Channel letter signs are a popular choice for storefront signage, using three-dimensional letters to spell out the name of a business or other message. Channel letter signs are highly customizable and often use illumination to create a vibrant, eye-catching display. In today’s competitive market, it’s important to use every tool to help attract customers to your business. A visible, creative sign can significantly increase foot traffic to your building and has been shown to increase sales by up to 10%.

If you’re thinking of investing in a channel letter sign for your business, the first thing you might be wondering is “How much will it cost?” Of course, the answer varies widely and several factors will influence the final price for your channel letter sign, including:

1. Size of the Sign

One of the primary factors in determining the cost of your channel letter sign is its size. Of course, the larger the sign, the more expensive it will be as a larger sign requires more raw materials, more lighting components, more electrical wiring, and higher fabrication costs. As the length of your sign increases, so does the installation effort.

A larger, heavier sign will require more insertion points to the wall and more structural reinforcement to mount it safely. The size of a sign directly affects its visibility. Remember that a large, dynamic digital signage option is easy to see and can attract attention from a distance.

You’ll need to consider the height and depth of each letter and weigh the benefits of visibility against the cost of the initial investment.

2. Materials Used

The materials used for your channel letter sign will significantly influence the cost. Aluminum is an affordable, lightweight, yet durable choice for illuminated channel letters under two feet tall. Other material options are stainless steel or brass, which are more expensive but provide enhanced durability.

The faces of the letters are usually made from vinyl or polycarbonate. Thicker gauges of material might cost more but can add to the lifespan of your sign. Using high-quality material might cost more in the short term but reduces the need for frequent repairs and replacements.

3. Complexity of Design

Channel letter signs are highly customizable and available in a wide variety of colors, fonts, and styles. You may want to add a corporate logo or other symbol or picture to your sign. As the complexity of the design increases, so will the cost. Intricate designs may require special equipment or craftsmanship to complete. Increased labor and time spent on fabrication will naturally add to the cost of your sign.

4. Lighting Elements

You can choose whether or not to add lighting to your sign. Of course, opting for no lighting will be cheaper but an illuminated sign significantly increases its visibility at all hours of the day. Most companies opt for LED lighting due to its brightness, energy efficiency, and durability but you can also use neon to light your sign.

You can choose from a wide range of colors and lighting effects to match your business’s aesthetic and create an eye-catching display. The type of lighting you choose will impact the cost of your sign.

5. Mounting and Installation

The installation process plays a role in the final cost of your signage. Channel letter signs typically use a “raceway” — a rectangular sign mounting structure that runs behind the sign, securing its components. This type of mounting system requires fewer drill points for faster and easier installation. Another option is called a “flush mount,” where each individual letter is attached directly to the wall.

This might result in a cleaner, more sophisticated look, but will require additional materials and add to your overall costs. It’s important to consider any additional factors that could add to the complexity of installation. Installing a sign on a very tall building or uneven surface may require special equipment, and trees or other obstacles blocking access to your building can lead to additional installation expenses.

A leading sign company will help you navigate these challenges to ensure a seamless process and stunning final result.

6. Local Regulations

Depending on your location, you may need to obtain a permit to install a channel letter sign on your building, adding to your overall cost. Be sure to look into any local regulations you may require.

You can expect to budget anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars for your channel letter sign, depending on its size, materials, lighting, and overall complexity. A high-quality storefront sign for your business can enhance your brand’s visibility and attract customers to your store.

It’s important for you as a business owner to weigh the initial investment of your channel letter sign with the long-term benefits it might provide.

At National Neon, we take care of all your signage needs, including everything from the original concept and design process to the mounting and installation. Contact us today to get started on your channel letter sign!

Business owners are always looking for ways to attract new customers and effectively communicate their brand. Channel letter storefront signage is one of the most impactful ways to achieve these goals. Channel letter signs have remained a staple for businesses and major corporations for many years, and for good reason. These signs are both functional and visually appealing, making a bold statement to increase foot traffic to your business.

From traditional methods of crafting letters by hand, to the advent of LED illumination, today’s technological advancements make channel letter signs more eye-catching than ever. Let’s take a look at the innovation of modern channel letter signage: from neon to LED and beyond.

What are Channel Letters?

A channel letter sign is created by adding depth to letters, numbers, or characters for a 3-dimensional look. These signs are typically made using aluminum or plastic material. Channel letter signs are highly flexible and are available in a wide variety of fonts, sizes, and colors. Illumination and different lighting options add visual effects and enhance the visibility of channel letter storefront signage.

What are the Lighting Options for Channel Letter Signs?

