News & Articles
Aluminum Posts for Access Control, Parking, and Signage Applications
Jul 9, 2026 Summarize With ChatGPT
Aluminum posts from Directional Systems are a versatile solution for mounting equipment, supporting infrastructure, and enhancing security across commercial, industrial, and transportation environments. Aluminum mounting posts offers a rigid, low-maintenance option that uses one product and optimizes it for each specific job. Aluminum posts offer simple installation, quick shipping, and long-lasting durability, making them a great option for mounting RFID readers, cameras, LED signs, and more.
What Is an Aluminum Post?
Aluminum posts are structures made from extruded aluminum and used to mount a variety of equipment, including access control devices, security system components, LED signs, and more. Directional Systems offers two sizes, 2 ¼” x 3” or 4” x 4” and three shapes, rectangular, half round, or round.
| View Post Options Now |
Common Industries That Use Aluminum Posts
Posts made of aluminum are a low-maintenance option that delivers durability, strength and reliability for mounting LED signs, RFID readers, access control equipment, and more. Aluminum offers the unique benefit of a high strength per unit of mass measurement. In simple terms, aluminum is strong despite its light weight. Less weight saves on shipping costs and aids in the ease of installation. Because of these benefits, aluminum posts are a great solution for installers working in busy areas where efficiency is paramount. Aluminum mounting posts are used in a variety of industries, including:
- Distribution Centers
- Warehouses
- Manufacturing Plants
- Airports
- Parking Garages
- Other Parking Facilities
- Universities
- Hospitals
| See How Posts Provide the Optimal Spot for Mounting in a Parking Garage |
Benefits of Using Aluminum Posts
| Feature | Aluminum | Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent – Does Not Rust | Moderate – Will Rust Over Time |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavy |
| Maintenance | Low | High |
| Cost Over Lifetime | Low | High |
Aluminum is a popular choice for posts used in commercial and industrial applications due to its light weight, strength, corrosion resistance, low maintenance requirements, and extensive customization options. Choosing aluminum is also choosing sustainability. The Aluminum Association describes aluminum as uniquely sustainable due to being light weight yet strong and durable, and its ability to be infinitely recycled. Additionally, these posts offer a clean, modern look suitable for commercial buildings, corporate campuses, manufacturing facilities, parking facilities, healthcare and educational institutions, among others. Since the posts can be painted to match branding or existing designs, they seamlessly blend into any environment.
Aluminum Posts Make Access Control and Security Simple
Common access control and security applications where a post would be used include:
- RFID Readers
- License Plate Recognition Cameras
- Gate Entry Systems
- Security Camera Mounting
- Vehicle Detection Equipment
The design of the post allows wiring to be routed internally, protecting it from weather, tampering, and accidental damage. Built with a single-, double-, or four-way mounting channel, the post easily integrates with any device and provides a sturdy, durable, and low-maintenance solution.
Using Aluminum Posts for Signage Applications
Posts make mounting LED signage stress-free and low-maintenance. Posts provide flexibility when adding signage because they can be installed in almost any location. With multiple configurations and multiple mounting slots, the posts can adapt to your needs. Wayfinding, parking, warning, drive-thru, and all other LED sign applications benefit from aluminum posts because they allow signs to be mounted virtually anywhere, providing a reliable solution for sign placement.
| Read the 5 Benefits of Adding LED Signage to Your Facility |
Common Considerations When Selecting a Post
Aluminum posts provide flexibility to any installation by being completely customizable to the unique demands of each project. Prior to installation, consider the following options to make sure the post is right for the job:
Mounting Method
The first thing to consider is how the post will be anchored or mounted – with a baseplate or direct burial. For easy installation, welded baseplates are used to attach the post to another material using appropriate fasteners. For direct burial, a minimum of 30” is recommended to maintain a rigid construction.
| View the Post Mounting Installation Instructions |
Environmental Conditions
Depending on environmental factors and the weight of the attachment, either a 4” x 4” or a 2 ¼” x 3” post should be selected. Both sizes are available in rectangular and half-round options. For larger signs, complex applications, or extreme environmental conditions (such as high-wind areas), more than one post may be required.
Additional Post Options
Another consideration is how many mounting channels you need. For double-face options, think “back-to-back”; a double-slotted post would be the best fit. Next, the post's length should be determined. For aluminum posts with baseplates, in-stock sizes include 40”, 60”, 90”, or 120”, with custom sizes available. For direct burial, in-stock sizes include 60”, 90”, and 120”, with custom sizes available.
| Feature | Options |
|---|---|
| Width | 2 ¼” x 3”, 4” x 4” |
| In-Stock Lengths | 40” (baseplate only), 60”, 90”, 120” |
| Mounting | Baseplate, Direct Burial |
| Finish | Duranodic Bronze (standard), Custom Color Options Are Available |
| Channels | Single, Double, 4-Slot |
For applications requiring a low-maintenance, durable post that ships quickly, Directional Systems has the aluminum post that’s right for the job. Contact our team today or request a free quote.
| Contact Our Team for Help Choosing the Right Post for You |
Frequently Asked Questions About Aluminum Posts
How long do aluminum posts last?
Because aluminum is incredibly rigid, low-maintenance, and rust-resistant, it won’t deteriorate like other metals or wood.
Are aluminum posts rust-resistant?
Yes, because aluminum doesn’t contain iron or other metals that oxidize, it won’t rust when exposed to oxygen, making it rust-resistant and low maintenance.
Are aluminum posts customizable?
Yes, aluminum posts are easily customizable, including options for length, paint color/finish, mounting options, and mounting channel slots.
| View Our Color Chart |
Can Aluminum Posts Support RFID Readers, Cameras, and Access Control Systems?
Yes, the posts are built to withstand environmental factors and are durable enough to secure RFID readers, cameras, or access control equipment. Most equipment is installed outdoors and exposed to harsh weather conditions, and aluminum provides a corrosion-resistant mounting solution for electronic equipment. These equipment mounting posts provide better resistance to vibration and wind loads, with internal space for power, wiring, or network cables.