Gauge or gage is a confusing term….kind of like fiction (not real) and non-fiction (not not real)….hmmm it’s something that seems opposite from it’s definition. Let SirMetalman explain in easy language. Gauge in our sign situation refers to the thickness of sheet metal. We often think of it as a measurement like length- the bigger the number, the longer the distance.  But this is misleading. Instead think of it as a density! See examples of the circles in a box. Only 8 of the larger circles fit in the box where as 18 of the smaller circles fit in the box. Example of 8 circles in a box Pretend gauge is like the number of circles in the box. We have 8 circles so the gauge is 8. Example of 18 circles in a box Pretend gauge is like the number of circles in the box. We have 18 circles so the gauge is 18.Observe how the 8 gauge metal is thicker than the 18 gauge metal. Observe how the 8 gauge metal is thicker than the 18 gauge metal. Example of 8 gauge metal See how the smaller number gauge "8" is thicker than the higher gauge number Example of 18 gauge metal See how the higher number gauge "18" is thinner than the lower gauge number Metal sign gauge conversion chart Metal Sign Most Common Sizes Gauge Conversion Chart These are the thickness sizes for common logo business and home metal signs. What gauge used depends on many factors: Placement of sign Total Size of sign Number of panels used on custom sign Installation area SirMetalman is an expert in custom metal signs and will find the best gauge for your custom made sign.