Neon signs have been a staple for storefronts, restaurants, and entertainment venues for more than a century.  Their warm, colourful glow makes them one of the most recognizable forms of signage.  Even today, as LED technology has become the dominant choice for illuminated signs, many people still appreciate the handmade craftsmanship and vintage character that only a traditional neon sign can provide.

If you’re considering a neon sign for your business or personal space, you might be wondering: how long do neon signs last?  While the answer can vary, a well-built neon sign can last 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care.  

In this post, we’ll take a look at the factors that help determine the overall lifespan of a neon sign.  

How long do neon signs last?

The average lifespan of a traditional glass neon sign is around 10 to 15 years, depending on the quality of its construction, operating conditions, surrounding environment, and ongoing maintenance. 

In many cases, the glass tubes themselves can last for decades, while other components, like the transformer or internal phosphor coatings, may need to be repaired or replaced.  

Let’s go into more detail:

1. Quality of Construction

The overall quality of the glass tubing, transformers and electrical connections plays a major role in how long your sign will last.  Professionally manufactured neon signs use high-grade glass that is properly bent and sealed, reducing the risk of microcracks that can allow the neon or other gases to escape and diminish the sign’s performance.  Cheap or mismatched power supplies cause voltage fluctuations that put severe strain on the tubing and electrodes, potentially shortening the sign’s overall lifespan.  A quality transformer provides stable power and can often operate reliably for many years before needing a replacement.

2. Daily Usage

Like any illuminated sign, its lifespan is affected by usage.  A sign that runs 24/7 will experience more wear than one that only operates during business hours.  That being said, turning the sign on and off too frequently puts stress on the transformer and electrodes, and can shorten the sign’s life as well.  In most cases, operating the sign only when needed and avoiding unnecessary cycling will help maximize its lifespan.

3. Indoor vs. Outdoor Use

Indoor neon signs placed away from direct sunlight and protected from weather, moisture, and temperature extremes can last significantly longer than outdoor signs.  Outdoor exposure subjects the glass and wiring to rain, snow, humidity, UV light, and fluctuating temperatures, all of which can contribute to wear and tear over time.  

4. Regular Maintenance

Routine maintenance plays an important role in determining how long a neon sign will last.  Dust buildup, loose electrical connections, damaged wiring, and small cracks in the glass can all reduce performance and lead to premature wear if left unaddressed.  Signs that are inspected regularly and repaired promptly are far more likely to reach their full expected lifespan.

How can I extend the life of my neon sign?

Extending the life of a neon sign often comes down to proper care and maintenance.  Here are a few ways you can help maximize its lifespan:

1. Proper Installation 

When a neon sign is installed securely and correctly supported, it reduces unnecessary stress on the glass tubing and electrical components.  The best way to ensure proper installation is by hiring a qualified professional who understands the electrical and structural needs of the neon signage.  

2. Regular Inspections and Cleaning

Routine maintenance is one of the most crucial ways to extend the life of a neon sign.  Periodically, dust the sign, check for flickering or dim sections, and inspect for damaged wiring or cracked tubing.  About once a month, gently wipe down the tubes with a soft, dry microfiber cloth while the sign is unplugged.  Addressing minor issues early can help prevent more extensive repairs.

3. Placement

When possible, keep your sign in a location that is protected from direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperatures.  Because the glass tubes are fragile, it’s also important to avoid high-traffic areas where the sign could be accidentally bumped or knocked over.  Place the sign safely out of reach of people, pets, or swinging doors to avoid physical damage.

4. Power Management

Using a timer or scheduling system helps ensure the sign is only operating when needed, and avoiding frequent on-and-off cycling can prevent strain on the transformer and electrodes.  Also, protecting the sign from power surges by using a high-quality surge protector can help prevent electrical damage and support long-term, consistent performance.

If you’re ready to bring your vision to life with a neon sign, get in touch with us today at National Neon Signs!

Few sign styles are as iconic as neon. For generations, businesses have used neon signs to attract attention and create memorable storefronts. While LEDs have become the modern standard thanks to their energy efficiency and low maintenance requirements, neon continues to be valued for its handcrafted appearance, authentic glow, and nostalgic appeal. 

But are neon signs expensive to run? Traditional glass neon generally costs more to operate than LED signage, however, many business owners find its distinctive character well worth the additional expense. 

Let’s go into more detail.

What is a neon sign?

A neon sign is an illuminated sign made from glass tubes filled with gases such as neon or argon. When an electrical current passes through the gas, it produces a bright, colourful glow. Although commonly referred to as “neon” signs, many use different gases and coatings to create a wide range of colours.

Traditional neon signs are handcrafted by bending glass tubing into custom shapes and letters. For decades, their distinctive glow and vintage aesthetic have made them a popular choice for businesses of all kinds, and in recent years, they have experienced a resurgence in popularity as interest in retro-inspired design continues to grow. 

