LED Illuminated Signs

Easily the most attention-grabbing signage, illuminated signs have become ubiquitous in shopping centers and along busy roads. All types of organizations choose to light up their brand with LED illuminated signs such as face-lit channel letters, light boxes, halo-lit letters, and custom routed cabinets.

Styles

Face-Lit & Channel Letters

Halo-Lit

Large illuminated sign with lettering in light-permeable material so internal light shines through

Illuminated Cabinets

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Insights

Uses

LED illuminated signs are widely used for businesses that need strong visibility,especially in low-light or nighttime conditions. You’ll see them in storefronts, shoppingcenters, office buildings, and roadside signage. These signs can take many forms,including channel letters, lightboxes, cabinet signs, and backlit panels. Because LEDscan be integrated into different sign styles, they work for both bold, attention-grabbingdisplays and more subtle, architectural lighting effects.

Benefits

One of the biggest benefits of LED signage is efficiency. LEDs use significantly lessenergy than older lighting options like neon or fluorescent tubes, which helps reduceoperating costs over time. They also have a long lifespan, often lasting years beforeneeding replacement. In terms of appearance, LEDs provide bright, even illuminationand can be configured in different colors and intensities. This makes it easier tomaintain consistent branding and ensure the sign remains readable from a distance.Many systems also allow for dimming or timed operation, adding another layer ofcontrol.

Installation

Installation requires both structural and electrical planning. The sign itself needs to besecurely mounted, whether it’s attached to a building, a raceway, or a freestandingstructure. Electrical components must be properly wired, sealed, and connected to areliable power source. Because these are illuminated systems, local codes and permitsoften apply, and in many cases, a licensed electrician is involved. Proper installation notonly ensures the sign looks right but also helps prevent issues like uneven lighting orwater intrusion.

Care

Caring for LED illuminated signs is mostly about routine checks and basic cleaning. Thesign face should be cleaned periodically to keep the light output clear and bright. It’salso important to inspect the lighting system from time to time to make sure all sectionsare working evenly. While LEDs last a long time, power supplies or drivers may needreplacement eventually. Keeping an eye on these components and addressing smallissues early can extend the life of the sign and maintain its performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the major types of sign illumination?

FACE LIT: Also known as front-lit signage, face lit signs have a light source that shines directly through the translucent face of the sign, illuminating the letters or shapes. It’s a common and popular choice for businesses due to its bright and visible appearance, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
HALO LIT: A halo lit sign or reverse-lit sign is a type of illuminated signage that creates a glowing effect around the letters or logo. This is achieved by mounting the letters or logo on standoffs, creating a space between the sign and the surface, and then shining light from behind to create a halo effect. This type of signage is often used for its sleek, modern, and virtually striking appearance.
SPOT LIT: As the name describes, these signs use a spotlight placed some distance away from the sign to make it readable at night. These are frequently used to highlight carved or other signs that cannot be internally lit, or when getting power all the way to the sign is a challenge.

Are there light colors other than white?

Yes, through the use of LED lighting, virtually any color can be incorporated into an illuminated sign.

Do illuminated signs require a dedicated electrical circuit?

Yes, according to the National Electrical Code, lighted signs generally require their own dedicated branch circuit. This ensures a continuous power supply and prevents overloading other circuits.

Can Elmark Sign Company connect to an existing power source near the sign?

Yes, Elmark Sign Company can connect to an existing power source at the specific sign location on the property. When clients need power to be run out to a sign from the circuit breaker box, we will partner with their electrician to complete the installation.

Are the signs UL certified?

Yes, Elmark Sign Company only installs UL certified lighting. UL certification, from Underwriters Laboratories, indicates a product has been tested and certified to meet specific safety standards.

How much do illuminated signs cost?

The price varies greatly by size, material, and the complexity of the installation. While small, interior projects start in the low thousands, large, exterior signs at height are frequently several multiples higher in cost.

How long do they take to make?

Custom-fabricated, lighted signs generally take 3-6 weeks, depending on size and complexity.