Cost Breakdown for Custom Plaques: What You Need to Know

Have you ever paused to admire a beautifully crafted plaque in a park, office, or at an awards ceremony? These elegant pieces of recognition and remembrance often have fascinating stories behind them – and equally intriguing price tags.

The world of custom plaques is diverse, with prices varying significantly based on numerous factors. For those embarking on the journey of commissioning a plaque, navigating cost considerations can seem daunting at first – but we’re here to help!

How much do different plaques cost?

When it comes to plaque prices, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The cost of a plaque can vary widely depending on the material you choose. Each material has its own unique look, durability, and price point.

📌 Remember, these are general price ranges based on our experience at Impact Signs – your final cost may differ based on several factors.

1. Bronze plaques

Bronze plaques are a popular choice for many reasons. They offer a classic, elegant look that stands the test of time. They are tough, don’t rust, and can handle outdoor conditions well.

You can choose from different finishes to get the exact look you want. That is often why people choose bronze for memorials, dedications, and commemorative plaques. Bronze plaques may cost more than some other materials, but many people find them worth the investment.

2. Aluminum plaques

Aluminum plaques are a popular choice for those looking for a more budget-friendly option (more affordable than bronze). Prices typically range from $100 to $500, depending on the size and customization you choose.

These plaques are lightweight and resist rust, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. While not as tough as bronze, they still hold up well in various conditions.

Aluminum plaques can be anodized, which adds protection and allows for different color options. This process can give your plaque a unique look. These plaques also offer flexible mounting options, making them easy to display in various settings.

3. Stainless steel plaques

Stainless steel is known for its strength and resistance to corrosion. These plaques can withstand various weather conditions, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

The price of stainless steel plaques can vary widely based on size and customization.

Stainless steel plaques are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a modern aesthetic combined with durability. They often have a shiny, polished finish that gives them a professional and contemporary appearance, facilitating their use in contemporary settings, professional environments, outdoor memorials, and industrial or tech-focused businesses.

4. Brass plaques

Brass plaques offer a classic and elegant option for indoor use, combining warmth with sophistication. Best suited for indoor use, brass plaques can tarnish when exposed to outdoor elements. With proper care, they maintain their beauty for years in indoor settings.

Brass plaques are typically priced between bronze and aluminum. Common applications of brass plaques include indoor memorials, recognition awards, office signage, and historical markers inside buildings.

5. Glass plaques

Glass plaques provide a modern and sophisticated look, with options for frosted, etched, or colored glass designs, which are perfect for contemporary settings. Beveled edges can be used to add extra sophistication.

However, glass plaques offer moderate durability and are best for indoor use. They may not withstand extreme weather conditions or rough handling. They can be ideal for awards ceremonies, corporate recognitions, decorative indoor displays, and high-end office signage.

6. Acrylic plaques

Acrylic plaques offer a clear, polished finish similar to glass. They’re available in various colors and shapes, and can feature 3D engravings. Highly durable and shatter-resistant, acrylic plaques are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Their lightweight nature makes them easy to install and display.

Common applications include business lobby displays, informational signage, creative displays, and outdoor recognition plaques.

How size and quantity can impact cost

Generally, larger plaques are more expensive due to the increased amount of material required. The basic factor affecting price is the amount of square inches. Very small plaques often have a minimum charge.

It’s important to note that the amount of text or number of words typically doesn’t affect the price as long as it fits within the minimum letter size requirements for cast or etched plaques. However, if your design requires a very complex text layout, there might be an additional layout or design fee.

Ordering multiple plaques can often lead to cost savings through quantity discounts. Here’s how ordering in bulk can be beneficial:

• Even ordering just two identical plaques can result in a discount.
• For larger orders, such as 10 or more plaques, you might see a reduction in cost per plaque by 10-20%.
• Bulk discounts are often available even for similar plaques with different layouts, such as donor plaques.

While bulk orders might have longer lead times, they can be more economical for large projects or events. Measure your intended display area carefully before ordering to ensure you choose the appropriate plaque size. Consider your future needs when ordering. If you anticipate needing more plaques in the future, ordering in bulk now could save you money in the long run.

How much does adding a photo to a plaque cost?

There are several ways to add images to plaques, each with its own unique look and price point. From simple etched designs to detailed bas-relief portraits, the options are diverse. In addition, there are different methods for adding a logo depending on complexity. It could be UV-printed, etched, or cast, which would impact the bottom line.

Etched metal plaques

Etched metal plaques offer a sophisticated way to add images and text to your plaque. The etching process uses chemicals or lasers to create detailed designs on the metal surface. This technique allows for fine details and intricate designs, making it perfect for complex logos or detailed images.

Common materials for etched plaques include bronze and stainless steel. Each material offers a unique look and durability, with bronze providing a classic appearance and stainless steel offering a more modern feel.

The cost of etched plaques largely depends on the complexity of the design. Simple designs with basic text and a small logo might start around $100 for a small plaque. More complex designs with intricate patterns or detailed images could range from $200 to $500 or more, depending on size and material.