Are neon signs expensive to run?

Traditional neon signs are generally more expensive to run than modern LED signs, but they are not prohibitively costly. A small to medium neon sign typically uses between 50 and 150 watts, which translates to around 1.2 to 3.6 kilowatt-hours of electricity per day, if the sign is running continuously. On the other hand, a similar LED sign might use 50%-90% less energy than traditional glass neon. 

As a rough ballpark, an LED sign might cost only $5.00 per month (about $0.20 per day) to run, compared to $15 to $35 per month (about $1 per day) for traditional neon. That said, estimates can vary and you should get quotes directly from the company you plan on working with.

However, the exact operating cost depends on several factors, such as the size of the sign, its brightness, how many hours it’s used each day, and local electricity rates. While energy costs for neon signs are typically modest, maintenance and repairs can add to the overall cost over time. 

Let’s take a closer look at these factors:

• Sign Size – Larger signs require more lighting and consume more electricity.
• Operating Hours – A sign that runs 24/7 will cost more to operate than one used only during business hours.
• Brightness – Brighter signs generally require more power.
• Sign Design – Complex designs with longer tubing or additional lighting elements may increase energy consumption. 
• Local Electricity Rates – Operating costs vary depending on utility prices in your area.
• Maintenance Needs – Neon signs tend to require more maintenance and repairs over time.

Is neon worth it?

Whether or not neon is worth it depends on what you’re trying to achieve. From a purely cost perspective, LED signage is the more practical option thanks to its lower energy use and minimal maintenance requirements. However, traditional neon still offers something that LEDs can’t fully replicate – the warm, handcrafted glow and vintage character that can make a storefront stand out. For many businesses, neon is worth it not because it’s the cheapest option, but because of the atmosphere and visual impact it creates. 

If brand identity and aesthetic appeal are a priority, neon can still be a worthwhile investment, despite the higher long-term costs. 

What is LED neon flex tubing?

LED neon flex tubing is a modern alternative to traditional glass neon. Instead of using glass tubes filled with gas, it uses flexible silicon or PVC tubing with LED lights inside to create a bright, glowing effect. It’s designed to mimic the look of classic neon while offering improved durability, energy efficiency, and easier installation. 

LED neon flex is often considered the best of both worlds. It delivers the same bold, continuous glow as traditional neon while using significantly less energy and requiring far less maintenance. Essentially, it captures the iconic aesthetic of neon signage but with the practicality and efficiency of modern LED technology.  

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact us today at National Neon Signs to start creating your custom LED or neon sign.

Glowing signs are a familiar sight on many storefronts, but most people don’t actually stop to think about what goes into making them. Behind every bright, eye-catching display is a combination of materials and technology, working together to create that signature glow. 

In this guide, we’ll take a look at what materials are used to make a glowing sign and how they are designed.

What is used to make glowing signs?

Modern illuminated signs are typically made from a combination of LED lighting, acrylic materials, electrical wiring, mounting hardware, and a power supply. Together, these components form a bright, glowing sign that can be shaped into almost any design.

Let’s take a look at each of these components in more detail:

LED Lighting

The most important component of a glowing sign is the light source itself. Today, most illuminated signs use LED lighting because it’s both durable and energy-efficient, and more practical than alternatives like neon lighting. Depending on the design and desired look, LEDs might be installed as flexible LED strips, individual light modules, or LED neon flex tubing. 

While LEDs may be the new standard, traditional neon signs (made with glass tubes filled with gas) are still sometimes used for their classic glow and nostalgic appeal. 

Backing Material

The backing serves as the foundation for your sign, and many glowing signs are mounted on acrylic sheets. Acrylic is a lightweight, durable plastic that provides a sturdy base for the sign’s lighting components. It’s usually cut using laser-cutting equipment to achieve precise shapes and clean edges that match the overall shape of the sign.

Other backing materials include wood for a warm, rustic style, aluminum for a strong, sturdy structure, or PVC board for an affordable, indoor display.

Wiring and Connectors

Wiring and connectors are essential components that allow electricity to flow through an illuminated sign. The wiring carries electricity from the power supply to the LEDs, while connectors create secure links between different sections of the lighting system. Depending on the design, these connections may be made using plug-in connectors, terminal blocks, or soldered joints. 

Power Supply

The power supply provides the electricity needed to operate a glowing sign. Most LED signs use a DC power adapter or LED driver to convert household AC electricity into the lower-voltage DC power required. The power supply must be properly matched to the sign’s voltage and wattage requirements to ensure safe, reliable operation. Choosing the correct power supply helps maximize energy efficiency and extend the lifespan of the lighting. 

