How To Install a Custom Statue?

By CanvasChampJuly, 21 2025July, 21 2025Comment

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Installing a custom statue is an exciting moment. It adds beauty, meaning, and personality to any space. However, to ensure it remains both secure and visually appealing for many years, proper installation is essential. A single misstep could result in a scratch, crack, or even more damage.

Every material is different. Bronze is strong but needs care. Fiber is light but sensitive to the weather. Marble and sandstone are beautiful but heavy and fragile. This guide will help you do just that with clear and simple steps.

What to Prepare Before You Begin Statue Installation?

Preparing your tools and workspace ahead of time is key to a smooth and safe statue installation. A little planning can help prevent accidents and damage during unboxing or placement.

Essential Tools You’ll Need

Safety gloves to protect your hands and the statue’s surface
Hammer and pry bar for opening the crate
Pliers to remove nails or staples from the packaging
Soft cloth for gently wiping off dust or packing residue

Optional Equipment for Heavy Statues

Hand truck for mid-weight statues that need to be rolled into place
Hydraulic lift for larger, heavier pieces that need to be raised vertically
Forklift with padded forks for statues made of marble or sandstone that require extra care during handling

Prepare the Installation Area

Choose a clean, flat, and stable surface to unpack the crate
Set up as close as possible to the statue’s final location to reduce unnecessary lifting or shifting
Make sure there’s enough room for people or equipment to move safely around the area

Manpower Planning

Statues vary widely in weight. Some can be lifted by two people, while others may need a full crew or mechanical support.
Check the material and size before unboxing and decide in advance how many people or what kind of support you’ll need.

Proper prep avoids common mishaps like chips, cracks, or strained backs. It's worth a few extra minutes upfront.

Unpacking the Custom Statue: Step-by-Step

Unpacking is the first hands-on moment with your custom statue. This is where careful handling matters most. Follow these steps to make sure everything stays safe and secure.

1. Set the Crate in Place

Place the crate on a flat, stable surface close to where the statue will be installed. Avoid uneven flooring or soft ground that could cause the crate to shift while you open it.

2. Open the Crate Carefully

Use a hammer and pry bar to remove nails or staples from the top. Take off the top panel first, then slide away the sides without forcing them. Work slowly to avoid putting pressure on the statue inside.

3. Lift the Statue Upright

Once exposed, lift the statue vertically and from the base. Never tilt or drag it out of the foam or crate. Use soft gloves for grip and protection. Watch out for extended parts like hands or edges that may be delicate.

4. Inspect for Damage

Before placing the statue, check it from all angles. Look for chips, cracks, or loose details that might have happened while moving the statue. Don’t proceed with installation if you notice any damage.

Never drag a statue across the floor, especially if it’s made of marble, sandstone, or heavy fiber. These materials can crack or chip even with a small shift.

Instead, use a hand truck, moving dolly, or forklift with padded forks to safely move the statue to its final spot. For smaller pieces, a two-person lift works well if handled from the base.

Material-Wise Statue Installation Guide

Different materials require different installation approaches. Factors like weight, durability, and surface sensitivity all play a role in how each statue should be handled. Below is a complete guide based on the most common custom statue materials: Bronze, Fiberglass, and Marble/Sandstone.

Bronze Statues

Installation Notes:

Place on flat, stable ground (indoor or outdoor)
Suitable for all-weather conditions
Can be positioned directly on pedestals, floors, or concrete bases

Handling & Tools:

Weight range: 15 to 750 lbs
Use a two-person lift for smaller sizes
For heavier pieces, use a hand truck or forklift with padded forks

Care Tips:

Wipe with a soft cloth regularly
Apply a thin coat of wax every few months to preserve patina and prevent corrosion

Fiberglass Statues

Installation Notes:

Ideal for both indoor and outdoor display
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and moisture
Place on dry, even surfaces like patios, tiles, or platforms

Handling & Tools:

Weight range: 8 to 350 lbs
Smaller pieces: 2–3 person lift
Larger pieces: use a forklift for safe movement

Care Tips:

Clean with mild soap and water only
For outdoor use, apply a UV-resistant sealant to prevent fading or cracking

Marble & Sandstone Statues

Installation Notes:

Best displayed on stone or concrete foundations
Avoid soft surfaces like grass or gravel
Keep surface level and free from standing water

Handling & Tools:

Weight range: 33 to 1433 lbs
These statues are heavy and fragile
Always use a hydraulic lift or forklift with padded forks
Never drag or tilt the statue while lifting

Care Tips:

Use only a damp, soft cloth for cleaning
Avoid any acidic or abrasive chemicals
Apply a stone sealant once a year if placed outdoors to protect against moisture, algae, and dirt buildup

Final Placement Tips

After unpacking and lifting the statue, placing it correctly is the last but most important step. The right base and surroundings can protect the statue and bring out its best look.

Make Sure the Surface is Level

A flat and stable surface keeps the statue balanced and reduces the risk of tipping or leaning. Use a spirit level if needed.

Choose a Strong Base

Indoor: Hardwood, tile, or marble flooring works well
Outdoor: Use concrete, stone slabs, or a pre-built pedestal
Avoid grass, soil, or gravel — they shift over time and can cause cracks or uneven pressure

Use Felt or Anti-Slip Pads (Indoors)

Place soft pads under the base to protect floors and help the statue stay in place.

Protect Against Weather (Outdoors)

Make sure there’s no standing water around the base
If needed, build a slightly raised platform to improve drainage
Place the statue in a spot with some shade or partial cover if it’s made of fiberglass or sandstone

Secure the Statue if Needed

For tall or heavy statues, especially outdoors, use anchor bolts or brackets to secure the base. This adds extra safety in areas with wind, foot traffic, or pets.

Conclusion

A well-installed statue looks beautiful and lasts longer. Take it slow, use the right tools, and handle it with care. That’s all it takes to get it right.