Comprehensive Guide to Cabinet Signs: Design, Materials, and Installation

Cabinet signs are a great way to make your business stand out in the crowd, especially if you’re located in a busy area. In a bustling, illuminated and non-illuminated signs like these ones can make a huge difference. With their box-like frame (or cabinet), they are known for their ability to house lights and other elements like logos, texts, and graphics. However, that might leave you wondering, “What can a cabinet sign do for me?” 

If you find yourself asking this question, we’re here to help. In our comprehensive guide, we will break down cabinet signs, their design elements, materials and installation process. Here' s everything you need to know about cabinet signs!

Elements of a Successful Cabinet Sign

The most important elements of a cabinet sign are their ability to act as a branding tool and make your business more visible. However, there are other aspects to take into account, including day and night visibility. Without further ado, let’s review what makes a cabinet sign so great.

Design Basics

When designing a cabinet sign for your business, you need to make something that represents you and what you do. Don’t forget about the following elements:

• Typography: The front should be readable while matching your brand’s style whether that be modern, traditional, or bold.
• Colour Scheme: If your brand uses a certain colour palette, use it to your advantage. However, you should remember that contrasting colours work best (i.e. light text on a dark background).
• Logo Incorporation: The logo should stand out, but not overwhelm the viewer. Remember to be subtle yet memorable.

Customization Options

Feel free to customize your cabinet sign until your heart’s content. However, it’s important to not go too out there. Consider the following:

• Size: Depending on where you put your sign, you can make it larger or smaller.
• Shape: Custom-cut signs can be adapted to fit in a certain spot and fit your brand.
• Layout: Choose between single and double sided designs.
• Lighting Effects: Halo lighting and backlit letters offer additional visibility.
• Materials: Choose a durable material and compare different ones before making a choice.

Finding Durable Cabinet Sign Materials

Like with any sign, your cabinet sign should be built to last. That’s one of the reasons choosing the right materials is essential. There’s nothing worse than a sign deteriorating before it has the chance to showcase your brand. Let’s break down different materials and which ones you should use where.

Commonly Used Materials

Every material has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Cabinet signs use a couple common materials, including:

• Acrylic: Lightweight, durable and easily customizable, this vibrant material works well on front faces. However, its glossy finish makes it prone to scratches.
• Aluminum: This solid metal is tough, rust-resistant and thrives in the great outdoors. The only downside is high upfront costs.
• Polycarbonate: Known to take a beating, this material is less prone to damage. Unfortunately, it tends to be on the pricier side.

Picking a Material Based on Location

Cabinet signs can thrive indoors and outdoors. As a result, you have to choose your material based on where you’re going to put the sign. Here’s a brief explanation:

• Indoor: When your cabinet sign is inside your building, you don’t have to worry about damage. Acrylic and PVC (polyvinyl chloride) signs work best and can save you money.
• Outdoor: When you’re displaying a sign outside for maximum visibility, it should be weather-proof. That’s when the investment in aluminium and polycarbonate signs are worth it.

Understanding the Cabinet Sign Installation Process

Installing a cabinet sign can be a hassle if you aren’t experienced. However, it’s not impossible. Despite this, deciding between professional and DIY installation and understanding the process are both essential. Then, once you get your sign installed, you have to maintain it. Let’s discuss the cabinet sign installation process.

Professional vs. DIY Installation

Should you pay extra for a professional installer to put up your cabinet sign? Of course you should! Below we dive into the risk of DIY installation and positive aspects of professional installation:

• DIY Risks: While DIY installation can save you money, there are too many risks for it to be worth it. Unsafe signs, additional repairs and non-compliance with local regulations are a few things to watch out for.
• Professional Installation: When you ask a professional to install your cabinet sign, you reap the benefits. It ensures your sign is secure, complies with building codes, and is properly wired for longevity.

Installation Process

The cabinet sign installation process isn’t as simple as you might think. There are several steps involved in installing this unique signage. We break it down for you below:

• Initial Consultation: First, you will meet with a signage expert to determine the sign’s location, lighting, and design.
• Measurements: A technician will measure the space where the sign is going to be installed, including the height and width.
• Mounting: Depending on your sign’s design, it will be mounted on a wall, post or another structure.
• Electrical Connections: If you decide to illuminate your sign, an electrician will set up the lighting. 
• Compliance: Next, the technician reviews local zoning laws, building and electrical does to determine that your sign complies.
• Permits: If your sign is outdoors, it likely needs a permit. If this is the case, you will need to get one before lighting up your sign.
• Final Checks: After your sign is up and all the appropriate paperwork is filled out, your technician will ensure the sign is level, illuminated, and has no wiring issues. 

Maintenance Tips

Cabinet signs are fairly easy to maintain. In fact, it’s one of the reasons so many businesses gravitate towards them in the first place. Follow our maintenance tips to keep your sign shining bright for years to come:

• Check Wiring Regularly: If you notice your sign is starting to dull, check the wiring. If the wires are wearing out, call in a licensed technician to get your sign repaired.
• Clean Surfaces: Over time, dust buildup can begin to block your sign’s light. Clean your sign on a regular basis to prevent this issue, especially if it's outdoors, exposed to the elements.

Invest in a Cabinet Sign Today!

Cabinet signs are cost-effective, versatile, and highly visible. What business wouldn’t want one? As long as you take care of it, use the right materials, and get the necessary repairs, it will last for years to come. If you’re on the hunt for a good cabinet sign, National Neon Signs can help you find what you’re looking for. 

Ready to make your business shine with cabinet signs? Contact us today to get a quote!