Flush Mount or Floating Mount - How to Choose the Right House Numbers for Your Home

When it comes to making your home easily identifiable, house numbers play a crucial yet often overlooked role. We've seen firsthand how the right choice between flush mount and floating mount numbers can significantly enhance a home's street appeal. Let's explore these two popular mounting options to help you make the best decision for your property.

Understanding the Two Mounting Styles

Flush mount numbers sit directly against your wall surface, creating a sleek, integrated look. They're attached using adhesive, screws, or both, depending on the material of both the numbers and your home's exterior.

Floating mount (or standoff mount) numbers, on the other hand, are installed with spacers that create a gap between the numbers and the wall. This creates a dramatic shadow effect as the numbers appear to "float" above the surface.

All of our numbers and letters 100mm in height or taller come with rods and spacers suitable for either a floating or flush mount. You can view our custom house number options here. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing

Your Home's Architectural Style

The architectural style of your home should influence your choice. Generally speaking:

• Traditional homes (Victorian, Federation/Edwardian, Californian Bungalow) often pair beautifully with flush mount numbers that complement their classic lines.
• Modern and contemporary homes or midcentury modern architecture tends to showcase floating mount numbers effectively, as the shadow play adds another dimension to minimalist facades.

That said, there are no hard rules! A traditional home with modern elements might look stunning with floating numbers.

Visibility Considerations

Think about how visible your address needs to be:

• Floating mount numbers create shadows that enhance visibility, especially in direct sunlight. The dimensional aspect makes them easier to read from various angles and distances.
• Flush mount numbers can be more difficult to see in certain lighting conditions but work well when contrasting colors are used (such as black numbers on a light-colored wall).

Material of Your Home's Exterior

Your home's exterior material matters significantly:

• Siding or wood: Both options work well, though floating mounts may require more precise installation to ensure stability.
• Colorbond or textured surfaces: Floating mounts might be preferable as they rise above the textured surface, providing better visibility.
• Brick or stone: Floating mounts can help numbers stand out from these busy backgrounds, though installation may be more challenging.

Weather Conditions

Your local climate should factor into your decision:

• Windy areas: Flush mount numbers offer less resistance to wind and are less likely to be damaged in storms.
• Areas with heavy snowfall: Floating mount numbers may collect less snow and remain more visible during winter months.
• Coastal regions: Consider corrosion-resistant materials regardless of mount type, as sea air can be particularly harsh on metal hardware.

Installation Considerations

Before making your final decision, think about:

DIY vs. Professional Installation

• Both Flush mount and Floating mount numbers are relatively easy to install with our included rods, spacers and installation templates.
• Multiple letters or uneven surfaces involve more precise measurements and may require some assistance from a tradesperson who has completed a simplar job before.

Maintenance Requirements

• Flush mount numbers generally collect less dust and debris due to their proximity to the wall.
• Floating mount numbers may require occasional cleaning behind the numbers, but this is rarely a significant issue.

Making Your Final Decision

Still can't decide? Consider these practical tips:

1. Take photos of your home's exterior and try digitally superimposing different number styles.
2. Look around your neighborhood for inspiration, noting which style catches your eye.
3. Consider temporary installation of one or two numbers in each style to see which you prefer.
4. Think about lighting – if you have exterior lighting near your house numbers, how will it interact with each mounting style?

Peninsula House Numbers: Our Recommendations

At Peninsula House Numbers, we generally prefer the dynamic appearance of floating mount numbers - but at the end of the day, it can really be up to personal preference. 

Remember, house numbers are both functional and decorative. They're often one of the first things visitors notice about your home, so choose a style that not only serves its practical purpose but also complements your home's unique character.

Whether you choose the clean, integrated look of flush mount numbers or the dimensional impact of floating mount numbers, we're here to help you make your house a home that's both beautiful and easily identifiable, so feel free to get in touch with any questions!