Illuminated signs can provide visibility to your business 24/7 to attract consumers at all hours of the day. Most channel letter signs are lit with either LEDs (light-emitting diodes) or neon. Let’s take a closer look at each option:

LED Lights

The introduction of LED technology revolutionized the signage industry.  Most modern channel letters are illuminated with LEDs. There are several advantages LEDs have over neon, including:

• Energy Efficiency – LED signs are known for their high efficiency, saving costs on monthly energy bills.
• Longer Lifespan – LED signs are very durable and can last up to a decade or more.  Some LED lights last up to 100,000 hours!
• Versatility – LED modules are highly customizable, and are available in various colors, sizes, brightness levels, and even color-changing effects.
• Low Maintenance – LED channel letter signage requires little to no maintenance.  
• Brightness – LEDs have a cool, bright aesthetic that can be seen from a long distance.

Neon Lights

In the early days of illuminated signage, neon signs dominated the industry. Traditional neon signs are made by filling glass tubes with various gasses to achieve different colors. With the advance of new technology and innovation, the popularity of neon lights began to decrease over time. However, they are making a comeback and many consumers enjoy the nostalgic glow of a classic neon sign. Today’s contemporary neon signs are different from those of several decades ago and it’s important to distinguish between traditional neon lights and newer alternatives. Modern signs offer many advantages over those of yesteryear, including:

• More Energy Efficient – Modern neon lights are designed with energy-saving components.
• Increased Safety – Traditional neon lights are very fragile and can be broken easily. Today’s neon signs are made from flexible silicone tubes instead of glass to prevent damage and breakage. One major safety concern in some types of neon lights is the presence of harmful substances, including mercury. Mercury is a toxic substance that can harm human health if mishandled. Today’s modern neon lights are free from harmful substances.
• Affordability – Thanks to new design materials and technological advancements, contemporary neon signs are more affordable than ever.

What are Some Other Future Trends for Channel Letter Signage?

The signage industry is continuing to evolve. Here are some trends we’re starting to see:

• Solar Power – Using solar panels to power signage reduces energy costs and environmental impact.
• Sustainable Materials – There is a growing demand among consumers for sustainable materials in signage construction.
• Dynamic Lighting – Using programmable lighting effects creates a dynamic and engaging display.
• Reverse Channel Letter – Reverse channel letters, or halo-lit channel letters, use spacers to raise the letters from the wall, allowing the lighting to project onto the building’s surface, creating a distinctive glow.

A bold, sophisticated channel letter sign is one of the easiest ways to capture the attention of your potential customers. Every lighted letter can be customized to represent your brand. Our team at National Neon handles all aspects of your signage project, from concept and design to installation. Contact us today!

Neon signs have been used for over a century. These bright, eye-catching displays have become an iconic symbol for bustling cityscapes, the fun and frivolity of entertainment, and the possibilities of the electronic age. Decades ago, there was nothing more modern than neon.

Today, there are other options for storefront signage, the forerunner being LED or light-emitting diodes. LED signs have many advantages, including durability, energy efficiency, and versatility. However, there’s no denying the vintage charm of a neon sign, and many consumers are appealed by their warm, authentic glow.

Retro neon signs are making a comeback. In this post, we will talk about the history of neon signs compared to today’s displays, where nostalgia meets contemporary design.

What is a neon sign?

Neon signs are electric signs made of long gas-discharge tubes. The sealed glass tubes have a metal electrode at each end, filled with several gasses, including its namesake neon. Neon is a noble gas that emits an orange glow when electricity is added. Other gasses and chemicals can be added to produce a variety of different colours. The tubes can be bent and manipulated to form letters, shapes, and custom designs.

When were neon lights the most popular?

The first neon signage made its debut in December 1910. Sometimes dubbed “liquid fire,” these dramatic, glowing signs hit their peak popularity from the 1920s to 1960s. Neon signs remained popular over several decades, and they were used for advertising, nightclubs, roadhouses, and storefronts. By the 1960s, the widespread use of neon signs began to decline as newer, more efficient technologies became available, mainly fluorescent and LED lighting. 

Neon’s popularity resurged in the 1980s – a decade known for its extreme fashions, iconic trends, and bright colours.

Today, consumers are rediscovering the classic allure of the retro neon sign. It’s safe to say that neon is making a serious comeback in our modern 21st century.

Why are neon signs regaining popularity?

Many consumers are attracted to a classic neon sign’s authentic glow and buzz. A nostalgic yearning for yesteryear has recently brought about a resurgence of interest in neon signs. People want to capture the essence of a vintage, retro era and are recognizing its historical significance.

