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Budgeting for a Memorial Plaque: Tips and Insights

November 22, 2024 Plaques

Creating a memorial plaque is a meaningful way to honor a loved one or mark a special moment. While this decision can be very emotional, it can also be challenging to manage financially. 

The cost of a memorial plaque can range from under $100 up to $5000 for large, custom designs. Let’s take a look at factors that affect plaque pricing, share practical ways to manage costs, and offer advice on planning your budget with care. 

We’ll help you to find a way to create a fitting tribute while keeping your finances in mind.

Memorial plaque pricing

When budgeting for a memorial plaque, there are some things to think about: 

  1. Size is a primary consideration – larger plaques generally cost more due to increased material and labor. 
  2. Customization options are also important. Simple text engravings are typically less expensive, while adding photos, intricate designs, or unique shapes can increase the cost.

In the current market, bronze memorial plaques often start around $300 for a basic 8″ x 4″ plaque with standard text engraving. Prices can range up to $1,000 or more for larger, elaborate designs. For example, a 12″ x 8″ bronze plaque with a photo and custom border might cost around $500 to $700.

Bronze plaque with photo etching

Bronze plaque with photo etching

Customization is what makes a plaque special and one-of-a-kind. Options like raised lettering, patina finishes, or 3D elements can add substantially to the base price. While these features increase the cost, they also enhance the plaque’s visual appeal and personalization.

Bas relief bronze sculpture plaque with raised lettering

Bas relief bronze sculpture plaque with raised lettering

When budgeting for your memorial plaque, make sure to:

  • Ask about any hidden costs, such as shipping or installation fees.
  • Consider the plaque’s longevity and significance, not just the immediate cost.
  • Set aside funds for desired customizations.
  • Factor in installation costs if professional mounting is needed.
  • Inquire about volume discounts if ordering multiple plaques.

Material costs compared: From budget-friendly to premium options

Material is the most essential component of a memorial plaque, both in terms of the cost and the overall look. At Impact Signs, we offer a range of materials to fit different budgets and preferences.

Let’s break down the costs and features of popular plaque materials to help you make the right choice.

Bronze plaques: Pricing for timeless durability

Bronze plaques are the most popular choice for memorials, offering both aesthetic and long-lasting durability.

Post-mounted bronze dedication plaque

Post-mounted bronze dedication plaque

The cost of bronze plaques typically starts at around $500 for smaller, simpler designs and can exceed $5000 for larger, more intricate pieces. There are a number of things that can change the price:

  • Size: Larger plaques require more material and labor, driving up the cost.
  • Finish: Bronze plaques come in various finishes, such as antique, brushed, or polished, each adding to the overall price based on the complexity of the finish.
  • Mounting: Options such as stud or screw-mounted, post-mounted, or stake-mounted plaques vary in cost depending on the installation method.
  • Relief depth: Higher relief designs require more material and time for craftsmanship, which increases the price.

It’s important to think about the long-term value of bronze plaques. Although bronze is a premium option, its durability and resistance to weathering mean that bronze plaques last for decades with minimal maintenance, often making them a cost-effective choice over time. 

Bronze plaques also resist corrosion and retain their beauty for decades, making them an ideal choice for honoring a loved one or commemorating a significant event.

Affordable alternatives: Aluminum, brass, stainless steel, and more

For those looking for more budget-friendly alternatives, materials like aluminum, brass, and granite offer excellent quality at lower price points:

  • Aluminum: Prices range from $300 to $2000, making aluminum one of the most economical options. It’s lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings. Its modern look works well for contemporary designs.
Cast aluminum dedication plaque with bas relief photos

Cast aluminum dedication plaque with bas relief photos

  • Brass: Brass memorial plaques cost between $500 and $3000 and provide a traditional, warm look with good durability. It can be used in various environments and offers a classic, old-school look.
  • Stainless steel: Stainless steel plaques are perfect if you’re searching for a more affordable option that still has a metal look. Prices start from $75 for a 5”x7” plaque. You can also add color photos to these plaques to make the memorial even more personal.
Stainless steel plaque with color photo

Stainless steel plaque with color photo

  • Glass: Memorial plaques made from glass offer a unique, modern and architectural look. These can also have a photo added – either black and white, or color. Glass memorial plaques are best suited to indoor locations. Custom designs start at $500.
  • Acrylic: One of the most affordable options, acrylic plaques start from $250. Acrylic memorial plaques are perfect if you’re looking for something different and unique. They can be created in any color you want.

Indoor vs. outdoor plaques

An important factor when deciding on plaque material is where it will be placed. Outdoor plaques need extra protection to handle the elements, which makes them slightly more expensive. Indoor plaques, on the other hand, don’t need these treatments and tend to cost less. Here’s a simple comparison to help you decide:

Price comparison table of indoor vs outdoor plaques

Customization and its impact on price

The more detailed and personalized the design, the higher the cost. Here are some of the customization options and how they influence pricing:

  • Engraving: Simple text engraving is the most budget-friendly option. However, if you opt for more elaborate designs, such as raised lettering or deep relief, the price increases. The cost also depends on the amount of text and the complexity of the engraving.
Etched bronze memorial plaque

Etched bronze memorial plaque

  • 3D bas relief portraits: Adding a 3D bas relief portrait brings depth and realism to a plaque, but it typically increases the cost by 30-50% compared to flat engravings. This option is ideal for creating a more lifelike tribute.
Bas relief bronze dedication plaque

Bas relief bronze dedication plaque

  • Photo customization: There are two main types of photo customization – etched photos and photo relief. Etched photos are a more affordable option and work well for outdoor plaques. Photo relief plaques offer a more lifelike image but typically cost more. The size and detail of the image will also impact the final price.
Photo relief collage plaque with full background image

Photo relief collage plaque with full background image

  • Personalized designs and custom shapes: Adding custom artwork, symbols, or non-standard shapes can raise the price by 10-30%, depending on the complexity. Custom shapes, in particular, add a unique touch to the plaque but typically come with additional setup costs.

At Impact Signs, prices for customized plaques can range from $500 for simpler designs to over $3000 for more intricate creations.

How size affects plaque cost

At Impact Signs, standard plaque sizes range from 8″x12″ to larger options like 18″x24″, with pricing increasing based on dimensions. 

Weight is also important. Bronze plaques, being more durable and heavier, tend to be more expensive compared to, say, aluminum, for larger sizes. Additionally, the thickness of the plaque, whether 1/8″ or 1/4″, directly affects the cost. Thicker plaques require more material and craftsmanship, which increases the price.

If you are thinking of choosing larger plaques, it’s worth noting that they allow for more intricate designs and longer inscriptions with higher costs. The increased space can justify the expense if you need detailed artwork or more room for personalization.

Custom sizes are also available, though they come with additional setup fees and higher shipping costs depending on the dimensions. For larger plaques, Impact Signs offers guidance to help balance size, design, and budget effectively.

Let Impact Signs aid your search for the perfect memorial plaque

We know planning a memorial plaque can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming. So let us help you. 

Contact us today with any questions or requirements you have and we will get back to you with our recommendations. We’re here to help you create a fitting tribute.

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