Design & materials

Practical guides for better spaces.

Explore signage materials, solar control films and the details that shape architectural projects.

Fianco · Project planning guide

Reading solar film specifications and EPD documents

Start with the glass type and the outcome you need: daylight, glare control, solar heat rejection or a safety-film assessment. Visible light transmission (VLT) describes the light passing through the stated glass-and-film combination. Total solar energy rejection (TSER) is a different measure; an infrared rejection percentage alone does not describe all solar energy.

The supplied Sterling 50 sheet lists 49% VLT and 57% TSER on 4 mm single clear glass. Sterling 60 lists 64% VLT and 44% TSER for that configuration. These figures support a comparison of the stated assemblies; they are not a prediction of room temperature or annual electricity savings.

The downloadable environmental declaration is S-P-06660. Check its product list, scope and current registration when preparing a submission. An EPD does not automatically award LEED or BREEAM points: the project assessor must establish eligibility against the relevant scheme.

Read the manufacturer data sheets and EPD and review the environmental documentation scope.

Fianco · Project planning guide

Choosing finishes for exterior signage in Mumbai

Begin with the site exposure and desired appearance. A polished, brushed, coated or PVD-finished surface changes the way lettering reflects light. Screen images are useful for design direction, but a physical sample is the better reference for colour, gloss and texture.

Ask the fabricator to identify the metal grade, preparation, coating system and care requirements. Edges, seams, fixings and drainage also affect the finished assembly. A coating name alone cannot establish how a sign will perform at a particular exterior location.

Compare quotations against the same scope: material, thickness, finish, mounting details, illumination, access and written warranty. Record the approved sample and any agreed variation. Avoid assuming that one finish is maintenance-free or suitable for every coastal site.

Explore metal lettering and finish decisions or plan an illuminated sign.

Fianco · Project planning guide

Planning a window film enquiry for existing glazing

Share the glass type, thickness, dimensions and whether the unit is single, double or laminated. Photographs should show the panes, frames, shading and surrounding facade. Note the room use, orientation and the times when glare or discomfort is most noticeable.

Film changes the optical and thermal behaviour of a glazing assembly. Compatibility must be checked against the existing glass and manufacturer guidance; a universal temperature threshold or a generic demonstration cannot establish suitability for every window.

Ask the installer to state the proposed product, preparation method, edge and attachment details where applicable, and warranty conditions. Safety-film requirements need a separate assessment of the complete glass, frame and attachment system. Keep the final product sheets and installation records with the building documentation.

Compare the supplied film documentation and prepare a project enquiry.

Technical Symposia & CPD Seminars

Architectural Continuing Education

Discuss the material, signage and glazing questions in your project brief with Fianco.

Request In-House Technical Workshop

Signage planning library

Compare construction choices and prepare the information needed for your project brief.

Signage materials guide

Compare LED illumination, acrylic components and metal lettering for a signage brief. Use Fianco’s practical checklist for viewing distance, finishes and mounting.

Signage quotation checklist

Prepare a clear custom signage enquiry with artwork, dimensions, site photos, materials and access details. Follow Fianco’s Mumbai signboard quotation checklist.

Front-lit or halo-lit letters

Compare illuminated sign faces and halo-lit letters. Plan wall contrast, viewing distance, letter depth and servicing before choosing LED signage with Fianco.

LED colour and diffusion

Plan consistent illuminated signage by reviewing face materials, module layouts, colour samples and replacement access. A practical LED sign approval guide.

Choosing metal sign finishes

Compare brushed, polished and coated metal sign finishes through samples, lighting, cleaning needs and site exposure. Plan a clear finish specification.

PVD and powder coating

Compare PVD and powder-coated signage by the desired appearance, substrate, preparation, exposure and care. Use a sample-led specification checklist.

Acrylic thickness and depth

Understand acrylic sheet thickness, dimensional letter depth, illumination and fixing decisions before approving a sign. Prepare the right sample and drawings.

Mumbai exterior exposure

Review rain exposure, surface deposits, metal finishes, fixings and maintenance access for outdoor signage in Mumbai. Build a site-specific exterior brief.

Signage site survey

Prepare a signage survey with location photographs, dimensions, viewing distance, wall details, access and approvals. Use a clear sign-by-sign record.

Sign mounting and fixings

Review wall substrates, visible and concealed sign fixings, stand-offs, cable routes and access. Prepare a coordinated installation brief with Fianco.

Office reception signs

Plan reception logos, office directories and room signs with clear artwork, finish samples, wall details and installation coordination. Fianco’s office signage guide.

Retail shopfront planning

Plan a shop signboard around approach, fascia space, lighting, brand artwork and landlord approvals. A practical guide for Mumbai retail signage briefs.

Hotel wayfinding and room signs

Map guest journeys, destination names, directories, floor identifiers and room signs. Coordinate hospitality signage with interior design and operations.

Sign care and maintenance

Plan sign inspections, safe access, finish-specific cleaning and LED component records. Keep the information needed for practical signage maintenance.

Signage cost and scope

Understand how artwork, size, materials, lighting, fixings, access and installation scope affect signage quotations. Compare like-for-like briefs with Fianco.

Signage approvals and handover

Coordinate signage artwork, samples, site information, permissions and installation records. Follow a practical approval sequence for custom signs.