Diffusers and Face Materials

Diffusers and face materials help control how light appears on the surface of an illuminated sign. A diffuser is a translucent layer that spreads light evenly, reducing harsh hotspots and creating a smooth, consistent glow. In many LED signs, materials such as frosted acrylic or polycarbonate are used as both the sign face and diffuser. These materials allow light to pass through while softening its intensity, improving readability and giving the sign a clean, professional appearance.

Mounting Hardware

Mounting hardware is what secures a glowing sign safely in place once it’s built. This might include screws, wall anchors, standoffs, brackets, hanging chains, or cables. For larger storefront signs, especially outdoor installations, professional installers often use specialized equipment such as lifts, scaffolding, or heavy-duty mounting systems to ensure the sign is safely and securely attached to the wall.

How are glowing signs designed?

Glowing signs are typically created using professional graphic software, rather than being fully drawn by hand. Designers work in vector-based programs like Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW to build precise layouts, clean lettering, and scalable graphics that can be used for fabrication. 

That said, the design process often starts in a much simpler way:

• Hand Sketches (Early Stage): Many designers or DIY sign makers begin with a rough sketch to explore ideas, layouts, and lettering.
• Digital Design (Final Stage): The sketch is then recreated in graphic software so it can be refined and scaled for production. Digital files can be sent directly to cutting machines, printers, or fabrication tools, which is essential for professional sign-making.

Ready to design your own glowing sign? Contact us at National Neon Signs for more information.

LED signs are everywhere, from restaurant storefronts to retail displays, and even home decor.,Their bright illumination, low energy consumption, and customizable designs have quickly made them one of the most popular signage solutions available today.

So, how do you make LED signage?,Understanding the process is a great place to start.,In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basic steps involved in creating an LED sign.,

What is an LED sign?

An LED sign is a type of illuminated signage that uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to display text, graphics, or logos.,These signs are popular for business storefronts and displays because they remain highly visible both day and night, making them an effective way to attract attention.

An LED sign is typically made up of a few core components, including the LED lighting itself, a power supply, a backing material (such as acrylic or PVC), and wiring to connect it all together.,Mounting hardware is used to securely install the finished sign in place.,

How to make LED signage?

To create LED signage, you’ll need to design a layout, prepare the backing, install and wire the LED components, and connect them to a power source.,Once everything is tested and functioning properly, the sign can be finished and mounted in its desired location.,While the exact process may vary depending on the size and complexity of the sign, the basic steps remain the same.,

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

1. Design Your Sign

Your first step is deciding what your sign will look like, which might include a company logo, business name, motivational quote, or other custom graphic.,You can create your design using graphic design software or sketch it by hand.,Keep in mind that simpler designs are generally easier to build, especially for beginners.

Once you’re happy with the design, print it to scale or transfer it directly onto your backing material so you’re ready for the next step.

2. Prepare the Backing

Cut the backing to the desired dimensions and clean the surface thoroughly.,If necessary, paint or finish the backing before installing the LEDs.,Mark the locations where the lighting will be mounted, using your design template as a guide.

3. Install the LEDs

LED strips are the most common choice for DIY signage because they are flexible, easy to work with, and can be cut to size for different designs.,Most LED strips also come with an adhesive backing which makes them simple to apply directly onto a prepared surface.,However, other options, like LED modules or LED neon flex tubing are also available, depending on the look you want to achieve.

Carefully follow your design outline and attach the LED strips to the backing.,For complex shapes, make gradual bends rather than sharp angles to avoid damaging the strips.,If using LED modules, secure each module individually according to the manufacturer’s instructions.,

Check that all lighting elements are positioned evenly to create consistent brightness across the sign.,

4. Wire the Components

Once the LEDs are installed, connect them to the power supply.,Follow any instructions provided with your LED products and ensure the voltage ratings match.,If your sign has multiple sections, you may need to link them together using connectors or soldered joints so the power flows evenly throughout the design.,

For signs that use colour-changing LEDs, an RGB controller can be added to customize colours, brightness levels, and lighting effects.,

5. Test the Sign

Before final assembly, power on the sign and test every section.,Check for dim areas, flickering lights, or any sections that are not working as expected.,This is the best time to make any adjustments, before the sign has been permanently mounted or enclosed.

6. Finalize the Build

Once everything is working correctly, secure all components in place and tidy up the internal layout.,This step might include adding protective covers, internal panels, or finishing details to complete the structure.,The goal here is to turn a working setup into a finished product.

7. Mount the Sign

The final step is installation.,Depending on the design and location, this could include wall mounting, adding a frame, or installing stand-off hardware.,Make sure the sign is securely supported and positioned for maximum visibility.,

If you’re handy with tools and electronics and looking for a smaller project, creating your own LED sign can be a fun and rewarding challenge.,However, most businesses choose to work with an experienced sign company when designing and installing LED signage.,Professional sign companies can help ensure the sign is built to last, complies with local regulations, and is installed safely for maximum visibility and impact.

For more information on creating your LED sign, contact us today at National Neon Signs!