Curb Number Stencils: Standard Sizes, Reflective Paint & a 20‑Minute Layout Method

Curb number stencils make addresses easy to see, fast to paint, and consistent across a neighborhood. In this guide, you will learn the standard sizes to use, the best reflective paint options for night visibility, and a simple 20-minute layout method any contractor or DIYer can apply. If you want clearer curb addresses that last, keep reading and get started today.

What Are Curb Number Stencils and Why They Matter

Curb number stencils are reusable templates that help you paint crisp, uniform address numbers on concrete or masonry curbs. They solve two problems at once. First, they make numbers legible and consistent so drivers, delivery teams, and emergency responders can spot an address quickly. Second, they speed up production so you spend less time masking, painting, and touching up each location.

• Faster routing for deliveries and rideshare pickups

• Better visibility at night or in rain with reflective systems

• Professional, uniform look for HOAs and property managers

• Durable, repeatable results for contractors and municipalities

With quality curb number stencils and the right paint, you can transform hard-to-read addresses into clean, high-contrast markings that stand out from the street.

Standard Sizes for Curb Number Stencils

Most curb numbers fall between 3 inches and 6 inches tall, depending on local codes, curb height, and viewing distance. The key is to balance visibility with the available curb face and any HOA or municipal guidelines. Always verify local requirements before you start.

Common curb number stencil sizes include:

• 3 inch digits for tight curb faces or short viewing distances

• 4 inch digits for typical residential curbs and HOAs

• 5 inch digits for enhanced legibility from moving vehicles

• 6 inch digits for high visibility, corner lots, or wider setbacks

Many professionals also add a background panel for contrast. A white rectangle with black digits is a common standard that improves readability in daylight and at night. Some communities allow a black panel with white digits for areas with light-colored concrete. Check your local rules for approved color schemes.

Stencil material thickness matters too. In the pavement marking industry, two thicknesses are common:

• 1/16 inch LDPE for lightweight, flexible, easy-to-handle stencils

• 1/8 inch LDPE or UHMW for heavy-duty, ultra-stable stencils that resist warping

Choose a character style that is bold and blocky rather than thin or stylized. A simple block font produces clean edges and higher legibility from the road.

Materials That Last: LDPE and UHMW

At 1-800-Stencil, curb number stencils are manufactured from durable plastics that resist cracking, curling, and solvent damage. Materials include Low-Density Polyethylene and Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene, each with strengths suited to different users.

• LDPE stencils are flexible, budget-friendly, and easy to clean

• UHMW stencils are ultra tough, hold flat on rough surfaces, and last through heavy use

Proper care extends stencil life. Wipe wet paint off right after the spray pass, or let it dry and gently flex the stencil to flake off residue. Store stencils flat or hang them vertically. Avoid leaving them in hot vehicles for extended periods to reduce warping. With good care, quality curb number stencils will serve hundreds of uses.

The Best Reflective Paint Options for Curb Numbers

Reflective curb numbers improve nighttime visibility in a big way. To achieve that bright pop under headlights, you can use one or both of the following approaches.

High-Contrast Base Colors

A white background rectangle with black digits is a proven combination. The light base reflects some ambient light. The dark numbers are easy to read. This option is simple and works in most communities.

Glass Beads for Retroreflectivity

For true retroreflectivity, broadcast glass beads onto the paint while it is still wet. The beads embed into the surface, creating a reflective effect that shines when headlights hit. Type I beads are common for low-speed residential streets. Type III beads are larger and brighter for higher-demand conditions. Follow the paint manufacturer’s recommendations for bead drop rates. For curb numbers, a light, even sprinkle over the digits or the white base is usually enough. Avoid piling beads, which can cause clumping and reduce the crisp look.

