House Numbers

House Address Numbers | Modern to Traditional Styles

Choose Your Look: Modern, Traditional or Plaque Styles

Style definitely sets the mood, but usability is what really drives the final choice. Most buyers start by choosing the architecture they like, then narrow things down by looking at finishes and mounting options.

Here are the most common directions shoppers choose.

Modern House Numbers

Modern house numbers usually stick to clean lines and simple sans-serif fonts. A lot of homeowners love floating or pin-mounted styles because the slight lift off the wall creates a soft shadow behind each number. That shadow increases contrast and makes numbers easier to read from the curb.

Modern styles work especially well on:

• Contemporary homes

• Mid-century designs

• Renovated exteriors with minimal detailing

• New construction projects

Builders often plan for larger floating numbers right from the start because they’re easy to see and don’t need extra decorative details. The finished look feels clean, purposeful, and simple to read at a glance.

Traditional House Numbers (Classic Hardware Style)

Traditional house numbers rely on familiar shapes and established finishes such as bronze, brass, and black. Homeowners with colonial, craftsman, or farmhouse exteriors often select these finishes to coordinate with door hardware and lighting.

Property managers also favor traditional styles in HOA communities where consistency matters across multiple homes.

Buyers usually choose traditional numbers when they want:

• A timeless appearance

• Finishes that complement existing exterior hardware

• Decorative detail without excessive ornamentation

Traditional does not mean outdated. It simply means proven and consistent.

Materials & Finishes That Hold Up Outdoors

Exterior house numbers must withstand sun, rain, wind, and temperature changes. Material choice affects both durability and appearance.

Most buyers choose from:

• Aluminum: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and low maintenance.

• Brass: Classic finish suited for traditional architecture.

• Bronze: Develops a natural patina over time.

• Steel (coated): Strong and stable when properly finished.

• Powder-coated finishes: Add protection against moisture and fading.

Coastal environments introduce salt exposure. Powder-coated aluminum or corrosion-resistant metals perform best in those conditions.

Choosing the right material protects both readability and longevity.

Visibility Concerns: Size, Contrast, Font, and Lighting

House Number Size Guide (Based on Distance)

Viewing distance should determine number height. Homes close to the street can use smaller digits. Homes set back farther require larger numbers for clear visibility.

As a general reference:

• Up to 20 feet from the street: 2–3 inch numbers

• Around 30 feet: 4–5 inch numbers

• 50+ feet: 6 inch or larger

Stand at the curb and look toward your home. If the numbers are difficult to read quickly, increase the size. Larger digits reduce missed deliveries and confusion.

Contrast & Finish: Make Your Numbers Shine

Contrast determines how quickly someone can identify your address.

Light numbers stand out against dark siding. Dark numbers stand out against light brick. When the finish blends into the background, visibility suffers.

Avoid selecting a finish that closely matches your exterior color. Design matters, but legibility matters more.

Some homeowners install dedicated lighting above their house numbers. Others choose reflective or illuminated options. Both approaches improve nighttime visibility and reduce guesswork.

Drivers must be able to see the numbers in daylight and after dark.

Placement Tips: Where to Mount for Fast Findability?

Mount house numbers where drivers can see them clearly from the street.

Common locations include:

• Beside the main entry door

• Above the garage

• On a mailbox post near the street

• On a plaque at the driveway entrance

Avoid locations blocked by landscaping, columns, or architectural details. Before final installation, step back to the curb and confirm nothing obstructs the view.

Small adjustments improve visibility.

Installation & Mounting: Fast, Clean, and Secure

Most house numbers include mounting hardware and installation instructions. Standard tools handle most installations.

Many exterior numbers use aluminum because it resists corrosion, remains lightweight, and drills cleanly.

Common mounting types include:

• Screw-mounted numbers for siding, wood, or masonry

• Floating or pin-mounted numbers that create depth

• Adhesive-backed options for smooth surfaces

Before securing hardware:

• Use a level to maintain alignment

• Measure spacing between digits

• Drill pilot holes for wood or masonry

• Use anchors for brick or stucco

• Check visibility from the street before tightening

Careful alignment creates a clean, finished look.

Custom & Personalized House Numbers (For a One-of-One Look)

Some properties require more than standard digits. Custom plaques combine numbers and street names in one layout.

Options include:

• Street name and number combinations

• Vertical or horizontal orientation

• Font styles that match modern or traditional homes

• Finish selections that coordinate with exterior hardware

Property managers often standardize custom plaques across multi-unit communities to maintain consistency and readability.

Customization allows you to match your home’s style without sacrificing clarity.