Neon signs have been used in eye-catching displays for over a century.  With their retro charm and mesmerizing glow, neon displays have become an iconic symbol of a city’s bustling nightlife and entertainment.  The use of neon in signage has fluctuated in popularity since its debut in 1910.  With the increased availability of alternatives, such as fluorescent and LED lighting, the widespread use of neon signs began declining in the 1960s, surging again in the 1980s.  Today, it’s safe to say that neon is coming back to life, with many consumers finding themselves attracted to the warm glow of a classic neon sign.  

There’s no doubt that vintage neon signs are making a comeback.  Today’s neon lights have protective features to prevent damage and breakage, making them more durable than ever. However, the passage of time and exposure to the elements can still take a toll on these luminous beacons.  Understanding the intricacies of neon light repair can help preserve their brilliance and allow them to stand the test of time.

Neon sign repair involves diagnosing and fixing issues like broken tubes, connections, or transformers, often requiring specialized skills to restore the sign’s functionality and appearance. Professional services can replace damaged tubes, repair high-voltage problems, and ensure the sign glows brightly once more.  

Let’s take a look at neon sign repair in a little more detail.

1. Inspection

The first step in restoring a neon sign is to identify the issue.  First, inspect the sign for any visible cracks or breakage of the glass tubes or electrical components.  Cracks or leaks in the neon tubing can compromise the sign’s ability to glow.  Broken or damaged wires or connections can prevent the sign from receiving power.  Problems with the transformer, which supplies the high voltage required for neon signs, can result in flickering or dimming.  Thoroughly assess the condition of your sign or seek professional assistance if you’re unable to diagnose the issue yourself.

2. Safety Precautions

Due to potential hazards such as high voltage and broken glass, it’s essential to prioritize your safety.  Before undertaking any repairs, adhere to the following safety precautions:

• Turn off and unplug the sign to prevent electrical shock.
• Wear protective gloves and eyewear to protect against sharp glass or electrical hazards.
• Use insulated tools when working with wiring or transformers to avoid accidental electrical contact.
• Avoid skin contact with neon gas.
• Consider hiring a professional electrician or neon sign technician, especially for complex repairs.

3. Repairing the Damage

Once the complexity of the damage has been evaluated and all necessary safety precautions have been taken, you can begin to repair your neon sign.  Here are a few common repairs:

• Tube Repairs – Begin your repair by carefully removing the old neon tube from its supports, using pliers or a tube cutter, and detach it from the electrodes.  Clean the ends of the remaining glass tubing and the electrodes thoroughly to remove any residue or debris.  Insert the new neon tube into the electrode, using a welding torch to heat the tube and electrode until they fuse together.  Ensure the new tube is correctly connected to the power supply or transformer.  Twist the wires securely and slide the electrical boot over the connections.  You may need to refill your tubing with the correct gas blend before resealing the tubes.
• Electrical Connections – Replacing or repairing damaged wires is essential for restoring power flow to your sign.   To repair electrical connections, start by cutting out the damaged section of wire using wire cutters.  Next, strip the insulation from the ends of the wires using wire strippers.  Twist the wire ends together, then solder them securely using a soldering iron.  Slide heat shrink tubing over the soldered joint and heat it to secure the connection.  
• Transformer Replacement – A neon sign transformer is used to power neon signs by increasing the standard household voltage to the high voltage required for the neon gas to glow safely and reliably.  If a transformer is damaged or faulty, it’s generally more cost-effective and efficient to replace it with a new one.  Replacing a transformer on a neon sign can be very dangerous, due to the high voltage involved, potentially leading to electrocution, burns, and even death.  Only trained and experienced professionals should handle neon sign transformers.

With the correct tools and knowledge, you may be able to make simple repairs on your neon sign yourself.  However, please consider the complexity of the damage before attempting a DIY project.  Most neon sign repairs require specialized skills, careful handling, and safety precautions.  In particular, older neon signs can present unique challenges, requiring a delicate touch and specialized knowledge to restore.