Customization options can further enhance your etched plaque. Color fills can make certain elements stand out, while different textures can add depth to the design. These features may increase the cost but can significantly improve the plaque’s visual impact.

Bas relief plaques

Bas relief plaques offer a stunning three-dimensional effect that truly brings images to life. This technique involves sculpting the design in clay, creating a mold, and then casting it in metal, usually bronze. The process requires significant time and skill, which is reflected in the cost.

Bronze is the most common material for bas relief plaques due to its durability and ability to capture fine details. The price of a bas relief plaque largely depends on the design’s complexity. A simple design might start at $500 for a small plaque, while intricate designs with multiple elements could cost $2,000 or more.

The level of detail in your bas relief design greatly impacts the price. For example, a basic portrait might be less expensive than a scene with multiple figures and background elements. Moreover, customization options for bas relief plaques include different finishes (like polished or patina) and mounting choices.

Photo relief plaques

Photo relief plaques offer a unique way to bring photographs to life in metal. This process uses advanced technology to transform a photograph into a three-dimensional image on the plaque. The result is a detailed, lifelike representation that stands out from the surface.

Common materials for photo relief plaques include bronze and aluminum. Bronze offers a classic look, while aluminum provides a more modern appearance at a lower cost. There are varying costs of adding a photo to a bronze plaque, based on the method of depiction. UV color printing adds $395, while an etched photo adds $595. Photo relief images add $800 to the base cost, and bas relief photos add $2100.

The level of detail in your photo greatly affects the final cost. A clear, high-contrast image with a single subject will typically be less expensive than a busy scene with multiple elements. Customization options for photo relief plaques include adding color accents to highlight certain features, or applying different textures to the background.

Additional plaque costs

Design complexity

In a nutshell – complex designs often require more time and skill to create, which is reflected in the price. Most standard fonts are included in the base price, but custom fonts or special text treatments may incur additional charges, potentially adding $50 to $100 to your plaque’s cost.

Different finishes can also affect the price. While a brushed satin finish is often included in the base price, a polished finish adds 50% to the cost, and an oxidized or patina finish could increase the cost by 30-70%.

Decorative borders or custom edge treatments can enhance your plaque’s appearance but may increase the cost. Standard straight edges are usually included in the base price, but custom decorative borders or ivy patterns can add 20% or more.

Mounting and installation costs

Mounting and installation are important considerations when budgeting for your plaque. There are several mounting methods available, including wall-mounted (suitable for most indoor and some outdoor plaques), post-mounted (ideal for outdoor plaques or signs; adds $300), and stake-mounted (good for temporary or garden plaques; adds $150).

Installation hardware costs can range from $10 to $500, depending on the method. For large or complex plaques, professional installation might be necessary, which can cost between $400 to $950, depending on the plaque size, mounting location, wall surface, and other factors.

Impact Signs offers various mounting options, and we can help you install all types of plaques and signage.

Packing and shipping costs

When ordering your plaque, don’t forget to factor in packing and shipping costs. Secure packaging is crucial to prevent damage during transit, and most suppliers include basic packaging in the plaque price.

However, extra protection for fragile or large plaques might add $10 to $50 to your order. Standard ground shipping is usually the most economical option, taking 5-7 business days, while expedited shipping is faster but more expensive and could add $50 to $200 to your order.

Standard production time for plaques is often 4-6 weeks. Rush production, if available to meet your event date, could add 30% to 50% to the cost.

Tips to obtain an accurate quote for your custom plaque

Getting an accurate quote for your custom plaque ensures you’ll get the best value for your money. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through the process:

• Research plaque materials and customization options thoroughly before contacting suppliers.
• Use online customization tools to visualize your design and save time on revisions.
• Read customer reviews and testimonials to gauge supplier quality and reliability.
• Set a budget and compare quotes from different suppliers, looking for transparent pricing without hidden fees.
• Consider eco-friendly options, such as lead-free and mercury-free bronze plaques.
• Request material and finish samples to ensure they meet your expectations.
• Provide clear, detailed information about your project when requesting a quote, including size, material preferences, and design complexity.
• Ask about any current promotions or bulk order discounts that might apply to your order.

Make an informed decision when ordering custom plaques

Creating a custom plaque involves several factors that influence its cost and quality. The material you choose, the size of the plaque, the complexity of your design, and any additional customization options all play a role in determining the final price. Your budget should also consider mounting, installation, and shipping costs.

At Impact Signs, we bring years of experience and expertise to every custom plaque we create. We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to produce durable, high-quality plaques that meet our customers’ needs and exceed their expectations.

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what one of our satisfied customers had to say:

“We needed a rush job on a bronze memorial plaque with a photograph, also in bronze, for my wife’s memorial dedication at our church. Impact got right on it … INCREDIBLY quickly! Each step went super fast, right to and including production and shipping. Communications and customer support just could not have been any better! It arrived perfect, and two weeks before our deadline! 🙂 The photo, our biggest concern, turned out just great as well!” – Allen G.

 

So, whether you’re commemorating an important event, honoring an individual, or enhancing your business signage, we’re here to help bring your vision to life. Contact us today to discuss your custom plaque project. Let’s create something memorable together!