Flanges
Flange Signs of the Times
A flange, technically speaking, is a rib, rim, or lip added to a metal part. Take, for example, the wheel of a train: the flange is the piece on the inside of the wheel, used to guide the wheel along the track. Flanges add strength to structures, guide them along tracks or pathways, or are key in the attachment of one part to another object, such as the rims and lips (also flanges) on pipes.
A flange sign is an old-fashioned type of sign designed to extend out and away from a building at a 90' angle. They're called "flange signs" because of the piece that attaches them to the exterior wall: the flange is a lip at a right angle.
Modern Flange Signs
Today, flange signs are pretty rare outside of a collector's basement. During the 1950s and '60s, flange signs were common in America, where they were used by businesses to advertise soda pop, gas stations, and point the way to the restroom. They were often made of die-cut tin.
Although this type of flange sign is gone, modern house number signs have picked up the mantle and begun creating flange-style house number signs. This means, if you've always wanted a 1950s-era sign on your home, this is a great time to buy one.
House Number Signs Style
The flange style of modern house number signs is, of course, a little bit different. Rather than being crafted from die-cut tin, today's house signs are usually created from a firm foam or plastic, such as polystyrene. This makes them weatherproof and rigid in addition to their old-fashioned charm.
The house numbers are often portrayed in a column, reading from top to bottom. Graphics are possible, though they must be kept small. Family names, house names, or other information may be squeezed in after a consultation with the house number signs manufacturer.
Flexible Use, Inflexible Material
Flange house number signs are visible from both sides, and can be used indoors or out. They might be more practical indoors if your home has a confusing layout; for example, to point the way to the living room for guests, or direct visitors to the basement. However, house number signs installed outdoors are classic, and such a retro design is sure to get people's attention.
The flange itself is just a funny name for the way the piece is connected to the wall. Rather than have to purchase a separate bracket and go through the hassle of assembling your home signs in that method, flange-style house number signs are easy to mount and install. The holes are pre-drilled - all you need to do is place the sign where you want it, and you've got a slice of history all your own!