Today’s sea of digital LED displays can be overwhelming and overstimulating, whereas a neon sign stands out as warm and inviting, bringing us back to a simpler time. Their eye-catching, photogenic quality makes them popular on social media, allowing users to capture their retro charm in the modern age.

How do today’s neon signs differ from the past?

What makes today’s contemporary neon signs different from several decades ago?  Beyond their visual appeal, here are a few reasons neon is making a comeback:

• Energy Efficiency – Modern neon lights are designed with energy-saving components, meaning they are more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. Contemporary neon signs are relatively inexpensive to run, helping save money on monthly utility bills while offering traditional neon’s vibrant glow.
• Affordability – Modern neon signs are much more affordable thanks to new design materials, like LED neon flex. Technological advancements have revolutionized the neon sign manufacturing process, reducing production costs and making custom designs more accessible.
• Safety – Today’s neon lights have protective features to prevent damage and breakage. Some modern LED neon signs are made from flexible silicone or acrylic tubes instead of glass so they won’t break, are free from harmful substances, and are not hot to the touch.
• Maintenance – Some maintenance is needed to keep your neon sign looking its best, including regular cleaning. Since contemporary neon signs are less likely to crack or break, you’ll not likely need to hire a professional for costly repairs and maintenance.
• Versatility – Modern neon lights offer a wide range of colours and design options, making them a versatile lighting solution.

The retro charm of an illuminated neon sign is very appealing to many consumers, and neon continues to stand the test of time. Today, many technological advancements allow us to feel the nostalgic pull of traditional neon with a contemporary twist. If you’re interested in a neon sign for your business or all your storefront signage needs, contact us today at National Neon!

Neon signs are a great way to add a unique and personal touch to your business. Custom-made neon signs can be a powerful marketing tool, offering a unique combination of decor and function. The warm, authentic glow appeals to many of today’s consumers, who yearn for the nostalgic feel of a classic neon sign. These eye-catching illuminated signs are perfect for grabbing the attention of potential customers and standing out from the competition.

In this post, we will learn more about custom neon signs and how they add a personal touch to your business.

What is a neon sign?

Traditional neon signs are made of sealed glass tubes filled with neon and other gasses. The tubes are bent and twisted to form letters or a design. When electricity is added, the neon emits light, causing the sign to glow. By adding different combinations of gasses, various colours can be produced. Today’s neon signs might be made from alternative materials such as flexible plastic, acrylic, or silicone. LED neon (or faux-neon) can closely mimic the appearance of glass neon.

How will a custom neon sign benefit my business?

Custom neon signs offer endless possibilities. They can be used in various business areas, from digital signage to office inspiration or as unique decor items. A custom business neon sign makes a bold statement and leaves a memorable first impression on potential customers.

Illuminated and Non-Illuminated Channel letters are also excellent options if you’re looking for modern alternatives. These signs provide greater versatility in design and are perfect for exterior and interior signage. Whether you choose the vibrant glow of neon or the sleek, high-visibility look of channel letters, both options effectively enhance your brand’s presence.

Here are a few more ways a custom neon sign can benefit your business:

• Brand Identity – A unique neon sign displaying your business name or custom logo can attract attention and establish brand identity.
• Durability – Modern neon signs are made with durable materials that ensure longevity. They are more energy-efficient than traditional neon, offering a sustainable option while saving you money.
• Makes a Statement – As we’ve mentioned, the retro charm of a neon sign is appealing to many customers. Neon signs are attractive, vibrant, and inviting, which makes them perfect for businesses looking to make a statement.
• Versatility – You can choose from various colours, shapes, and sizes to suit your business’s needs when creating your sign. You can choose from different fonts and designs. The final result is a bright, vibrant, unique display.
• Affordability – Thanks to new design materials and technological advancements that have revolutionized the neon sign manufacturing process, contemporary neon signs are more accessible and more affordable than ever.
• Low Maintenance – Neon signs require a bit of maintenance. Regular dusting and cleaning will ensure your sign continues to look its best. Modern neon signs are less likely to crack or break and require less maintenance than traditional glass.

Is a custom neon sign suitable for my business?

A custom neon sign can add a personal touch to nearly any business. Here are just a few examples:

• Restaurants and Cafés – Neon signs create a cozy, inviting atmosphere that can attract customers to your restaurant or coffee shop.
• Bars and Nightclubs – Classic neon signs are an iconic symbol of the fun and frivolity of entertainment. Enhance the ambiance of your bar, nightclub, or roadhouse with a striking neon sign.
• Office Spaces – A custom neon sign adds a personal touch to your office or workspace. An inspirational quote or sign that promotes your company’s value or mission can be appreciated by both employees and customers.
• Retail Stores – A memorable neon sign promoting sales, promotions, or new arrivals can draw attention to your store, attracting new customers and increasing foot traffic into your business.
• Hotels – Neon signs for hotel exteriors can enhance their appeal, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests. Custom neon signs can also be used in various areas of a hotel, such as the lobby, bar, restaurant, or wayfinding signs, providing both function and a memorable experience for visitors.
• Game Room – Neon signs for game rooms, arcades, or recreational areas can enhance the visual appeal and atmosphere of the space, contributing to an energized environment and experience.

