A box sign is one of the most recognizable types of commercial signage.  These versatile storefront signs are used by businesses across nearly every industry because they’re durable, customizable, and easy to see from a distance.  But what are box signs, and why are they so popular?  If you’re considering new exterior signage, here’s what you need to know.

What are box signs?

A box sign is a three-dimensional, enclosed sign cabinet with a durable aluminum frame and acrylic or polycarbonate face.  Using high-quality vinyl lettering or digital printing, text or graphics are applied to the translucent face, often displaying a business name or logo.  

The sign can be mounted directly to a building, installed on a raceway, or attached to an existing sign structure.  Many modern box signs include energy-efficient LED lighting that illuminates the sign from within, making them easy to see both day and night.

You’ll often hear the terms box sign and cabinet sign used interchangeably because they refer to the same style of sign. While some people prefer one name over the other, both describe an enclosed sign cabinet designed to attract customers by showcasing a business’s brand. The term light box is also commonly used when referring to an illuminated version of this signage.

Why are box signs so popular?

Box signs have remained a popular choice for businesses because they are cost-effective, highly visible, and durable.  Their versatility makes them an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes in virtually any commercial setting.

Some of their biggest advantages include:

• Visibility: Large, eye-catching graphics help businesses stand out and make it easier for customers to find their location.
• LED Illumination: Internal LED lighting keeps graphics bright, clear, and easy to read both day and night.
• Durability: Constructed from sturdy materials like aluminum and acrylic, box signs are designed to withstand outdoor exposure, including rain, snow, wind, and UV exposure, providing years of reliable performance.  A professionally manufactured box sign can often last 10-20 years or more with proper care.
• Low Maintenance: Box signs require only occasional cleaning and routine maintenance to keep them looking and performing their best.
• Cost-Effective: Box signs feature a simple cabinet structure that typically costs less to build and install than complex custom channel letters.  Their long lifespan, relatively low maintenance requirements, and energy-efficient LED lighting make them a smart long-term investment.
• Customizable Design: Box signs are available in a wide variety of sizes and colours, and they can be customized to display your business’s name and logo.
• Professional Appearance: Box signs create a polished, professional appearance that creates a strong first impression and helps reinforce your business brand.  

How can box signs be customized?

One of the biggest advantages of box signs is their versatility.  Every sign can be customized to reflect your business’s unique brand and specific needs for your location.

Customization options include:

• Size: Box signs can be manufactured in a wide variety of sizes to suit different buildings and visibility requirements.  
• Shape and Depth: Box signs are available in different cabinet depths, depending on the desired appearance and installation requirements.  While most are rectangular, custom shapes can also be created to achieve a unique look or complement a building’s design.  
• Colours and Finishes: Both the metal frame and sign face can be matched to your brand, creating a professional, cohesive appearance.
• Lettering and Logos: Lettering, logos, and graphics complete the design and help reinforce your brand identity.
• Illumination: Box signs are available with or without internal LED lighting, depending on your business’s needs.  Illuminated signs improve visibility after dark, helping your business stand out around the clock.
• Mounting Options: Box signs can be installed directly onto a building, on a raceway, or added to existing signage, such as a pylon or monument sign.

With so many customization options available, box signs can be tailored to suit businesses of all sizes, from small storefronts to large commercial properties.  

A professionally manufactured box sign is a practical and effective way to showcase your brand and help customers find your business.  At National Neon Signs, we specialize in creating high-quality custom signage designed to help businesses make a lasting impression.  Contact us today for more information!

Wood signs are timeless. Their appeal can add warmth, character, and a natural aesthetic to a business or property. From rustic storefronts to restaurants, campgrounds, and other outdoor spaces, a wood sign offers plenty of design possibilities. 

However, outdoor signs are often exposed to snow, rain, wind, sunlight, changing temperatures, and other harsh weather conditions. Not all woods perform equally well outdoors, and choosing the right type of wood can make a big difference in how well your sign holds up to the elements. 

So, what type of wood is best for outdoor signage? Let’s look at some of the most popular options and what you should consider before choosing one. 

What type of wood is best for outdoor signs?

