Since the 1920s, channel letter signs have been changing the game of business signage. When you want to create a lasting impression that can be seen for miles, you choose a channel letter sign for the job. If you are considering new signage for your business, do not pass up the chance to upgrade to stunning channel letters.
Let’s talk about channel letters, so you can make the right decision when it comes to your business. Channel Letter Signage 101 is now in session.
What is Channel Letter Signage?
Channel letters, sometimes also called dimensional letters, are a form of signage that are 3D alphanumeric symbols. They are usually made of plastic, metal, or both and can be used indoors and outdoors. Aside from symbols, channel letters can also be incorporated into other forms of signage.
How are Channel Letter Signs Fabricated?
Channel letter signage is made up of three parts: The face, the return, and the back. Depending on the kind of channel letters, the materials and their placement will differ. For example, the face of a front-lit channel letter sign is usually made with either acrylic or polycarbonate. The vinyl can be any color, though this may affect the illumination. Those acrylic or polycarbonate inserts are attached to the letter with what is known as a trim cap. Trim caps are made with aluminum that has been anodized or coated with durable plastic. It is attached to the body of the channel letter using a liquid bonding agent.
The Return
Following the face of the channel letter is something called the return, which more or less creates the body or depth of the sign. The most common depth range is between 3-8 inches, though the regulated depth is controlled by your city or county.
In order to create an array of shapes and symbols, a computerized machine is used to bend the metal accordingly. The aluminum sheet can be painted or shaded with standard colors or a Pantone Matching System (PMS), if available.
The Back
Same as the front, the back of the channel letter depends on the type. For front-lit channel letters, the back is made with router-cut aluminum that comes in different thicknesses, depending on the size of the letter. For back-lit channel letters, this section may be swapped for vinyl.
Illumination
When making channel letters, you have plenty of options, but the main one is whether you want illumination. Sometimes, you are limited by local building and signage codes. Should you be allowed to use lit channel letters, then the visibility of your brand will increase dramatically. Channel letters often use LED illumination, also making them energy-efficient.
What Are The Different Kinds of Channel Letter Signs?
The next thing you need to know about channel letter signage is the types available. Front-lit and back-lit have been mentioned in passing, so you may have a general idea about the different kinds.
Here are some details:
Front-Lit or Face-Illuminated
The most common form of channel letter signage, front-lit, also known as face-illuminated, contains LED lights that shine through the vinyl face of the letter. Front-lit channel letter signage is popular because of its flexibility and versatility.
Back-Lit
Also known as halo or reverse channel letters, the back-lit variation is a flipped-over version of front-lit channel letters. Rather than having the light shining out from the letters, the light hits the wall and then radiates outward, giving the sign a “halo effect.”
Back-lit signage is often used indoors, where there is plenty of wall space to utilize for the halo effect.
Combination-Lit Channel Letters
Another option is a combination-lit channel letter, which contains both front- and back-lit properties. You can use both forms of lighting to create contrast and intrigue.
What Are The Mounting Options?
How do you plan on mounting your channel letter signage? There are three options:
Raceway Mount
This method uses a metal box containing a power supply and wiring directed to each individual letter. Many commercial buildings require the use of a raceway because it reduces the number of holes required to mount the sign. Furthermore, raceway mounts can be painted the same color as the building, minimizing the influence it has on your signage.
Direct or Flush Mount
When the channel letters are mounted directly to the building without the use of a raceway, it is called a flush or direct mount. The sign is attached with non-corrosive fasteners. Best with back-lit channel letters, this keeps hardware and wires from getting in the way of the halo effect. Wires and the power supply are instead installed in a bulkhead or behind the facade of your building.
Backer Mount
A backer mount is when channel letters are connected to a backer panel that is larger than the sign. Think of it as a raceway mount but with a larger panel. Some backer panels will contain the wiring and power supply.
What Are The Benefits of Channel Letter Signage?
Now that you know about channel letters, let’s talk about what they can do for your business. There are several benefits to consider:
- Channel letter signs offer top-notch visibility by design whether they are lit or not
- LED-lit channel letters are highly energy-efficient and eco-friendly
- Customizable designs provide loads of versatility
- Channel letter signs can increase brand identity
- Constructed with durable materials
Get Your Channel Letter Signage from Tupp Signs
To summarize this quick guide to channel letters, this form of signage is wonderful for businesses that are looking to make an impression and have the maximum amount of flexibility over the look of their signage. Now that you know your options, why not contact Tupp Signs to get your channel letters started? Our amazing team has been serving the region for over 90 years. What can we do for you?