These are just a few examples where a custom sign can add a personal touch to your business, but this is by no means an extensive list.  

Neon signs are here to stay. Contacting a reputable signage company can help you design a custom sign for your business. Get in touch with us today at National Neon and we can make your vision a reality!

Your business needs a sign to get the attention of potential customers. An illuminated storefront sign is attractive and enhances the visibility of your business. Two leading options in the signage industry are neon and LED. What’s the difference? Which should you choose for your brand? In this post, we’re going to discuss each option so you can choose the right illumination for your message.

Neon Signs

Neon lights have been used for over a century in storefront signage, advertising, and eye-catching displays. Neon signs are named because they use neon gas in a glass tube. When electricity is added, the neon produces a bright, glowing light. Colours are created by adding different elements to the neon gas, which produce different colours when they are ionized. Neon signs can be customized to form shapes, letters, or designs to promote a particular business or product.

LED

LED signs have become extremely popular. LED displays use light-emitting diodes to create a vivid display. LEDs emit light in a specific direction and come in a wide variety of colours. LED signs can be customized and made digital. There’s no doubt that LED signage is the way of the future.

Which type of sign is better?

Now that we know the difference between neon and LED signs, let’s take a look at the benefits of each:

Initial Cost 

LED signs tend to cost about 10% less than neon lighting. Depending on the size and style of your sign, prices may vary.

Energy Efficiency

LED lights are known for their energy efficiency. Large neon displays can require up to 15,000 volts to run, whereas LED signs only need 24 volts. LED lights are sustainable and can save you money on energy bills in the long run.

Longevity

LED lights are extremely durable, some lasting up to 100,000 hours! This means your LED sign could last over a decade. Traditional neon lights have a life expectancy of about 10,000 hours.

Maintenance Requirements

LED signs require little to no maintenance. Neon signs do require a bit of maintenance, such as checking for cracks and leaks in the tubings and cleaning out any accumulated dust and debris. Neon signs have a higher chance of breaking than LEDs and professional replacements can be costly. Neon signs can withstand cold weather, however, cold conditions may make the glass tubing more brittle and prone to damage, and neon lights should not be exposed to extreme temperature changes.

Customization

Both neon and LED signs can be customized to suit your business. However, LED signs offer the versatility of digitalization, where you can engage your customers, update your message, and add colourful images and videos to your signage. A digital sign allows you to keep your message current and continue to attract new customers.

Aesthetics

Of course, you want your sign to look good. Traditional neon lights give off a warm, vibrant glow, offering a nostalgic quality that appeals to many consumers. For businesses seeking that vintage charm, neon signs may be the perfect choice. On the other hand, Illuminated and Non-Illuminated Channel letters offer a modern alternative, providing more flexibility in design.

LEDs, which are commonly used in illuminated channel letters, have a cooler, brighter aesthetic and can be seen from a long distance, making them perfect for high-visibility locations. They also offer a wider range of colors, shapes, and sizes, giving you greater versatility in how you showcase your brand. Whether you prefer the classic feel of neon or the dynamic look of LED channel letters, each option can be tailored to meet your specific needs and attract customers effectively.

Sound

LED signs have no sound, whereas neon produces a constant low buzz. Some customers may appreciate the quiet of an LED sign whereas others are appealed by the nostalgic buzz of a neon sign.

Safety

LED signs are shatter-resistant and heat proof, whereas neon has breakable glass tubing and is hot to the touch. Today’s neon lights typically have protective features to prevent breakage.

Portability

LED signs are lightweight and are easy to transport and install. On the other hand, neon signs are heavy and prone to damage during shipping. You may need a specialist to mount your neon sign.

The choice between a neon sign vs. an LED sign for your business depends on your unique needs and personal preferences. There’s no doubt that LED signage offers several advantages over neon, including versatility, durability, and energy efficiency. LED lighting is suitable for many applications, including outdoor signage and indoor decorative lighting. However, the nostalgic, retro charm of a classic neon sign can’t be denied. Neon is still appealing to many consumers.  

The right choice will depend on the specific needs of your business. Whichever type of sign you choose, choosing a reputable sign company can deliver your message. Contact us today at National Neon Signs!