Standoffs are ideal for fixing rigid frames, signs, displays, print and graphics to walls and other upright surfaces. As the UK’s leading supplier of high quality stand-offs for signs we’ve put together a beginners’ guide to make sure you choose the right standoffs for your projects
What stand-offs?
They are mounting hardware for signs, POS display, LED lightpocket frame, rigid print and similar products. If you see a sign or poster that is fixed but a small distance from the surface then it is likely the sign has been attached to that surface using some form of sign standoff fixings.
The fixings are known by a variety of names such as stand-offs, standoffs, sign supports and spacers.
Why do I need stand-off fixings?
You don’t always need to use these products as frames, signs, posters etc. can be fixed directly on the wall be fixed using some of the many adhesive-based options available. But using sign standoffs creates a professional and smart look, as well as providing a method of supporting the weight of the sign.
What size are standoffs for signs?
There are a large number of size options to choose from. The most important size to get correct is to make sure the fixing will hold the full depth of the sign, print or panel. You can find this information on the product page. You will also see the diameter and depth of the fixing. This choice is largely cosmetic, although in some locations you might wish the mounted item to be close to the wall, or further away for practical reasons.
What finishes are available?
Most sign standoffs are made from aluminium and powder coated to a finish. Standard finishes include Polished Chrome, Satin Chrome, Brass and Black. If budget is an issue choose the lowest price product. If look is important choose the finish that compliments or contrasts with the wall colour or the environment where the sign is to be mounted.
How many standoffs will I need?
When you are purchasing these sign stand offs, remember that you want more than one – you should need one for each corner of the sign IF your sign is less than four square feet. If it is longer, you may need to install them half way between points or every 18” or so. In addition, remember that the caps to these screw in to the barrel, and allows for a 1/4”sign to hang.
How to install stand-offs
- Mark on the wall where you want your panel holes to be positioned using a pencil
- Drill holes where you have marked the wall
- Insert a raw plug into the hole in the wall
- Unscrew the sign support
- Fit the barrel of the stand off fixings to the wall by screwing the fixing screw through the hole in the sign support into the raw plug in the wall using a screw driver
- Fit the panel to the barrel of the stand off fixings
- Pass the threaded cap through the panel and screw into the barrel
- Tighten cap using the allen key