If you have a beloved neon sign in need of repair, trust the experts at National Neon.  Contact us today to bring your neon sign back to life!

Neon signs are a great way to make your business stand out! However, they’re far from perfect. They need repairs and regular maintenance to preserve the glow. Today, we are going to discuss the most common problems with neon signs and how they can be remedied with repairs and regular maintenance.

Are you considering a neon sign for your business? Follow the tips in our comprehensive guide to keep your signs functioning and shining bright for years to come.

How to Keep Your Neon Sign Shining Bright with Regular Maintenance

Don’t let your neon signs burn out! In order to maintain the glow of your neon sign, you need to take care of it. By following our basic maintenance tips, you can keep your light shining bright for years to come:

Clean Your Neon Sign

Over time, dust, dirt and debris can accumulate on the surface of your neon sign, dimming its brightness. Regular cleaning will help your sign remain visible and maintain its beauty. Gently wipe the surface with a soft, lint-free cloth or microfiber cloth. Stay away from harsh chemicals to avoid damaging your sign. When cleaning glass tubes, have a damp cloth and cleaner specially made for neon signs on hand to prevent build-up or residue.

Inspect Your Sign For Damage

Check your sign for damage like cracks and leaks on occasion. You should also check if there is any damage to the neon sign tubes. If the tube has cracks or leaks, the sign might not be able to glow anymore and can result in visible cracks, bubbling and discolouration. If you notice any problems, schedule repairs sooner rather than later to prevent further deterioration. 

Handling Neon Gas

The neon tube connected to your sign provides its signature glow. As time passes, this gas can start to leak, affecting the sign’s brightness. If you notice your sign is dimming or starting to flicker, the gas might need to be refilled. Neon gas repairs should only be handled by professionals with the right training and knowledge. If this is the problem, a technician can replace or refill the tube for you.

Check Electrical Connections

Neon signs use electrical connections to their power lights. That’s why you should check the wiring, transformers and power supply on a regular basis. Loose or worn-out electrical connections can result in dimming, flickering or a complete burnout. Be on the lookout for wear on exposed wires and ensure all connections are secure. If there are issues with the electrical system, call in a professional.

These maintenance practices will help your neon sign last longer. By paying attention to the smallest of details, you can fix basic problems before they worsen. Speaking of issues, we will talk about common problems with neon signs and how to resolve them next.

Common Neon Sign Issues and How to Fix Them

Even those with an established maintenance can encounter problems. When they happen, you’ll need professional repair services to fix them. Check out the most common problems with neon signs and how to fix them below:

Broken Tubes

Neon signs get their signature glow from a tube. When it is cracked or broken, the gas inside the tube can leak out, making the light flicker or burn out entirely.

In order to repair the tube, the damaged section needs to be removed for a new tube to be installed. The replacement tube is then sealed into place and gas is installed inside. Note that this process requires specialized knowledge and should be handled by a professional.

Damaged Electrical Connections

Did your neon sign lose its glow? If it did, damaged electrical connections might be the culprit. Loose wires, corroded connections and damaged transformers can stop the sign from lighting up properly.

The repair process involves checking the wires and replacing any damaged sections. All the connections should be secure and wires should never be exposed, especially outdoors.

Transformer Replacement

The transformer is the backbone of any neon sign. It turns standard household voltage into neon gas to get the sign to glow. When the transformer is malfunctioning, your neon sign can start flickering or not light up at all.

Replacing the transformer isn’t easy. A professional technician is required. The technician will replace the faulty transformer to get the sign up and running again in no time.

Flickering or Dimming

If you notice that your neon sign is flickering or dimming, it could be a result of worn-out tubes, electrical problems or issues with the transformer.

It is essential to inspect and replace the leaking or damaged tubes. If you continue to experience issues, your technician will check the electrical components and make any necessary repairs.

