SignWorks is finalizing permits for an illuminated channel letter sign for our retail client Alma & Bee and will soon perform the electrical sign installation process. The permitting process for this sign was very long but will be finalized very soon. Some cities are very meticulous so the process which started with a site survey that started last September is only now ending. Our client selected halo lit channel letters with warm white LEDs and we had been working with the client long before that on the decision to move forward with the estimate and actually place the order.
Working with long time wholesaler, Gemini, we started the design process and experimented with the lettering and LED colors. We also experimented and suggested a raceway behind the lettering in order to minimize the number of mounting/puncture holes that we would need if we mounted directly to the buildings exterior surface. In the end we opted for a black Aluminum Composite (ACM) backer which made the gold-colored letters pop even more. We hope you agree that the resulting illuminated halo lit sign looks fabulous!
Working with Gemini during the proofing approval process we thickened the logo lettering stroke so that we could accommodate the LED bulbs. A minimum stroke width of 1” for the stainless steel illuminated channel letters and a letter height minimum of 6” is required. The overall dimensions of the stainless-steel logo letters (painted gold) were approximately 57 inches wide and 24 inches tall. All of our electrical products must comply with UL specification standards and testing, as needed for electrical signs. And because we used Gemini, our client benefits from their lifetime pass through warranty!
Lighting options vary and this client chose reverse or backlit channel letter meaning the space “behind” the letter is lit and makes for a floating effect. The individual letters are shaped boxes that contain a lighting element behind them that are typically lit by either neon tubing or LED bulbs. We opted for LED which is the most prevalent. The fact that the letters “light up” makes them highly visible and an effective sign for both outdoor and indoor use. In this case nighttime visibility was desired.
You will see Illuminated channel letters used on a variety of buildings, at shopping centers, retail and grocery outlets and by banks, churches and schools. They are professional looking signs that are versatile and stand out, especially at night. If you opt for an illuminated sign It’s important to maintain your it in good working order and to avoid burnt out letters and the awkward spelling errors created by poor sign maintenance. It would send the wrong message to potential customers if you did otherwise!