When a business is determining what type of sign to get for their building, the decision can be overwhelming.  When it is decided that a channel-letter sign would be the best fit for their needs, the next step is to decide whether the sign should be illuminated or not.  And many of the customers we help aren’t quite sure of the real pros and cons of each choice.  So, the experts at Forerunner Signs & Graphics walk them through the benefits of both.

Many businesses use illuminated signage in their store so that their customers can easily spot them especially at night; but other than using lights in signage for visibility, this is also a way to improve the aesthetic quality of their signs.  At night, their logo or their store’s name can pop out even more with the right kind of signage light.

Depending on the effect a business owner wants, signage can be whole-lit, front-lit, back-lit, or side-lit.  Today, LED (Light Emitting Diodes) is the most commonly used lights for illuminated signage.  Below are some advantages and disadvantages of using lit signs to better help you determine if this type of sign will fit your business needs.

 

Disadvantages

Because of the technology and materials required in building illuminated signage, the cost for making one is already higher than other types of signage.  Don’t forget the man hours and manufacturing costs.  Acrylic cut-outs and build-ups are especially more expensive than flat signage, but they do look more attractive.

Over time, this signage will start to wear out.  Some can have busted lights, fading colors, and built up dirt.  To avoid this from happening, you will need a professional sign maintenance company, like Forerunner, that specializes in cleaning and replacing parts of illuminated signage.

Although most of these signs are already energy efficient, the electricity use still does add up every month.  If your store operates until late night or early morning, this means that your sign has to stay on for long hours.

Advantages

Eyes are naturally drawn to light, which is why using illuminated signage is the popular choice among business owners.  If your signage has the right graphic elements, it will look good in daytime with the lights off, and will still look spectacular at night with the lights on.

With a well-lit sign placed in a good spot, your customers can easily find you even from afar.  Especially if you have first-time clients visiting your store, you do not want them having a hard time looking for your place just because you do not have visible signage.

Illuminated signage is not limited to outdoor use only as a front sign.  These can also be placed indoors for many purposes.  It can bear your company logo, serve as a promo announcer, and some types are designed to contain more messages.  LED displays, for example, are now commonly used to advertise different products and events.  Also, safety signs, like the directional signs used to show where the fire exits are, use lit signs.

Every type of signage has its advantages and disadvantages.  I you are not sure whether to invest in an illuminated sign or not, contact the experts at Forerunner Signs.  We’ll be happy to work with you to best meet your needs and work within your budget!

Michael Ryan