{"id":8693,"date":"2024-12-06T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-12-06T06:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.impactsigns.com\/bronze-vs-aluminum\/"},"modified":"2025-05-25T17:39:55","modified_gmt":"2025-05-25T22:39:55","slug":"bronze-vs-aluminum","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.impactsigns.com\/bronze-vs-aluminum\/","title":{"rendered":"Bronze vs. Aluminum: A Guide to Signage and Plaques"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Two popular metals used for plaques and signs are bronze and aluminum. Their uses are versatile, ranging from simple signs to elegant works of art. And, if you walk around your downtown areas, you may notice that bronze signs and aluminum lettering catch your eye. But when choosing for yourself, how do you decide between bronze vs. aluminum?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Impact Signs has been handcrafting bronze and aluminum signs since 1989, and we want you to be an informed decision-maker. Find out the differences between the two metals and how best to choose.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

What is bronze?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n

Bronze is a well-known metal made with 12% copper, tin, or other metals like aluminum, zinc, or phosphorus. Depending on its chemical makeup, its properties, like its appearance, can change. It was such a popular metal when it was discovered that historians named the Bronze Age (~3000-1000 BC) after it. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Why use bronze for plaques and signage?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n

Bronze is durable and very pretty, which makes it incredibly popular for indoor and outdoor signs. Other bronze properties, such as its long lifespan, make it suitable for other applications like artwork or building materials.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

Durable and long-lasting<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n

Bronze doesn\u2019t bend or break, is fatigue and friction-resistant, and can withstand extreme temperatures. When casting, bronze is heated to between 500\u00ba and 750\u00ba, which develops its strong and resistant nature. This is one of the reasons why we still use it today.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

Weather resistant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n

Another reason bronze is popular is its weather-resistant properties. Due to its durability, bronze can withstand extreme temperatures. In fact, the only way <\/span>temperatures can affect bronze<\/span><\/a> is through improper development. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

Corrosion resistant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n

All metals will deteriorate if exposed to the elements or certain chemicals. That said, bronze is naturally corrosion-resistant, which is when a metal naturally deteriorates. This resistance makes bronze a popular metal for use in the ocean. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

For outdoor signs or plaques, bronze is a great choice, as its resistance to corrosion reduces replacement times and costs, especially for any sign in a humid area. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

Aesthetic appeal<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n

Bronze\u2019s strength and long lifespan have made it very popular for displays, signs, and artwork. In addition to its long-lasting nature, the natural oxidation that occurs, called <\/span>patina<\/span><\/a>, is an often sought-after feature. It can also be oxidized, giving it an oil rubbed, <\/span>antique bronze look<\/span><\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Patina is a thin green film that covers signs, statues, and other bronze materials, emphasizing the item’s characteristics. It shows natural aging that enhances the quality and aesthetics while showcasing its resilience to time.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

How to maintain bronze<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n

Even though bronze is durable and can last generations, regular maintenance can help the metal keep its luster. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To maintain bronze and keep it looking sharp:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Gently dust with a soft brush or microfiber cloth.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Use a sponge with mild soap and warm water to clean.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Rinse with clean water.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Dry with a clean microfiber cloth.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Although the patina is natural and sometimes desired, you may also find yourself looking to keep the original color. Be aware of methods of removing the patina that can permanently damage bronze. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Some general maintenance tips to keep that bronze sheen looking timeless include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n