Address Number Plaques vs. House Numbers: Which Should You Choose for Style & Visibility?
Whether you’re moving into a new home or enhancing your current curb appeal, the question eventually comes up: Should you go with address number plaques or decorative house numbers?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through both options — how they compare in terms of cost, visibility, installation, and aesthetics — so you can choose the best way to display your house number.
What Are Address Plaques and Numbers?
Address number plaques are pre-designed or custom panels that display your full house number (and sometimes street name) on a single mounted sign. They’re typically made from materials like aluminum, brass, or composite stone and offer a uniform, polished appearance.
Great for: Traditional homes, upscale curb appeal, and easy installation.
Explore Address Number Plaques
What Are Decorative House Numbers?
Decorative house numbers are individual numerals you install directly on your home’s exterior. They come in a variety of finishes—brass, matte black, nickel—and can be arranged horizontally, vertically, or creatively spaced. For inspiration on different styles and materials, consider exploring these Creative House Number Ideas for Every Style from Better Homes & Gardens.
Great for: Modern homes, creative flexibility, fast shipping options.
Comparing Decorative Address Plaques and Numbers
| Feature | Address Plaques | Decorative House Numbers |
| Installation | ✅ Quick (2 screws) | ❌ Tedious (2 screws per digit) |
| Customization | ✅ High | ✅ Moderate |
| Shipping Speed | ❌ Often made to order | ✅ Ships fast |
| Mounting Flexibility | ❌ Standard layout | ✅ Creative layouts |
| Night Visibility | ✅ Better (reflective or lighted) | ❌ Requires external lighting |
| Cost (up to 5 digits) | ❌ Higher | ✅ More budget-friendly |
Benefits of Address Plaques and Numbers for Homeowners
Address plaques and numbers do more than just display your address. They enhance curb appeal, ensure emergency personnel can find your home quickly, and offer a range of customizable styles to match your home’s architecture.
Which One Is Best for You?
If you want a clean, elegant look with minimal effort, an address plaque is the way to go. They’re especially helpful for homes with long addresses or limited mounting space.
If you prefer a modern or DIY feel, individual house numbers are more flexible and often more affordable.
For nighttime visibility or HOA compliance, a lighted address plaque is hard to beat.
See Lighted Address Signs Like the QualArc Bayside
Recommended Address Displays
Here are some top products that our customers love:
Whitehall Oval Address Plaque
Timeless design in multiple finishes with large, easy-to-read numbers.
Shop This Plaque
Laguna 4″ House Numbers
Fast-shipping and modern, these numbers are ideal for clean, minimalist homes.
Browse Laguna Numbers
Whitehall Fast & Easy Arch Address Plaque
Elegant, weather-resistant, and customizable — the perfect mid-range plaque for fast installation with high contrast for visibility.
Shop the Arch Plaque Now
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s better: address plaques or house numbers?
That depends on your priorities. Plaques offer elegance and easy installation. House numbers provide design flexibility and lower cost.
Can I mount house numbers on a mailbox?
Yes, and we recommend weatherproof adhesive or screw-mounted options.
How can I make my house number visible at night?
According to USPS visibility guidelines, addresses should be clearly readable from the street at all times, including after dark. That’s why choosing a reflective or lighted address plaque is critical.
Are decorative house numbers easy to install?
They’re easy — but tedious. Each number typically requires two screws and precise alignment.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to displaying your home address, both address number plaques and decorative house numbers have their place. Choose what works best for your home style, budget, and visibility needs.
Need help choosing? Contact our experts or visit our MailboxWorks blog for more home address tips.
Tags: Address Plaques & House Numbers, Buying GuidesCategorized in: Design Inspiration & Gift Ideas
