How to Pull Off the Perfect Plaque Install

Your custom plaque has arrived, beautifully crafted and ready to install on your home. More than just numbers, a plaque is a design feature that adds polish and personality to your entryway.

When it comes to installation, you also have options. Pair your plaque with a contrast plate for extra visibility and bold impact from the street, or install your plaque on its own. Both approaches deliver the same sleek, modern style, with their own unique emphasis.

The best part? With the right tools and Modern House Numbers’ step-by-step instructions, installation is simple and stress-free. Let’s get started!

What’s in the Box?

Every plaque order comes carefully packed with everything you need:

• Your Solid Aluminum Plaque: Precision, waterjet cut and built to last outdoors.
  

• Concealed Mounting Hardware: 2-inch steel studs, washers, and ½” aluminum spacers to give you a modern, floating look.
  

• Optional Contrast Plate (if upgraded): A contrasting plate designed to sit behind your plaque, instantly increasing visibility and readability from the street.
  

• Custom Drilling Template: Designed to make positioning and drilling effortless for a professional installation.
  

• Easy Installation Guide: Clear instructions to keep things simple.
  
  

Contrast Plate Upgrade: A Smart Choice

Want your plaque to stand out from the street? A contrast plate can make all the difference.

• Improves Readability: Increases visibility on textured, dark, or patterned walls.
  

• Adds Depth: Creates a bold, layered look.
  

• Design Flexibility: Choose with or without, both look great, but the contrast plate offers maximum impact.
  

Pro Tip: If you’re not sure, go with the contrast plate, you can always install the plaque without it, but having the option gives you flexibility. Most customers end up using it and love the extra definition it adds!

Gear Up Before You Start: A Handy Checklist

Before you start, gather a few basic supplies to help your install run smoothly:

Pro Tip: Use a hammer drill on stone or masonry for best results. If mounting to wood fencing or siding, you may need shorter studs (easy to pick up at any hardware store).

Installation Made Easy: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a straightforward guide to installing your plaque using the template and hardware included with your order. We’ll walk you through each step, making it easy to get a professional-looking result without any guesswork.

1. Position the Template

Secure your custom template where you want the plaque and check it with a level. Because plaques are larger than individual numbers, even a slight tilt will be noticeable, so take a moment to get it just right.

• Pro Tip: Step back and view it from a distance, this helps ensure it looks perfectly straight from the street.

2. Drill Holes

Drill the holes exactly where the template indicates. Choose a drill bit that matches your installation surface:

• Wood, siding, stucco→ use an 11/64” bit
  

• Stone, brick, concrete→ use a 3/16” masonry bit and a hammer drill
  

3. Apply Epoxy

Add a small amount of epoxy to one end of each stud, then insert them into the pre-drilled holes on the back of your plaque. If the fit is snug, place a soft cloth under the face of the plaque and gently tap the studs in with a mallet.

• Epoxy Tip: Less is more, use just enough to hold the studs. Too much can squeeze out around the edges during installation.
  

• Alignment Check: Give the studs a quick look to make sure they’re straight and fully seated. This keeps your plaque secure and makes the rest of the install easier.

4. Add Your Contrast Plate (Optional Upgrade)

If you ordered the contrast plate, here’s how to install it:

1. Slide the contrast plate over the studs so it rests directly behind the plaque.
   

2. Add washers, followed by spacers.
   

5. Test the Fit

Before applying epoxy to the end of the exposed stud, insert the studs into the drilled holes to test the fit of the plaque. This test fit helps make sure everything is accurate before adding the epoxy adhesive.

6. Mount the Plaque

Apply a thin layer of epoxy to the exposed ends of the studs and gently press the plaque into the drilled holes.

• Handle with Care: Avoid hitting the plaque directly, as this can dent or scratch the finish. Protect the face with a soft cloth and gently tap with a mallet until it’s fully seated into the installation surface.
  

• Check the Studs: Make sure all studs are fully inserted in both the plaque and the wall, with spacers flush against the surface. Exposed studs can rust over time.
  

• Add Extra Protection: If you’re concerned about moisture, apply a clear protective coating to the studs before mounting for added durability.
  

7. Clean & Admire

Wipe away any excess epoxy with a paper towel. Step back and admire, your plaque is officially installed and looking incredible.

Final Thoughts 

Adding a plaque is one of the quickest ways to give your home a modern, polished look. With concealed hardware, a custom template, and the option of a contrast plate, you’ll achieve a professional installation that’s both durable and stylish.

Need a Printable Guide?

Download and print our easy-to-follow plaque installation PDFs below:

• Without a contrast plate
  

• With a contrast plate

Have questions or run into a tricky install situation? Contact our support team, we’re happy to help!

Ready to start? Grab your drill and let’s get installing!