One of the best all-around choices for wood outdoor signs is western red cedar, which balances durability and cost-effectiveness. However, no one type of wood is best for every outdoor sign. Some other popular options include redwood, MDO plywood, and teak.

Let’s take a closer look at each type:

Cedar

Cedar is a popular choice for outdoor signs because it naturally resists moisture, rot, and insects. It is relatively lightweight and easy to work with, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of sign designs. 

Western red cedar, in particular, is well suited to outdoor signage. Its attractive grain and warm colour can create a natural or rustic appearance, while the wood can be painted or stained to achieve a variety of looks.

Redwood

Redwood is another durable option for outdoor signs because it naturally resists moisture and decay. Its rich, reddish colour and distinctive grain can give a sign a warm, natural look, and it can be stained or finished to enhance its natural beauty. However, redwood can be more expensive and less readily available in some regions, so it’s less practical for certain projects.

MDO Plywood

MDO (medium-density overlay) plywood is the industry standard material for painted outdoor signs. It features an exterior-grade plywood core with a weather-resistant resin overlay, creating a smooth, durable surface that helps resist cracking and warping. This smooth surface makes MDO particularly well suited to paint, lettering, and graphics.

Teak

Teak is an exceptionally durable hardwood that naturally resists moisture, insects, and decay. Its dense structure and natural oils allow it to withstand severe weather for decades, and it has a distinctive appearance that develops a unique character as it ages. However, it is generally more expensive than other wood options, making it a better fit for premium or specialty projects.

Do outdoor wood signs require maintenance?

Yes, outdoor wood signs require some maintenance to keep them looking their best and to help protect them from the elements. Before a wood sign is installed outdoors, it should be properly finished for exterior use. Depending on the type of wood and the desired signage, this may include applying exterior paint, stain, or another type of protective finish. These coatings help protect the wood from moisture, sunlight, and general weathering.

Once installed, wood signs should be inspected periodically for fading, peeling, cracking, moisture damage, or other signs of wear. Keeping the sign clean also helps maintain its appearance. Over time, the finish may need to be touched up, recoated, or refinished to continue providing protection. The frequency of maintenance depends on the type of finish, the type of wood, and how much exposure the sign receives to sunlight and moisture.

How long do outdoor wood signs last?

Outdoor wood signs last anywhere from 5 to 20 years or more, depending heavily on the type of wood, the quality of the finish, and local weather conditions. Durable woods such as cedar, redwood, and teak can provide particularly long service when properly maintained. Signs exposed to direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperature changes may require more frequent maintenance or refinishing to help expand their lifespan. With the right material, proper care, and regular maintenance, some wood signs can last for several decades.

Looking for a durable, attractive outdoor sign? At National Neon Signs, we can help you choose the right materials and create a product built to last. Contact us today to get started.

Outdoor signs need to withstand a lot of weather exposure. Snow, ice, sunlight, wind, and changing temperatures can all wear on a sign over time. Rain and moisture can be especially challenging, as water exposure can cause some materials to warp, swell, corrode, or deteriorate.

So, what is the best waterproof material for outdoor signs? Several materials perform well in wet outdoor environments, including aluminum, aluminum composite material (ACM), PVC, and acrylic. The best choice might depend on the type of sign and its specific application. 

In this guide, we’ll get into some of the most common materials used for outdoor signs and how they hold up when exposed to water and the elements. 

What does waterproof mean?

When a sign material is described as waterproof, it means it can withstand exposure to water without absorbing moisture or suffering water-related damage. This is particularly important for outdoor signs that may be exposed to rain, snow, and humidity.

What is the best waterproof material for outdoor signs?

Aluminum composite material is generally considered one of the best choices for waterproof outdoor signs. Its combination of moisture resistance, durability, lightweight construction, and versatility makes it well suited to many outdoor applications. However, it isn’t the only material that can perform well in wet conditions. Let’s take a closer look at ACM and some other common options:

Aluminum Composite Material (ACM) 

ACM is a composite material made of aluminum sheets bonded around a lightweight core that naturally resists corrosion and doesn’t absorb water. It’s one of the best waterproof materials for outdoor signs because its durable, moisture-resistant construction helps prevent warping and fading. 

