Bronze plaques are timeless and strong. They look great, which makes them a popular choice for memorials, garden markers, and building signs. With many options for customization, sizes, and finishes, how do you pick the right one for you?
In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know. This will help you make the right choice and get a plaque that shows your purpose well.
1. Define the Purpose of Your Plaque
Is your bronze plaque for a memorial headstone, a commemorative bench, a historical marker, or a business entrance? Each use has specific requirements for size, wording, and mounting.
Memorial Plaques: Often include a name, dates, and a heartfelt message. These may be mounted on granite bases or headstones.
Garden or Bench Plaques: These are usually smaller and weather-resistant, often featuring floral motifs or inspirational quotes.
Building Signage: These typically include business names, founding dates, or dedication information, often mounted on walls or posts.
2. Select the Right Size and Shape
Standard sizes range from small 150mm x 100mm plaques for benches to large 600mm x 400mm wall-mounted signs. Custom sizes are also available for special installations.
Popular shapes include:
Rectangles (most versatile)
Ovals (often used in gardens)
Custom contours (for logos or sculptures)
3. Choose the Mounting Method
Mounting options will vary based on where the plaque is going:
Wall Mounts: Hidden stud fixings or screw holes
Ground Mounts: Stake mountings or fixed to concrete bases
Freestanding: Attached to posts for garden paths or signage
4. Pick the Right Finish
Bronze naturally patinas over time, but there are ways to influence its look:
Polished Bronze: A classic golden finish, best for indoor or covered areas.
Oxidized/Antique Bronze: A darker, aged look with more contrast in lettering.
Clear-Coated: Protected from weathering with a long-lasting gloss or satin seal.
5. Custom Design Options
Many suppliers like www.bronze-plaque.com offer online design tools, allowing you to preview and edit your own plaque from your phone or computer. Popular customizations include:
Raised or recessed text
Border styles (single line, rope, beveled)
Photos or logos in laser etching
Multilingual inscriptions
6. Check for Cemetery or Council Regulations
If you’re installing in a cemetery or public space, always verify their plaque size, material, and mounting requirements before purchasing. Bronze-Plaque.com can often liaise with councils or cemeteries on your behalf.
7. Durability and Weather Resistance
Bronze is ideal for outdoor use thanks to its:
Corrosion resistance
Long lifespan (decades with minimal maintenance)
High legibility even after aging
To extend the plaque’s life, consider:
Cleaning it with mild soap and water once a year
Avoiding abrasive chemicals or polishing pastes
8. Where to Order
When ordering a plaque, choose a company that offers:
Free design previews
Fixed-price quotes with no hidden fees
Fast delivery Australia-wide
Experience in cemetery and council compliance
Bronze-Plaque.com offers all of this, plus the ability to design your plaque online using their world-first design system.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bronze plaque involves more than just picking a material. With the right size, finish, and mounting, you can create a meaningful tribute, sign, or marker that lasts for generations. Bronze plaques are a great mix of beauty and strength. They can be used for memorials or building signs.