Paint Types That Work

• Waterborne traffic paint for fast dry times and easy cleanup

• Solvent-based traffic paint for cooler or humid conditions

• Aerosol marking paints for small jobs or quick touch-ups

If you want the brightest nighttime result, apply a white base panel. While the base is still wet, broadcast glass beads. After it dries, place your curb number stencils and add black digits. This sequence keeps the numbers crisp and the background reflective. Alternatively, some users bead the black digits, but beading the base panel is usually cleaner and more legible.

Tools and Prep Checklist

Successful curb number applications start with good prep and the right tools. Here is a compact list to keep in your truck or kit.

• Curb number stencils in your chosen size

• Background panel stencil sized to your digits

• Masking paper or painter’s tape for clean edges

• Chalk line, tape measure, and a small level

• Low-tack adhesive spray to hold stencils down

• Wire brush, blower, and rags for surface prep

• Pressure washer or degreaser for heavy contaminants

• Primer for chalky or porous concrete if needed

• Traffic paint or aerosol paint in approved colors

• Glass beads for reflective systems

• Gloves, eye protection, and a respirator when spraying

The 20-Minute Layout Method for Fast, Clean Results

Overview

This repeatable method helps you produce crisp curb numbers in about 20 minutes per address once you are set up. The times below are estimates. Weather, surface condition, and local rules may change your sequence slightly.

1. Site check and cleaning, 4 minutes. Confirm the address and placement location. Brush the curb face to remove dust and grit. If wet or oily, dry and degrease. Clear debris with a blower.

2. Measure and mark, 2 minutes. Use a tape measure and chalk to mark a level reference line. Ensure the panel will fit within the curb height with at least a half-inch margin above and below the digits.

3. Mask the panel, 2 minutes. Place the background panel stencil or mask a clean rectangle with tape and paper. Typical panel sizes run 12 to 20 inches wide, depending on digit height and spacing.

4. Apply the base color, 2 minutes. Spray a light coat of white for the background panel. Two light passes are better than one heavy pass. Maintain even distance to avoid puddles.

5. Add glass beads while wet, 1 minute. Lightly broadcast beads over the still-wet white panel for reflectivity. Shake the container gently and move in a smooth swing for even coverage.

6. Place curb number stencils, 3 minutes. Once the base has set enough to handle overspray protection, position your digit stencils. Use a spacer bar or visual guide to keep kerning consistent. A light mist of low-tack adhesive on the back of the stencils reduces edge bleed on rough concrete.

7. Spray the numbers, 3 minutes. Apply black paint with two light passes to avoid bleed-under. Remove the stencils carefully while paint is tacky to keep edges sharp. If you prefer, you can also lift stencils once fully dry depending on your workflow.

8. Unmask and inspect, 3 minutes. Pull tape and paper at a low angle. Touch up any fuzzed edges with a small brush. Sweep away excess beads. Photograph the finished address for records.

Production tip: If you have multiple addresses, run in batches. Spray all white base panels first, bead them, then cycle back to place stencils and spray numbers. This assembly-line approach keeps you moving and reduces downtime during drying.

Application Tips for Long-Lasting Curb Numbers

• Paint in dry weather with pavement temperatures ideally between 50 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit

• If concrete is chalky or very porous, use a masonry or traffic primer to lock down dust

• Apply two light coats instead of one heavy coat to prevent runs and bleed-under

• Choose the highest contrast scheme allowed by your city or HOA

• Let the paint cure per the manufacturer before traffic contact where applicable

• Store stencils flat and clean them after each day to extend life

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Painting over dirt, dust, or moisture that prevents proper adhesion

• Skipping the background panel on dark or mottled concrete that reduces contrast

• Overloading paint at stencil edges, which causes bleeding

• Using cardboard templates that warp and hold paint

• Beading dry paint, which results in beads shedding off the surface

• Ignoring local color or size rules for curb markings

Compliance, HOA, and Municipal Notes

Many communities outline curb address size, color, and placement. Some specify 4 inch black numbers on a white reflective background. Others require a certain offset from driveways or hydrants. In HOA neighborhoods, design standards may require consistent fonts and spacing. Before you begin, check local codes and HOA documents. If you are adding other markings such as fire lane wording or accessible symbols nearby, make sure to use ADA compliant and approved traffic colors for those elements. When in doubt, request written guidance from the authority having jurisdiction.

