threaded rods (studs) welded to the back of the sign that insert into pre-drilled holes in the wall. This is common for dimensional letters or metal logos. The studs are secured with adhesive or anchors inside the wall.
Rail or Frame Mounting
For larger metal panels, a mounting frame or rail system can distribute the weight more evenly and allow for easier adjustment during installation.
Direct Mounting
Flat metal signs can sometimes be mounted directly with screws or bolts through the face of the sign into the building. These often use decorative caps to hide the screw heads for a clean look.
Step 3: Check Local Codes & Property Guidelines
Before drilling into any building, it’s critical to:
-
Review local ordinances: Cities and villages often have rules regarding sign size, placement, lighting, and materials.
-
Get proper permits: Failing to get approval may result in fines or required removal.
-
Check lease or landlord requirements: If you rent, there may be rules about what type of signage is allowed.
Skipping this step can lead to delays or legal issues, so make sure all approvals are in place before proceeding.
Step 4: Prepare the Sign and Mounting Hardware
Once approvals are handled, you’ll want to prep the materials:
-
Ensure the sign is clean and all hardware is accounted for.
-
If your sign uses LED lighting, make sure power access is planned.
-
Layout the sign on the ground or mark the wall using a paper template or leveling guide to align everything perfectly.
Precision is key—any misalignment will be highly visible once the sign is installed.
Step 5: Install with Precision and Safety
Installation often involves working at height with ladders or scaffolding, heavy materials, and power tools. Here are a few tips:
-
Use anchors rated for the building surface and weight of the sign.
-
Seal the holes with silicone or exterior-grade caulk to prevent moisture.
-
Double-check leveling and alignment before securing everything permanently.
-
If installing electrical signage, have a licensed electrician handle the wiring.
Why Professional Installation Matters
While DIY installation might seem appealing, commercial signage is an investment—and one that represents your brand to every potential customer. Hiring professionals like Landmark Visibility Solutions ensures:
-
Code-compliant and permit-ready installs
-
Long-lasting, weather-resistant mounting
-
Seamless, clean design execution
-
Reduced liability from incorrect or unsafe installation
Let Landmark Visibility Solutions Handle It for You
At Landmark Visibility Solutions, we specialize in designing, fabricating, and installing high-quality metal signage for businesses across Chicagoland. Whether you need a bold storefront sign or dimensional lettering mounted on brick, our team has the tools and expertise to handle every step.
