When designing a sign that lives outside — whether it’s a sidewalk A-frame or a wall-mounted display — one of the most important decisions is the material. It might not sound like the most exciting choice, but it can make all the difference when it comes to longevity, usability, and how the sign looks over time.
George & Willy often get asked why we choose aluminum over steel for our outdoor signs, so we thought we’d break it down.
First things first — both are strong materials.
Steel and aluminum are both sturdy, reliable options. They’re used across architecture, design, and construction for good reason. But when it comes to something you’re using every day — especially outside — the details start to matter.
Steel is heavier. A lot heavier.
On paper, that might sound like a good thing. But in real life, it means your sign is harder to move, more difficult to set up, and takes more effort to bring inside at the end of the day. If you’re running a café, shop, or studio, that’s a daily task. As well as being used outside on your regular sidewalk, a lot of our customers want signs they can transport easily to markets or different pop-up locations. Choosing aluminum means it’s easy to carry out in the morning and pack away in the evening — no awkward lifting required.
Aluminum doesn’t rust.
This is a big one. Steel can rust when exposed to moisture — especially if the surface is scratched or chipped. Over time, even powder-coated steel will start to show signs of wear in coastal or damp climates.
Aluminum, on the other hand, doesn’t rust. It holds up in the rain, near the ocean, and in full sun. It’s naturally corrosion-resistant, which means your sign will keep looking good, even years down the track.
It still looks great.
We use a powder-coated finish on our aluminum signs, giving them a clean, understated look that works in all kinds of spaces. Lightweight doesn’t have to mean flimsy — our aluminum signs are solid, simple, and built to last.
In short?
-
Aluminum is lighter = easier to move
-
Aluminum doesn’t rust = better for outdoors
-
It lasts longer = less maintenance over time
We design our signs to be part of your space for the long haul. Choosing aluminum means your sign stays looking good and working hard — rain or shine.