Why Choose 1-800-Stencil for Curb Number Stencils

1-800-Stencil is a trusted source for high-quality pavement marking stencils, including curb number stencils, with a long track record in the industry. Based in Alsip, Illinois, the company focuses on precision manufacturing, thoughtful design, and responsive customer support. After being acquired by RAE Products & Chemicals Corporation, 1-800-Stencil pairs its stencil expertise with RAE’s pavement marking products for a complete field-ready solution. That means you can order stencils, paints, and glass beads in one place with confidence.

• Alphabet and Number Kits for clear, consistent lettering

• Arrow Stencils for easy traffic direction

• Handicap Stencils that meet ADA standards

• Retail Stencils for chain-specific branding and layouts

• DOT Stencils aligned with state and city specifications

• Wording Stencils like NO PARKING and FIRE LANE

• Custom Stencils for unique HOA logos or address formats

Stencils are crafted from LDPE and UHMW plastics for long life, smooth edges, and quick cleaning. Whether you need a standard 4 inch curb number set or a custom font and size, the team at 1-800-Stencil can help you choose the best option for your scope and budget.

How to Order Curb Number Stencils and Supplies

Ordering is simple and fast. Decide on digit height, panel size, and material thickness. Identify your paint system and whether you want a reflective background with glass beads. If you serve an HOA or municipality, confirm required colors and layout before you buy.

• Choose your digit size based on viewing distance and curb height

• Select LDPE for flexible use or UHMW for heavy duty performance

• Pick a block-style font for readability from the street

• Add a background panel stencil for uniform contrast

• Bundle traffic paint and glass beads for a complete kit

1-800-Stencil offers helpful guidance, fast shipping, and custom options. To get started, call 1-800-STENCIL or email info@1800stencil.com. Ask about bulk pricing and project kits that include curb number stencils, a background panel, paint, and beads from RAE Products for one-stop convenience.

FAQs About Curb Number Stencils

What size curb number stencils should I use?

Most residential projects use 4 inch digits. If the curb face is tall or set back from the street, 5 inch or 6 inch digits can improve legibility. Always verify local requirements before you buy.

Do I need a background panel?

While not always required, a white background panel dramatically improves contrast and readability. It also provides a consistent look from house to house. Many HOAs and cities prefer or require a reflective white background with dark digits.

How do I make the numbers reflective?

Broadcast glass beads onto wet paint so beads embed and create retroreflectivity. Most users bead the white background panel, then apply black digits on top for maximum contrast and clean edges.

Which paint is best for curb numbers?

Waterborne traffic paint is a reliable, quick-drying choice in fair weather. Solvent-based traffic paint can help in cooler or humid conditions. Aerosols work for small jobs or touch-ups. Use high-contrast colors for readability.

How long does each address take?

With the 20-minute layout method and all tools on hand, you can complete an address in about 20 minutes. Production speeds increase when you batch steps across multiple locations.

Can I order custom fonts or logos?

Yes. 1-800-Stencil offers custom stencils. You can match an HOA logo, a specific font, or a unique number layout to meet standards or branding requirements.

How long do stencils last?

With proper cleaning and storage, LDPE and UHMW stencils can last for hundreds of uses. Avoid heavy buildup, clean regularly, and store flat or hung to prevent warping.

Get Started Today

Curb number stencils make address marking faster, cleaner, and more consistent. Choose a standard size that fits your curb, pick a high-contrast color scheme, and follow the 20-minute layout method to produce crisp, reflective numbers that stand out day and night. For professional-grade curb number stencils, background panels, traffic paints, and glass beads, contact 1-800-Stencil. The team in Alsip, Illinois is ready to help you select the right products for your project.

Call 1-800-STENCIL or email info@1800stencil.com to request a quote or place an order. Better visibility starts at the curb.