When you encounter a problem, it’s best to fix it immediately. It can save you money over time. By replacing faulty components early on, you can prevent further damage. We will discuss safety precautions to take during neon sign maintenance and repair processes next.

Precautions to Take During Neon Sign Maintenance and Repair

Neon signs look amazing, but are deceptively dangerous. That’s why you have to be careful when maintaining and repairing these signs. Here’s our advice to stay safe while taking care of your neon signs:

Turn Off the Power

Like when you’re working with other appliances, cut the power when you’re dealing with a neon sign. Disconnect the power supply. This will prevent electrical shock and keep the sign safe from additional damage.

Wear Protective Gear

While working on a neon sign, you have to come prepared. Always wear the proper safety equipment to protect yourself. Wear protective gloves and eyewear. Additionally, you should use insulated tools to safeguard against electrical hazards and broken glass.

Don’t Handle Neon Gas Alone

Neon gas powers your sign. However, you shouldn’t handle it yourself. That’s why you should leave gas refills and repairs to the professionals.

Hire a Professional

Lastly, hire a professional technician while working with neon signs. They are trained to work with neon signs specifically. Additionally, when you DIY your repair or maintenance project, you risk paying more for your mistakes.

Neon sign maintenance and repair are far from easy. That’s why you have to be careful. By taking safety precautions, you can prevent a small issue from turning into a larger problem. It will also help you keep that signature glow for even longer.

Keep Your Neon Sign Shining Bright!

Proper neon sign maintenance will ensure your sign remains effective and visually appealing for years. On the other hand, repairs will restore your sign back to its original glory. Having problems with your neon sign? At National Neon Signs, we understand how to solve them. Our technicians will ensure your sign shines for years to come.

Need neon sign maintenance or repair services? Contact us today!

A well-designed store sign is one of your business’s most important tools for attracting customers, promoting products, or enhancing brand recognition.  However, signage placement is just as important as design.  Even the most compelling, visually appealing sign won’t help much if your customers can’t see it!  To ensure maximum visibility, you’ll need to consider the environment around you.  

Picking the perfect spot can significantly impact its success.  In this post, we’re going to explore some key factors that contribute to effective signage placement.  

1. Foot Traffic

The strategic placement of signage in high-traffic areas significantly amplifies its visibility.  Your sign should be placed where it is most likely to be seen by your target audience, which is why you need to prioritize locations that receive high foot traffic.  This might include areas like sidewalks, entryways, checkout lines, or other places where people tend to stop and gather.  By identifying high-traffic areas, businesses can ensure that their signage reaches a larger and more diverse audience, increasing brand exposure and capturing the attention of potential customers.  

2. Signage Height

For signs targeting foot traffic, place your sign at eye level.  This ensures your message meets the gaze of passersby, making it both highly visible and engaging.  However, if your sign is on a busy street with a lot of pedestrian traffic, you may want to consider placing it slightly above eye level, or higher if it needs to be seen from a distance.  For busy locations, you may want to angle the sign 45 degrees up or down from eye level and check if this makes it more visible.

3. Accessibility

Your sign needs to be easily accessible to the audience you want to reach.  Make sure it’s placed in a clear line of sight, where it is unobstructed by other signs, objects, or the surrounding environment.  Ensure your sign is in clear view and can be easily read and understood by passersby.  

4. Environmental Surroundings

The surrounding environment can have a big impact on the effectiveness of your sign.  Consider your sign’s surroundings, including any visual clutter or other signs that might be next to yours.  Your sign should stand out even in a busy environment, with clear design elements and contrasting colors.  Consider natural elements like trees, plant growth, or weather conditions that might affect visibility and factor these in when choosing the perfect spot for your sign.  Choose a location that complements your sign’s message and visual style.

5. Local Regulations

When placing your sign, it’s important to adhere to local ordinances and regulations.  This includes checking zoning laws, permit requirements, and any restrictions on sign placement.  Adhering to these guidelines helps prevent any legal issues in the future.  Make sure your sign is installed securely and safely to prevent accidents and avoid damage.

