Mounting Options and Installation Guide for Metal Plaques

Every installation site is different, so choosing the right mounting method ensures your plaque is secure, level, and built to last. American Cast Bronze Plaques offers multiple mounting options to fit a variety of wall materials, landscapes, and display preferences.

Mounting Options

Blind Mount (Hidden Hardware)

Best for: Smooth stone, brick, or concrete walls where no visible hardware is desired.
How it works: Threaded studs are permanently attached to the back of the plaque and inserted into drilled holes in the wall. The studs are secured with a construction-grade adhesive such as PLMAXX.
Key points:

• Clean, flush appearance — no visible fasteners.

• Ideal for high-end or architectural installations.

• Adhesive should be applied both in the drilled holes and on the back of the plaque.

• Use spacers if mounting over uneven surfaces.

Solid Wall Mount with Concrete Anchors

Best for: Masonry, stone, or poured concrete surfaces.
How it works: Holes are drilled into the wall, anchors are inserted, and screws pass through the plaque into the anchors. A small amount of PLMAXX or equivalent adhesive should be applied in each hole and across the plaque’s back for maximum stability.
Key points:

• Strong, long-term installation for heavy plaques.

• Ideal for outdoor environments.

• Level and mark all holes before drilling to ensure proper alignment.

Hollow Wall Mount

Best for: Drywall, hollow brick, or thin wall panels.
How it works: Special toggle or expansion anchors are used to secure the plaque through the surface material.
Key points:

• Suitable for interior installations.

• Choose anchors rated for the plaque’s weight.

• Avoid overtightening to prevent damage to the wall or plaque.

Wood Mount

Best for: Wooden posts, beams, or indoor decorative displays.
How it works: Wood screws secure the plaque directly to the surface.
Key points:

• Use rust-resistant or stainless-steel screws.

• Pre-drill holes slightly smaller than screw diameter.

• Avoid excessive torque to prevent warping or cracking.

Stake Mount

Best for: Gardens, lawns, and memorial settings.
How it works: The plaque attaches to aluminum or steel stakes that are inserted into the ground.
Available lengths: 24″, 36″, and 48″.
Plaque size compatibility: Supports plaques up to 8″ x 12″.
Key points:

• Great for temporary or semi-permanent ground displays.

• Place stakes evenly and ensure level alignment.

• For extra stability, stakes can be set in concrete or gravel.

Post Mount

Best for: Larger outdoor plaques or freestanding displays.
How it works: The plaque mounts to heavy-duty square posts embedded into the ground or concrete footings.
Available sizes:

• 1″ square post — for smaller plaques.

• 1.5″ square post — for medium plaques.

• 2″ square post — for larger plaques.
  Available lengths: 6′ or 8′.
  Key points:

• Designed for plaques larger than 8″ x 12″.

• Suitable for parks, cemeteries, trails, and public areas.

• Posts can be single (bottom center) or double (side-mount).

Installation Guide

Follow these steps to ensure a secure and lasting installation:

1. Plan and Measure

   • Confirm mounting location, height, and alignment.

   • Mark hole positions using the plaque as a template.

2. Drill Holes

   • For Blind Mount or Solid Wall Mount, use a masonry bit matching your anchor or stud size.

   • Clean out dust or debris from each hole.

3. Apply Construction Adhesive

   • Use a high-quality adhesive such as PLMAXX.

   • Apply adhesive both inside each drilled hole and on the back of the plaque around the mounting points.

4. Set the Plaque

   • Insert studs or screws into the holes and press the plaque firmly against the surface.

   • Check for level alignment before adhesive sets.

5. Allow Adhesive to Cure

   • Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s cure time before applying stress or weight.

   • Do not move or adjust the plaque once set.

6. Avoid Stucco Contact

   • Do not install plaques in direct contact with stucco surfaces.

   • The minerals and moisture content in stucco can negatively affect metal finishes over time.

   • Always use separating spacers to create airflow between the plaque and the surface.

Maintenance Tip

Inspect mounting points every few months, especially for outdoor plaques exposed to wind, moisture, or freeze/thaw cycles. Tighten or reinforce hardware as needed to ensure ongoing stability.