Today we take an in-depth look at one of the most popular types of signs – lighted channel letter signs.
Components of Channel Letter Signs
Channel letter signs are typically made of three parts: the face, the return, and the trim cap. The face is the part of the sign visible from the front. It is made from a clear or opaque material (depending on the lighting choice) which is typically acrylic or polycarbonate. The return is the back part of the sign, which gives the sign depth and dimension. It is made from aluminum and is usually painted to match the color of the face or building. The trim cap is a thin strip of aluminum which wraps around the edge of the sign, giving it a finished look.
Lighting Options for Channel Letters
- Front-lit: Front-lit channel letters have LEDs (light-emitting diodes) mounted in the channel within the return of the sign. The light shines through the face of the sign, illuminating it from the front.
- Back-lit or reverse-lit: Back-lit channel letters also have LEDs mounted in the channel; however, the light emits through the back creating a halo effect around the lettering.
- Combination-lit: Combination-lit channel letters are a combination of front- and back-lit. In this type of sign, LEDs are mounted in the channel and illuminates through both the front and back of the letter.
- Open-face: Open-face channel letters do not have any material covering the front of the letter. The LEDs are mounted in the channel and shine directly out the front of the letter without obstruction and consumers can see the lighting source inside. The exposed lighting element creates a unique look.
Mounting Options for Channel Letters
- Flush mounting is the most common installation for channel letter signs. The letters are installed flush (or level) with the surface they are being mounted to. This option is available for front-lit and open-face lighting options.
- Raceway mounting is where the channel letters are mounted on a metal track called a raceway, which is attached to the building. The raceway hides the wires and gives the sign a clean look. This option is available for all lighting options.
- Stand-off mounting where the sign is mounted away from the surface, creates depth and dimension. This option is perfect for back-lit and combination-lit signs as it allows for space for the light to shine through between the building and the letter, creating the halo effect.
How Channel Letters are Installed
Installation of channel letter signs is done by a professional sign company like FASTSIGNS® of Boise, ID.
The first step is determining the sign’s location and marking the mounting points. Once the mounting points are determined, we drill holes and insert anchors into the building. Next, we attach the raceway (if applicable) and begin to wire the sign. Finally, we secure the face and return of the sign, and test the lighting.
Call FASTSIGNS® of Boise, ID, if you have any questions.