6. Vehicle Traffic

When placing outdoor signs, consider vehicle traffic, including the speed of traffic and the distance from where it will be seen.  For traffic moving at higher speeds, your sign will need to be larger, with a clear, concise message so drivers can quickly understand the information.   Signs need to be positioned and designed to be easily seen against the backdrop of other environmental surroundings.  Pylon signs, also known as freestanding signs, are often used along busy roads and highways.  They are strategically placed to be seen from a distance and are often double-sided so that they catch attention from both directions.

Finding the perfect spot for your sign has a huge impact on its overall success.  Ready to discuss how our signs can elevate your brand visibility and attract more customers to your store?  Contact us today at National Neon!

Cabinet signs are known for their ability to help businesses stand out! They also offer a plethora of possibilities for customization. With that in mind, there are several ways to use them to increase visibility, attract customers, and enhance branding. After all, a well-designed sign is the best way to stand out, especially in busy areas.

With that  in mind, let’s discuss design ideas that will make your cabinet sign pop! Here’s some more information about cabinet signs and what a unique design can do for your business.

What Design Elements Make a Cabinet Sign Stand Out?

Cabinet signs are special and offer a unique box-shaped sign. This frame allows them to shine, but there are a couple other elements to keep in mind. We break them down below:

• Typography: Font can say a lot about a brand in the sense that it offers a sense of personality. A sign’s text can deliver important messaging like slogans and promotions. The text should be easy to read and be bold in nature.
• Colour Scheme: If you want people to notice your brand, you should use a signature colour scheme. There should also be a sense of contrast to make your image stand out. Try using a light colour against a dark background.
• Lighting Effects: Cabinet signs tend to have a bulky frame that allows them to stand out in the crowd and using lighting the right way can emphasize this. Backlit and halo effects are ideal for businesses that remain open after the sun goes down.
• Logo Use: When you think of a major brand, one of the first things that comes to mind is a logo. By incorporating yours into your sign, you are establishing your brand as a driving force in your community.

What Creative Cabinet Sign Ideas Can Inspire Your Needs?

When designing your new sign, you need to keep your message in mind. However, on a busy street, you need to stand out. How do you do this—a unique design concept of course! Check out some ideas below:

• Minimalist Designs: You’ve probably heard the saying, “less is more.” This is all too true when it comes to cabinet signs. Using negative space and clean lines will make your design look clean and free of clutter.
• Bold and Bright Colours: The eye is naturally drawn to bright colours. If you opt for bright reds, oranges, and yellows, people won’t just stop and stare—they might just stop into your business.
• Graphic Elements and Icons: A picture is worth 1,000 words. By using pictures and graphics on your sign, people understand what your business is all about. For example, food on restaurant signs and shopping carts for retail stores are visually appealing.
• Vintage or Retro Style: You’ve probably seen those old movies with those neon motel signs. They look amazing and are timeless. Additionally, the vintage or classic feel can evoke a sense of nostalgia, attracting potential customers.
• Interactive Elements: Color changing pictures, graphics, and lettering are very unique. These displays are dynamic rather than stagnant. Businesses wanting to showcase offers, news, and time-sensitive promotions can benefit from these. 

How Can You Customize Your Cabinet Sign to Suit Your Business’s Needs?

Alongside design elements, there are other ways to customize your cabinet sign. This allows you to make your sign your own. Take the following into consideration:

• Size and Shape: Cabinet signs are usually box-shaped, but can you alter them to fit your space. Unique shapes are ideal for smaller spaces. Speaking of size, you can scale your sign up or down depending on your needs. 
• Materials: Choose from acrylic, aluminum or polycarbonate. Acrylic has a glossy finish that’s easy to customize. Its counterparts are super durable and ideal for outdoor use because of their weather-resistant properties. 
• Dual-Sided Designs: When people are walking down the street or driving by, you might worry about them missing your sign. However, you can make them see it by making your side double-sided, which is a great way to get your message out there.
• Using Local Elements: Take pride in your community and market yourself as a local business. Using nearby landmarks and destinations as images on your sign will make your business more recognizable to locals.

