Update Your House Numbers
Faded, outdated, or hard-to-read house numbers hurt your curb appeal and make it harder for guests and deliveries to find you. Modern numbers are an easy fix with big impact.
Quick Summary
30-45 minutes
$20-$80
Easy
Drill, level
Style Options
Floating / Standoff Numbers
$20-60Individual numbers mounted ½-1 inch off the wall with hidden hardware. Creates shadows that add dimension. The most popular modern choice. Works on siding, stucco, brick, or wood.
LED Backlit Numbers
$50-150Solar-powered or wired numbers that glow at night. Excellent visibility for emergency services and late deliveries. Some include dusk-to-dawn sensors.
Address Plaque
$30-100All numbers on one backing plate. Traditional look, easier installation (one mounting location). Available in metal, ceramic, wood, and stone.
Tile / Ceramic Numbers
$15-50Hand-painted tiles, often with decorative borders. Popular in Mediterranean, Spanish, and cottage styles. Can be framed or mounted individually.
Choosing the Right Size
Numbers should be visible from the street. The standard recommendation:
- • Minimum 4 inches tall for houses close to the street (under 50 feet)
- • 6-8 inches tall for typical suburban setbacks
- • 10+ inches tall for long driveways or rural properties
Some municipalities have minimum size requirements—check local codes if unsure.
Placement Tips
Beside the front door
The most common location. Place on the latch side of the door, about 4-5 feet up (eye level). Visible from the street and porch.
Above the garage
Good if your front door is recessed or not visible from the street. Use larger numbers since they're viewed from farther away.
On a post or pillar
At the end of the driveway or walkway. Best for long driveways or when the house is hidden from street view. Consider solar lighting.
Mailbox
If your mailbox is at the street, add numbers to both sides. Not sufficient alone—also have numbers visible on the house.
Installation: Floating Numbers
Create a Template
Most floating numbers include a paper template. If not, trace the numbers on paper, mark mounting hole locations, and tape to the wall. Use a level.
Drill Pilot Holes
Drill through the template marks. For masonry (brick, stucco), use a masonry bit. For wood siding, use a standard bit slightly smaller than the mounting hardware.
Insert Mounting Hardware
Most floating numbers use threaded studs. Apply silicone caulk to the holes (prevents water intrusion), then insert the studs. Let caulk cure if specified.
Attach Numbers
Slide each number onto its studs. Some designs screw on from behind, others use set screws on the side. Tighten according to instructions.
Pro Tips
- ✓Contrast is key. Dark numbers on light siding, light numbers on dark surfaces. If your siding is mid-tone, consider a plaque for contrast.
- ✓Match your style. Modern sans-serif fonts for contemporary homes, serif or script for traditional. Avoid overly decorative fonts that hurt readability.
- ✓Consider emergency access. Emergency responders need to find your house quickly. Reflective or backlit numbers can save critical time at night.
- ✓Coordinate finishes. Match the number finish to your door hardware or light fixtures—brushed nickel with brushed nickel, black with black.