Importance of Channel Letters

Importance of Channel Letters

in Aug 28, 2023

Versatile, cost effective, flexible design, indoor & outdoor, environmentally friendly: These are just a few of the reasons that channel letters are the most popular type of signage we manufacture.  These signs help build brand recognition 24 hours a day and are extremely popular because of their ability to be customized while being cost effective.

First impressions are everything for a business. You need that curb appeal to drive sales. Channel letters are easy to read from a distance and have high visibility making them a perfect choice. Channel letters are different from other types of signs in that each letter is separate from the next. Being 3D gives the sign depth and allows you to stand out from traditional banners or flat signs.

The channel letters we manufacture are made of aluminum and cut by a CNC router. The router creates the back of the channel and is the basis for the letter shape. Returns, the sides of the letter, are then formed by bending a 3- to 6-inch-wide strip of aluminum sheet around the aluminum back. This return can be welded or bent depending on what type of letter is chosen. The shape made from bending is called the “can”.  If welded, the letter can is then painted and fitted with LED modules. If preformed, the letter can isn’t painted because it comes pre-colored.

Illuminated Channel Letters

  • Energy efficient
  • Low voltage
  • Low maintenance

Non-Illuminated Channel Letters

  • Affordable
  • Illumination can be added later

Preformed Channel Letters

  • Pre-made aluminum return
  • Lower cost
  • Faster turnaround time

Welded Channel Letters

  • Significant strength over preformed letters
  • Superior appearance
  • Aluminum return welded or bent into shape

Customizable Design

The possibilities are endless. Shape, size, color, font style, logo are all design options to consider when creating a channel letter sign. If you need help with these elements don’t hesitate to contact us!

Lit or Non-Lit

Not all businesses need to have LED lit channel letters, but we offer both options for those that do. The most popular is front-lit, which is standard, made with an acrylic face. We offer a standard stock of Principal LED modules to fit all product applications which include a ten-year product warranty and 5-year labor. UL or Non-UL listed.

Front-Lit: This is the standard for channel letters. LEDs sit under the acrylic front to illuminate the letters from inside.

Open-Face: There are no front faces on this type of channel letter which leaves LED bulbs exposed. This type of lighting provides a warm and excellent color-rendering characteristic that is unique.

Indoor & Outdoor Use

Because channel letters are so versatile, they can be used indoors and outdoors in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your needs.

Branding & Visibility

These two go hand-in-hand. If your brand isn’t legible because of the font chosen, it won’t matter the color, shape, style or size your sign. Consistent and clear branding is key to being successful. If you customer is confused about your signage, then that is bad for business. When you have a consistent image across all platforms you look more professional and more appealing to potential clientele.

Environmentally-Friendly

This type of sign is a great environmentally friendly option. These signs last for years with proper maintenance and their durability means less waste of materials which is great for the environment and saves you money in the long run from not having to replace your sign so often. Being fit with LEDs is also environmentally friendly as LEDs are extremely energy efficient and will last for years.

Whether you choose channel letters or not we would love help with your next project! We have a wealth of information regarding signs so don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.