The letters turned out great! Nothing but compliments. I really appreciate the fast turnaround, the super craftsmanship and careful packaging. I could never have made a letter this well crafted and smooth with just urethane alone, or have done it this cost effectively. Thanks again, Gold Leaf Letters
Mike Lewis
Signworks of the Black Hills
Custer, SD
FAQ - Gold Leaf Letters Signs & Letters
The following are frequently asked questions about Gold Leaf Letters:
Q. Do you use real gold?
A. Yes, we use 23-1/2 kt. gold leaf. It comes in 3-3/8" square sheets which are 3/1,000,000" thick.
Q. How is the gold attached to the surface of the letters?
A. We use a product called gold size, which is the adhesive that holds the gold. It is a very high quality varnish that never gets hard and brittle. We also add color to the size to hide any minor imperfections.
Q. How long will the gold last?
A. It depends mainly on the environment where the product will be located. The two things that work to damage any finish are dirt and ultra-violet light. Since gold is an extremely light reflective substance, it will reflect ultra-violet lights. Occasional rain will rinse off the dirt; however, it will help extend the life to rinse the letters gently with clean water. The letters will last over 20 years in fairly good conditions.
Q. Can the letters be coated with anything to protect them?
A. Yes, some situations require clear coating, including all interior signs, so that they may be cleaned. The clear coat will diminish the brilliance of the letters by approximately 10%, but will defend them against physical damage.
Q. What materials are the letters themselves made of?
A. Stock letters are made of CAB (cellulose acetate butyrate), a plastic made from organic materials. Custom letters are made of PETB, a high impact resistant plastic.
Q. Can the letters be damaged in handling or installation?
A. Yes, because the leaf is so thin, it can be scratched or fingerprinted. We supply gloves with each order which must be used during the handling of the letters.
