9 things to look at when looking for nameplates
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The first thing people look for when they come looking for you at home is your nameplate. All the more reason you should keep the following things in mind when you go looking for a nameplate for yourself.
1. Independent house v/s Apartment
If you’re looking for a nameplate for your bungalow or farm-house or independent dwelling of any kind, the nameplate ought to be up there at the main gate. Alternatively, if you are living in an apartment, you’re advised to put a small nameplate on your door or on the wall beside your door.
2. Door v/s Wall
Another thing you should ask yourself when it comes to nameplates is where should I put it? In other words, should it go on the door or the wall? If you decide to affix it on the door, it’ll mean having to drill through the door, which is something you might not want to do. Also with each swing of the door, there is a chance that the fixtures will become loose over a period of time. In which case, the wall may be a better option. Of course, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to where the nameplate should go. All you need to keep in mind is it should look good and make it absolutely clear to a first-time visitor where you stay.
3. Colour Combination
The colour of the background on which the nameplate should be considered when choosing a nameplate. It’s best to go for contrasts; because contrasting colours make the nameplate more visible and show off your good name clearly and in style. Also, if you’re opting for a see-through acrylic or glass name plate, make sure the lettering is in a colour that’s visible against the wall.
4. Key Nameplate Information
When it comes to nameplates, all the relevant information should be be showcased clearly. For instance, there’s the case of multiple people with similar or same names in adjoining houses or in an apartment complex. Inclusion of the flat number and names (instead of surnames only) ensures that visitors don’t end up getting confused or lost when they come looking for you and your home.
5. Size
Depending on how much space is available, it’s important to ensure all the important information on the nameplate is clearly legible. You must ensure that you pick a nameplate that is large enough to contain enough information about your home and is readable from at least a foot or two away. For instance, if the nameplate is just outside the door, the recommended height of letters is 2 inches at the least and for nameplates that you affix on the main gate, the minimum height of the information printed on it should be no less than 4 inches.
6. Lighting
A nameplate that isn’t visible doesn’t do its job. In a corridor with poor lighting or in any space where shadows tend to dominate, it’s best to illuminate the nameplate with an external LED fixture. What’s more LED lighting is energy efficient and can ensure your name shows up in good light without making a big hole in your wallet.
Plug: Do check Housenama's Chakachaundh collection of exclusively designed LED name-plates and sign boards on.
7. Weatherproofing
A nameplate that is constantly exposed to the elements needs to be protected so that is can show off the information it contains in style for years to come. Fight fungus and other weather-related issues by opting for a nameplate that is weather-proof. It’s a small investment that will give you good long term returns. This is particularly important for independent houses and bungalows.
8. Ease of Installation
Nowadays many nameplates are easy to install. You don’t need to call in specialised people to do the job. All nameplates come with various installation options. You can go for nameplates that have hooks, screws or can even permanently glued. Whatever installation method you go for, just make sure it’s one that’s as long term as your name.
Plug: All Housenama Store nameplates come with necessary fixtures for installation thus eliminating the need to visit a hardware shop.
9. Care & Maintenance
It’s important that you care for your nameplate; after all it showcases something you care quite deeply about. Fortunately, there are very simple ways to preserve your nameplate. Choose the one that goes best with the type of nameplate you go for. Don’t forget to ask the folks you buy your nameplate from for simple tips on how to keep it in good shape for good.
Design & Budget?
We have consciously left out 2 important factors while writing this article - design and budget. While those may be your foremost decision filters, our intent here is to cover aspects that you may overlook in your purchase decision.
Conclusion
A home is something you’ve worked so hard on. It’s the culmination of dreams, effort, planning, décor, discussions... And so much more. But like an unsigned letter, it’s incomplete without the name. So when you choose to buy a name-plate for your house, choose wisely.