Aluminum

Strong and lightweight, aluminum can also naturally resist corrosion and not absorb water. Its durability makes it ideal for parking signs, street signs and other heavy-duty outdoor applications. 

PVC

Known for being lightweight and cost-effective, this plastic is naturally waterproof. That said, prolonged heat and direct sun exposure can cause it to warp over time. 

Acrylic

Acrylic is a non-porous plastic that resists rain and UV exposure without rotting or rusting. The glass-like finish makes it popular for sleek, modern signage. That said, it’s more prone to scratches and impact damage than aluminum or ACM.

Is wood signage waterproof?

Wood is not naturally waterproof, and raw wood signage can rot, swell, warp, or mold if left outside without protection. However, wood can be used for outdoor signage if it is properly treated, sealed, and maintained to help protect it from moisture and other elements. Some businesses choose wood for its natural, rustic appearance, which can give a sign a warm, distinctive look. However, wood signs typically require more maintenance than naturally waterproof materials to keep them looking their best and performing well outdoors.

Does waterproof mean weatherproof?

Not necessarily. Waterproof refers specifically to a material’s ability to withstand exposure to water and moisture, while weatherproof is a broader term that refers to a material’s ability to withstand a range of outdoor conditions. A weatherproof sign may need to resist not only rain but also UV exposure, wind, snow, freezing temperatures, and changing weather conditions. For outdoor signage, it’s important to consider both waterproofing and overall weather resistance when choosing a material. 

Choosing the right material for your outdoor sign can help it stand up to rain and other weather conditions. At National Neon Signs, we can help you find the right material for your sign. Contact us today to get started. 

Choosing the right material for an outdoor business sign goes beyond appearances. Your sign needs to withstand rain, snow, sun, wind, and fluctuating temperatures, while still looking good and representing your business well. 

So, what is the best material for an outdoor sign? The answer depends on the type of sign you need, where it will be installed, and how long you want it to last. Some materials are better suited to permanent signage, while others are ideal for temporary promotions or other specific applications. 

Here are some of the most common outdoor sign materials and what might make each one a good choice for your business. 

What is the best material for outdoor business signs?

There isn’t a universal material that works for every outdoor business sign. Aluminum and aluminum composite are some of the most durable signage materials, making them great options for permanent storefronts. However, PVC, acrylic, and wood can also work. Let’s take a closer look at each material and what makes it a good fit for different types of outdoor signage.

Aluminum

Aluminum is one of the most popular materials for outdoor business signage because it is lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust, warping, and fading, making it well suited to changing weather conditions. It’s ideal for permanent storefront signs, building signage, and year-round outdoor branding where durability and relatively low maintenance are a priority. Aluminum offers a practical combination of longevity, versatility, and a professional appearance.

Aluminum Composite

Aluminum composite material (ACM) is widely considered one of the best choices for outdoor business signs because it combines a lightweight design with exceptional rigidity and weather resistance. Made from layers of aluminum bonded around a solid polyethylene plastic core, ACM provides a smooth, durable surface that is ideal for custom graphics and lettering. Its clean appearance and ability to withstand outdoor conditions make it suitable for larger building signs, fascia signs, and other exterior applications.

PVC Board

PVC board and other rigid plastics are versatile options for outdoor business signage, offering a lightweight, smooth surface that works well for a variety of custom designs. It’s a good fit for temporary or semi-permanent signs, promotional signage, and when you want a clean, professional appearance without the weight or cost of heavier materials. While PVC may not be as durable as aluminum for long-term exposure to harsh outdoor conditions, it can be an affordable option for many businesses. 

Acrylic

Acrylic is a popular choice for outdoor business signage when the goal is a sleek, polished appearance. While it can be more susceptible to cracking and impact damage than some other sign materials, acrylic can be a great choice for upscale, high-end storefront signs and other modern business signage. 

Wood

Wood is a great choice for businesses looking for a warm, natural, or handcrafted appearance. It can be especially well-suited to restaurants, breweries, boutiques, or other businesses where a rustic aesthetic fits the brand. With the right type of wood, protective finish, and maintenance, wood signs can provide a distinctive and long-lasting outdoor display.