Get Creative with a Brand New Cabinet Sign Today!

By incorporating these unique design elements into your sign, you can stand out in the crowd. After all, customization makes a difference. If you’re on the hunt for a brand new cabinet sign, National Neon Signs has you covered. We offer quality signage solutions that ensure no one will forget your brand.

Are you ready to give your sign an upgrade? Contact us today!

In our ever-changing world, cabinet signs give more businesses more visibility and allow them to promote their brands. These signs attract potential customers. In this case study, we will explore how businesses use custom cabinet signs to elevate their presence, increase foot traffic, and create a memorable brand identity.

How Cabinet Signs Improve Visibility for Businesses

Visibility can make or break any business. Cabinet signs stand out and make a strong first impression, especially for businesses in the bustling city of Calgary. These signs grab the attention of those passing by any time of day. By using bright, durable materials and advanced lighting options, cabinet signs ensure businesses are visible in all conditions—this makes them the ideal choice for storefronts, office buildings, restaurants, and retail locations.

For example, a local restaurant, struggling to attract customers during evening hours could invest in a custom cabinet sign with illuminated LED lights. The sign could make the business more visible at night and stand out in a crowded street filled with competing restaurants. This would increase foot traffic, proving the power of business signage solutions in transforming customer engagement.

Key Benefits of Cabinet Signs for Visibility:

• Day and Night Visibility: Illuminated signs are visible at all hours, ensuring customers can find you any time.
• Attract More Foot Traffic: A well-designed sign grabs the attention of people walking by, increasing chances of them stopping in.
• Stand Out from Competitors: In busy areas, cabinet signs are a great way to differentiate your business from others.

Cabinet Signage for Business Branding and Identity

A well-designed cabinet sign improves business visibility and helps a brand stick with people.. When designed thoughtfully, cabinet signs can reflect the core values, personality, and aesthetic of a brand. Whether it’s through custom fonts, colours, or logos, these signs become an integral part of a business’s marketing strategy.

Consider the case of a boutique clothing store that wants to convey its trendy and modern vibe. The business would benefit from a sleek cabinet sign that incorporates a bold logo and vibrant colour scheme. The result? Customers would recognize the store from a distance, associating it with high-quality fashion and style. The sign became synonymous with the brand, reinforcing its identity every time someone passed by.

How Cabinet Signs Enhance Branding:

• Reflects Your Brand’s Identity: The design, colours, and logo on the sign communicate your brand to the public.
• Customizable Design Options: Tailor your sign to match your business’s aesthetic, attracting the right customers.
• Consistency Across Locations: If you have multiple locations, cabinet signs can be designed consistently for unified branding.

Cabinet Signs Boost Customer Perception and Trust

When customers see a custom cabinet sign outside a business, it signals professionalism and reliability. High-quality, well-lit signs can elevate the perceived value of a business, creating a sense of trust and bringing in potential customers. For example, a home improvement store might decide to replace their old, outdated signage with a new cabinet sign. The sign would have modern design elements and energy-efficient lighting.

The new sign can boost the store’s reputation in the community. It allows customers to feel more confident visiting the store, as the sleek, professional signage conveyed a sense of trustworthiness and expertise. By upgrading their signage, the business would see an increase in walk-in traffic, along with an improvement in sales and customer loyalty.

Why Cabinet Signs Are the Right Choice for Your Business

As demonstrated by these case studies, cabinet signs help businesses improve their visibility, enhance their branding, and build customer trust. The combination of functionality, aesthetics, and durability makes them a powerful marketing tool. Whether you are opening a new location or updating your existing signage, cabinet signs provide the perfect solution to help your business stand out.

