LED channel lettering is an efficient and cost-effective solution for business signage, unlike neon which is susceptible to breakage.
Optics-based modules take advantage of LEDs’ natural beam angle and redirect it laterally, enabling a single string of LEDs to illuminate three to five-inch channel letters with ease.
The Basics
LED channel letters are illuminated individual letters that can be customized in many shapes, fonts, and sizes to match any business logo – day or night! LED channel letters have become one of the most sought-after forms of signage as they provide high visibility at all times of day while acting as brand ambassadors who spread your location or product at every passerby angle.
Illuminated channel letter signs typically feature front illumination with aluminum back, return, and face panels constructed of 3/16″ acrylic. Some models even utilize halo lighting utilizing aluminum face and return panels backed with clear acrylic that illuminate the wall behind them.
Keep in mind that signs are exposed to various environmental elements, including UV radiation and temperatures. Signs near oceans may be exposed to salt air which accelerates material deterioration and impacts its lifespan – impacting your overall costs as a result. High-quality signage products may help mitigate UV damage as well as weather and temperature fluctuations for longer lifespan of signs.
Customization
Customization options exist to make your sign stand out and look individualistic. Channel letters typically consist of acrylic or polycarbonate with aluminum sheeting designed to withstand weather elements; their backs can then be painted in standard Pantone shades that align with your brand.
Front-lit channel letters feature translucent acrylic that’s illuminated with LED tube lighting for an eye-catching frontlit appearance that’s easy to read from long distances while drawing people in.
Luminous channel signs are popularly used in retail locations, but can also be utilized by restaurants, bars and other businesses that remain open after dark. Custom logos, font styles and sizes can help your business stand out from its competition and draw new customers in. You may even choose whether to have the letters rimmed or unrimmed for added design elements.
Lighting Options
Illuminated channel letters provide a fantastic way to attract customers during the nighttime hours, especially at retail locations. Front lit, reverse lit or backlit with halo lighting can all attract customer interest but front-lit letters tend to be the go-to choice of business owners as their acrylic face light up daily for maximum impact and draw customers’ attention day or night.
These signs typically feature aluminum backs which can be painted to suit your brand, or clear polycarbonate frames which feature translucent vinyl to add some flair and color.
Direct mount channels feature an elegant architectural appearance. Attaching to buildings using non-corrosive studs with spacers to achieve their signature lighting effect. Also offering more permanent solutions than other mounting methods.
Installation
Channel letters make an ideal retail signage solution, offering more depth than flat cut and cast metal letters while being illuminated from within. Commonly installed on sign panels or monuments, unlit three-dimensional graphic sign elements placed therein are often called dimensional letters.
Standard front lit channel letters feature aluminum back and sides (known as returns). One return wraps around the back to create the letter can, which can then be customized with LED modules, transformers and whips to complete its design.
One of the key factors affecting how long an illuminated sign will remain functional is its location. Signs that are near water are subject to frequent salt air exposure which hastens material degradation. Exposure to cold weather also shortens its lifespan significantly.