What should you consider when choosing a sign material?

One material won’t work for every business, and you’ll need to consider where your sign will be installed, how large it needs to be, and how much maintenance it will require. Your budget and the overall look you want to achieve will also help determine which material is the right fit for your business.

When choosing a sign material, consider:

• Location: Will the sign be fully exposed to sun, rain, snow, and wind? Will it have some protection? Consider how well the material will hold up over time without cracking, warping, fading, or deteriorating.
• Size: Larger signs may require a more rigid material to provide the necessary support and stability.
• Appearance: Choose a material that complements your business and the look you want to create.
• Maintenance: Some materials require more care or occasional refinishing than others.
• Lifespan: A temporary promotional sign has different requirements than a permanent storefront sign.
• Budget: Compare the upfront cost with the expected lifespan and maintenance needs to determine the best overall value.

Are outdoor signs waterproof?

Yes, most outdoor signs are designed to withstand rain, snow, and moisture, but some materials are more waterproof than others. Aluminum and aluminum composite material offer excellent moisture resistance, while acrylic and PVC are also well-suited to outdoor use. Wood can be used outdoors, but it requires the right protective finish and regular maintenance to help prevent moisture damage. 

Choosing the best signage material for your business’s needs can make a big difference in how your outdoor sign looks and performs over time. At National Neon Signs, we can help you find the right option for your location, style, and budget. Contact us today to get started!

If you’ve ever driven past a business and noticed a sign with a company name or logo glowing brightly after dark, there’s a good chance you were looking at a cabinet sign. These signs are one of the most common types of commercial signage because they’re durable, highly visible, and can be customized to suit any business. But what exactly are cabinet signs, and why do so many businesses choose them? Keep reading to find out.

What are cabinet signs?

Cabinet signs, also known as box signs, are rigid, enclosed box-shaped structures commonly used to display a business’s name, logo, or other graphics. They feature a durable metal frame (typically aluminum or steel) and a translucent face made from acrylic or polycarbonate, which can be decorated with custom vinyl lettering or digitally printed designs. Many cabinet signs are internally illuminated, making them highly visible, both day and night. 

Cabinet signs come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. They can be mounted directly to a building, attached to a raceway, or installed on freestanding poles. Their simple yet versatile design makes cabinet signs one of the most popular and recognizable types of commercial signage. 

What are the benefits of cabinet signs?

Cabinet signs offer a range of advantages that help businesses stand out and create a lasting impression. Some of the biggest benefits of choosing a cabinet sign include high visibility, durable construction, cost-effectiveness, low maintenance, and a clean, professional appearance.

Let’s take a look at these benefits in a bit more detail:

High Visibility

Cabinet signs are easy to spot and read from a distance, helping to attract customers and improve your business’s visibility. Illuminated options remain visible after dark and in poor weather conditions.

Durability

Cabinet signs are made with weather-resistant materials, such as aluminum and acrylic or polycarbonate, and are designed to withstand outdoor exposure, including rain, snow, wind, and UV rays. With quality materials and proper maintenance, cabinet signs can last 10–20 years or more.

Cost-Effective Signage

Cabinet signs are generally more affordable than other custom signage options, such as individually fabricated channel letters. Their long lifespan and minimal maintenance also make them an excellent long-term investment.

Customizable Design

Cabinet signs are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colours, and finishes, and they can be customized to display your business’s name, logo, or other graphics.

Professional Appearance

A well-designed cabinet sign gives your business a polished, professional appearance that helps to create a strong first impression and reinforce your brand.

Low Maintenance

Aside from occasional cleaning and periodic inspections, cabinet signs require very little upkeep to maintain their appearance and performance.

Are cabinet signs illuminated?

Yes, many cabinet signs are internally illuminated, making them easy to see both during the day and after dark. The sign face is designed to allow light to shine through, creating bright, even illumination that helps your business stand out.

Most modern cabinet signs use LED lighting, which is more energy-efficient, longer-lasting, and requires less maintenance than older fluorescent systems. LEDs also provide more consistent illumination and can help reduce operating costs over the life of the sign.

