11.20.23
 

House Number Size Requirements

People may not think house numbers are important, but most often, it's the small touches that catch others' attention. House numbers are a great way to personalize the exterior of your home. But before you install them, it's wise to be mindful of the house number size requirements.

So, are there specific regulations for house number fonts or styles? Once you read our guide about the sizes and the factors necessary to consider, you'll be able to choose the right house numbers for your home. 

House Number Size Requirements

Whether you are moving into a newly built house or just moving from one house to another, you may want to put up your address numbers to fit the exterior design. 

House numbers on your home's exterior are a great way to add a personal touch while making it easier for people to find your house. So, what are the standard size requirements for house numbers? We advise yours to be 3 to 6 inches tall.

However, before you choose the size and design you want, it is important to consider some factors. Some of them are the following:

  • Number visibility
  • Placement guidelines
  • Numbers size specification
  • Numbering regulations 
  • Style and design
  • House Number Size Requirements
    Source: modernhousenumbers.com

    Number visibility

    The first thing you should keep in mind when choosing the size of your house numbers is their visibility. If they are not visible from the street, no one can find your home, whether it's your guests or first responders.

    The main point of adding house numbers is to make your house easy to identify, especially in an emergency. The size of the address numbers you choose impacts their visibility from the street. 

    For instance, smaller numbers are unlikely to have high visibility if your house sits further from the street. In this case, you should choose larger-sized house numbers to ensure they are visible from the street.

    However, if your house is near the street, you may choose average-sized house numbers. These smaller numbers will be visible as your house is closer to the street.

    Placement guidelines 

    There are many ways to display your house numbers. Most states may also have placement guidelines to ensure they can be seen clearly. For instance, some states say the house number placement must be above or at the side of the house door so they are visible from the street line. But for houses that are further from the street line, the number placement may be:

  • Near the walk driveway
  • On a mailbox
  • Gate post
  • Fence
  • Generally, the most important thing about house number placement is that you can see them from the street. Another thing you should keep in mind is the spacing between the numbers during placement. Properly spaced numbers will enhance the numbers' visibility.

    And keep in mind, if you install the house numbers too close to each other, it may be hard to tell them apart.
    Placement Guidelines
    Numbers size specifications 

    In general, we recommend our clients start from 4 inches regarding the address numbers' size. However, if your house is right next to the street, you may go for 3-inch-sized house numbers. 

    So, how far away should house numbers be visible from the street? Depending on the distance, we recommend you consider the following size requirements.

  • Less than 70 feet - up to 4 inches
  • From 50 to 110 feet - 4 inches or larger
  • From 111 to 132 feet - 6 inches or larger
  • From 133 to 160 feet - 8 inches or larger
  • From 161 to 300 feet - 12 inches or larger
  • More than 300 feet - 15 inches or larger
  • Numbering regulations 

    You should check out if there are any jurisdiction regulations when it comes to displaying addresses. Display house numbers according to the local requirements. This is important because you may be forced to pay a fine if your house number violates the jurisdiction regulations. 

    Besides height requirements, many states also require that the numbers be of a certain thickness. Some other regulations may include:

    • Contrasting color to the background - Having reflective address numbers makes your house much easier to spot at night. This is why contrasting colors are better. Otherwise, they will blend in with the background and be invisible at night. 
    • Unobscured view - You should ensure the view of your house number from the street is not obscured by anything. This includes trees, shrubs, or other immovable objects. 
    • Face the street - Your house numbers should be placed to face the street named in your address. The numbers facing the street are especially important for first responders. The consequences could be disastrous if they can't find the right house during an emergency.

    Style and design 

    When it comes to style and design, there are plenty of ways you can get creative with house number placement. You can display the numbers in various fonts, styles, and designs as long as they are visible. 

    We provide house numbers made from durable aluminum to ensure they last for years. The most common materials for house numbers include the following: 

  • Metal
  • Wood
  • Stainless steel
  • Plastic with chrome finish
  • Remember to choose the material best for the local climate. You want the house numbers to withstand the yearly weather changes without damage. 

    Moreover, when it comes to font style and design, the most popular among our clients is a modern minimalist one. This is because it adds a sophisticated edge to the overall exterior look of the house.

    For instance, Sans Serif fonts are modern and simple in various sizes that complement most home styles. Other popular font styles include:

    • Rustic - This is an excellent choice for people who like more homely decor with a handmade feel. An address plaque is an excellent choice for this style. 
    • Art-Deco - The retro style of the 1920s greatly compliments dark-colored doors due to its warm metal tone.
    Style and design
    Source: modernhousenumbers.com

    Do Different Cities or States Have Different Size Requirements for House Numbers?

    Before deciding on the house numbers' size, style, and color, the best course of action is to check your state's building code and guidelines. Your state or even county may have specific requirements you must comply with. 

    You do not want to get a fine for incorrectly placed house numbers. Not only will you need to spend money paying a fine, but you will also need to spend more to replace the address numbers. 

    You can choose any font that reflects your style, as long as your house numbers are visible from the street line and comply with the local regulatory guidelines. 

    Conclusion

    As you can see, visibility is a driving factor when it comes to house number size requirements. You should choose a size for your house numbers that ensure they can be seen clearly from your street's line. Plus, if you want to ensure your address visibility even at night, use contrasting colors for your house.

    Altogether, if you want modern house numbers handcrafted with care, you can contact us at Modern House Numbers for the impeccable quality and top tier service!

    Picture of the Author

    rick mclain, author

    Rick is a licensed architect at Repp McLain Design & Construction. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Arizona and an MS from the Department of Architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). When he’s not designing and fabricating he enjoys spending time with Brandy, Jack, Avery & Taylor and restoring his grandfather’s Ford pickup truck. Learn more about Rick on LinkedIn.

    You can learn more about Rick on the Repp McLain Website, on LinkedIn, at the AIA Website, or on Facebook.

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