Frequently Asked Questions
What are channel letters?
Channel letter signs are illuminated 3d letters that are mounted to the exterior of a building. The can be face lit or lit from behind to create a “halo” effect. They are considered one of the more premium sign products available.

What the difference between channel letters and dimensional letters?
In one word – illumination. Channel letters are illuminated while dimensional letters are not. Because of this, channel letter are generally deeper, as the aluminum “can” structures must be deep enough to hold the LED modules. Click the following links if you’re interested in dimensional letters (3D letters).
How much do channel letters cost?
Channel letters are considered premium signage products and tend to be expensive. The cost of a channel letter will vary widely, based on the materials, complexity and size. The average retail cost of a single 12″ high channel letter will range between $200-$400.
How are channel letters made?
Channel letter fabrication involves several main components – The faces, the backs, the sides (returns), the led modules, and trim caps.
The faces and backs are often made from poly-carbonate and aluminum, respectively. Both are cut with a CNC router. Vinyl is applied to the poly-carbonate faces to match any desired color.
The sides (returns) are made by bending, either with a machine or by hand, a thin coil of aluminum, which is usually 5″ in depth. The returns are secured to the aluminum backs, usually by rivets. The faces are secured by a thin piece of plastic called “Trim Cap,” which follows the contour of each letter.
The LED modules are secured to the aluminum back of the letters, which allows the light to shine through the poly-carbonate face (for front lit letters).
What’s the difference between raceway mounted and flush stud mounted?
Raceway mounted channel letters involves the production of an aluminum structure (Raceway), which is generally 9″ high and spans the length of your letters. The letters are mounted to the raceway and the raceway, not the letters, are mounted to the building. The raceway is often painted to match the building façade, in order to blend and keep the focus on the letters.
Flush stud mounted letters are installed directly to the building. The installer will tape a pattern, or template, to the building. The pattern will show an exact, computer generated placement of each drill hole. After drilling each hole, the installer removes the pattern and mounts the letters, which have studs in the back of them that fit exactly into the pre-drilled holes.

What is the benefit of using a raceway?
There are two main benefits to using a raceway – Ease of installation and reduced number of penetrations (drill holes) into the building.
Raceway installations generally involve drilling 4-8 holes into the building, as compared to flush stud, or direct mounted letters, which often require 4 or more holes per letter. Many landlords require raceway mounting to limit the number of drill holes into their building.
From a financial standpoint, adding a raceway will certainly add to the cost of your sign. It should also reduce the time/labor required for the installation.
How long will it take for me to receive my order?
The average turnaround time for channel letters is 7-15 business days.