Where are cabinet signs commonly used?

Cabinet signs can be found across a wide range of industries, including:

• Retail stores
• Restaurants and cafes
• Medical and dental clinics
• Office buildings
• Shopping centres
• Hotels and hospitality businesses
• Automotive businesses
• Shopping plazas
• Schools
• Community centres

Their versatility makes them suitable for both small local businesses and large brands.

Cabinet signs remain one of the most reliable and cost-effective signage solutions today. A professionally manufactured cabinet sign helps showcase your brand and welcome customers with a clean, inviting appearance. With their durable construction and customizable design, cabinet signs are a smart investment for businesses looking to stand out.

If you’re considering a cabinet sign for your business, working with a professional sign company can help ensure the finished product meets your goals. From design and fabrication to installation, our team at National Neon Signs can guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today to get started!

Choosing the right storefront sign for your business is a significant decision. Your signage is often the first thing customers notice; therefore, it needs to be eye-catching, legible, and a true reflection of your brand. Two of the most popular types of illuminated signage are channel letter signs and box signs.

At first glance, these two sign types may seem similar. Both are designed to increase visibility, showcase your brand, and create a professional appearance. However, distinct differences between the two exist, and understanding how they compare can help you choose the best option for your business.

In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between channel letter signs and box signs and the unique advantages of each. 

What is a channel letter sign?

A channel letter sign is a three-dimensional structure made of individually crafted letters, numbers, or shapes. Each character is constructed separately and typically contains internal LED lighting, allowing the sign to remain visible both during the day and at night.

These letters are usually crafted from durable materials like aluminum and acrylic. Furthermore, the front face of each letter can be customized with various colours and finishes to align perfectly with a company’s branding.

Channel letters are commonly seen on storefronts, shopping centres, restaurants, and office buildings because they create a clean, modern, and professional look.

What is a box sign?

A box sign, also known as a cabinet sign, is an enclosed structure used to display a business’s name or logo. Unlike channel letters, the entire design is housed within a single cabinet or “box” frame.

A typical box sign features a durable metal frame, usually aluminum, and a face made from translucent acrylic or polycarbonate. Graphics are applied to the face using high-quality vinyl or digital prints, while internal LED lighting ensures the design remains bright and visible at all hours.

Box signs are a versatile option for businesses of all sizes because they can be customized in a variety of sizes and colours while providing excellent visibility.

What is the difference between a channel letter sign and a box sign?

The biggest differences between a channel letter sign and a box sign lie in their construction and overall appearance.

Channel letter signs consist of individually fabricated components mounted separately to a building or a raceway. Because each character is its own unit, the finished sign offers depth and dimension, resulting in a sleek, modern, and high-end aesthetic that complements contemporary storefronts.

Box signs, by comparison, are built as a single enclosed cabinet that contains the entire sign face. This design provides a larger, continuous surface for displaying a business’s name, logo, or other graphics. They can be mounted directly to a building or installed on existing sign structures, such as pylon or monument signs. Box signs have a bolder, more traditional appearance, making them a practical choice for a wide range of businesses.

Which type of sign is better for my business?

Both channel letter signs and box signs can be fully customized, so the right choice ultimately depends on the look you want to achieve, the needs of your business, and your budget.

If you’re looking for a sleek, modern appearance that gives your storefront a premium feel, channel letter signs are an excellent option. Their three-dimensional design creates depth and dimension, helping businesses stand out while reinforcing a polished, professional brand image. They are especially popular for companies that want a clean, upscale aesthetic.

If affordability, flexibility, or a larger display area are your priorities, a box sign may be the superior choice. Box signs provide ample space for complex branding elements and are highly effective for businesses seeking maximum visibility. They can also be integrated into existing structures, such as pylon or monument signs. In many cases, box signs are more cost-effective than channel letters, making them a strong choice for businesses staying within a specific budget.

Whether you choose a channel letter sign or a box sign, a well-designed sign can help your business create a lasting impression. At National Neon Signs, we create custom signage solutions designed to meet your business’s unique needs. Contact us today for more information.