How to select the right house number size for your home

What size should house numbers be?

This is a question we often get asked. The answer is... it depends on a number of factors. Visibility from the street, fixing surface and the aesthetic of your home are all factors that need to be carefully considered.

Is there a standard size for a house number?

In short, no. In Australia, there is no government mandated standard size for a house number, the standard size is more so set by the typical sized house numbers used by other home owners within your area.
In general, we tend to see a smaller size house number used for apartments, office buildings or in more densely populated areas - 100mm or 150mm height numbers.
In coastal areas, larger properties and particularly houses that are architecturally designed, we tend to see large house numbers - 300mm, 400mm height and above. Often, these types of homes tend to use a house number as a statement piece, rather than just a functional element.

Consider visibility of your house number from the street

One of the first things to consider when selecting a house number size is how visible it will be from the street. Ideally, the house number selected should be quickly and easily seen by visitors to your home, as this is the core functional element that a house numbers are used for!
If the design of your house means that the fixing surface for your number is very close to the street, from a visibility perspective, an extra large house number is not required.
If however, the layout of your home means the number is mounted on the house facade itself, which may be some distance from the street, then a larger house number is beneficial to assist in visibility.
In addition to size, it’s important to consider other elements that can assist with visibility such as the colour/finish and font choice for your number.

Consider your fixing surface

Every house is different, as are the options for installing your house number. While it’s tempting to always opt for a larger number to assist with visibility, if space for mounting your number is limited, you’ll want to ensure you’re not creating a visually crowded installation by choosing a number too large for the space.
Ensure there’s enough white space [the area between design elements] around the number so it doesn’t look crowded.
If your fixing surface is large, such as a large fence, then a large house number can work in well with the design.

Letterbox numbers

If you’re planning on fixing your number to a letterbox, then available space will be a key driver in deciding on the size. Typically a 100mm sized house number will be the largest you will be able to successfully install as a letterbox number. It’s also worth noting that our standard rods and spacers may not be suitable for use with a metal letterbox, and an install using glue may be required.

How large can a house number be?

The largest standard size house number we produce is 400mm high. For most people looking for a large house number this is adequate, however as our numbers are made to order, we can easily fabricate extra large house numbers, and often produce 600mm and at times 800mm height numbers.

The x factor

It’s important to note, there is a significant element of personal preference when it comes to choosing a house number. Some people simply prefer a smaller house number, while some prefer using the largest size available!
We love how a larger house number can act as a finishing touch to a house, however understand that this may not be suitable for all tastes or all homes. That’s why we offer a range of sizes, fonts and styles to suit all tastes.

In conclusion

To sum up, in selecting the right sized house number for your home, it’s important to weigh up both the functional and the aesthetic considerations. Your number size should be appropriate to fit the space where it will be mounted, should be large enough to be easily visible from the street, but also should fit within the style and size that matches the style of your home, and your personal taste.
If you have any questions regarding your house number, we’re always happy to help, feel free to contact us.