Key Reasons to Choose Cabinet Signs:

• Improve Your Brand’s Perception: A modern, well-lit sign can make your business look more professional and trustworthy.
• Versatile Design Options: Cabinet signs can be customized to fit any type of business, from restaurants to retail stores.
• Long-Term Investment: Their durability provides years of reliable service, saving you money on maintenance and replacements.

If you’re ready to transform your business with business signage solutions, National Neon Signs can help. Our team of experts specializes in designing, manufacturing, and installing custom cabinet signs that meet your unique needs. Contact us today to get started!

Custom cabinet signs are a great way for businesses to showcase their brand and attract potential customers. These three-dimensional signs consist of a box-like structure and can be illuminated or non-illuminated depending on your needs. Cabinet signs use durable materials like acrylic, aluminum, and stainless steel. Ideal for retail storefronts, restaurants, and office buildings, these signs have various applications. The design versatility of custom cabinet signs makes them stand out from your competition. Let’s learn more about the manufacturing process and what a custom cabinet sign can do for your business!

Custom Cabinet Sign Design and Manufacturing Process

Creating a custom cabinet sign sounds complex. However, it can be broken down into simple steps, each crucial to ensuring the sign fits the business’s branding and functions efficiently. Here’s a quick breakdown:

1. Design & Consultation: The first step is a design consultation, which is used to better understand your branding needs and the desired impact of your sign. Customization options include size, font, colors, and whether to incorporate illuminated or non-illuminated elements.
2. Material Selection: The materials chosen for cabinet signs help them look amazing and last longer. Acrylic is used for a clear, colorful finish, while aluminum provides strength and weather resistance.
3. Manufacturing: After finalizing the design and selecting materials, the sign is manufactured. For illuminated signs, the lighting system (often LEDs) is installed, so your sign remains bright and visible.
4. Installation: Once your sign is manufactured, it is professionally installed, and securely mounted to adhere to local regulations. 

Why Choose Custom Cabinet Signs for Your Business?

Why choose a custom cabinet sign? They are a top choice for businesses for the following reasons:

• High Visibility: These signs are designed to be highly visible, allowing your business to stand out, even in busy or low-light areas. Illuminated cabinet signs provide 24/7 visibility, ideal for storefronts and locations with evening traffic.
• Durability: Custom cabinet signs are built to last. Made from sturdy materials like aluminum and acrylic, they can withstand outdoor weather conditions, allowing for top performance without the need for frequent replacements.
• Energy Efficiency: The option of LED lighting offers a cost-effective, energy-efficient way to illuminate your business. LED technology reduces energy consumption and is a more environmentally friendly choice compared to fluorescent lighting.
• Customizable Design: From size to colour to fonts, cabinet signs offer limitless design options. You can create a sign that perfectly aligns with your brand’s identity while attracting potential customers.

Applications and Benefits of Custom Cabinet Signs

Custom cabinet signs are highly versatile and can be used in various settings:

• Retail Stores: Whether you have a small boutique or a big box store, a cabinet sign helps attract potential customers. Regardless, it will help your business be easily visible from a distance.
• Restaurants and Cafes: These signs help restaurants and cafes build brand recognition. Illuminated cabinet signs can attract customers even after dark, increasing foot traffic after the sun sets.
• Corporate Offices: For office buildings or business parks, cabinet signs add a professional touch while helping visitors locate your office easily. These signs can also reflect your company’s branding.
• Commercial Spaces: Whether it’s for a shopping mall or an industrial complex, custom cabinet signs can help. They can be used to guide customers, clients, and employees, which can get your business noticed sooner. 

Custom Cabinet Signs for Long-Term Success

Custom cabinet signs are an effective and professional way to increase your business visibility and enhance your brand identity. With a long-lasting design, energy-efficient lighting, and highly customizable features, these signs are an investment that pays off over time. Whether you’re looking for an illuminated sign for your storefront, a non-illuminated logo for your office building, or a customized sign for your restaurant, cabinet signs can work for you.

National Neon Signs can design custom cabinet signs that suit your needs. Contact us to elevate your brand today!