The A, B, C’s of Channel Letters

Channel letters are iconic, illuminated signs that add a striking visual element to building exteriors. With their customizable design and vibrant illumination, channel letters are a powerful tool for brand recognition. In this blog post, we cover the different types of channel letters available for interior and exterior business storefronts.

 – A – The Architecture of channel letters and what makes them so Attractive to Add to your sign family

According to Wikipedia, channel letters are standard three-dimensional graphic sign elements with their own separate lighting components.  Its channel is fabricated from sheet metal, most often aluminum, since it will not rust. The sides of the letter are known as returns and are formed by bending the metal around an aluminum back and then welding at the seam and the letter is painted and fitted with any lighting components such as neon gas tubes or more energy-efficient LEDs.  A translucent plastic face usually of 3⁄16 in thick sheet acrylic fiber or polycarbonate is cut to fit the open face of the letter can. A trim cap border is applied to its edges which gives the letter face a finished appearance and creates a fastening surface to attach it to the letter can.

Due to their durability, visibility, and customization options, channel letters are popular for businesses of all sizes. They are a recognizable and effective way to attract attention and enhance a brand’s presence. Stay ahead of the latest channel letters trends by contacting our sign experts today.

 What makes dimensional letters so Appealing?

• Channel letters demand ATTENTION! They are highly visible from a distance, day and night, ensuring your business stands out.
• Channel letters come in an array of colors, shapes, fonts, sizes, and combinations. That means your sign can be as unique as your business.
• Channel letters work round the clock, identifying your location and touting your brand.
• Channel letters can be outfitted with power-saving LED components, making them both ecologically and economically a smart choice.
• Channel letters can be integrated with Lightcloud technology, allowing you to control your sign using a smart device, tablet or computer!
• And, channel letters are e durable and require minimal maintenance, ensuring a long-lasting investment.

Channel letters are attention-grabbing showstoppers that make your business impossible to miss. With their impressive size, vibrant illumination, and three-dimensional design, channel letters are a powerful tool for drawing attention to your business. If your business is in the back corner of a retail center or busy cityscape, channel letters can be designed to POP and help your brand stand out!

 – B – Back to Basics – Channel letters fall into four Basic types:

Standard Front-Lit
The most common type, standard front-lit channel letters, are built with aluminum backing and sides (returns). Letters are finished with a polycarbonate or acrylic face and illuminated using LEDs or neon. The face of each letter is lit from within, spelling out your business’s name in vivid color and light. Channel letters can also be used for logos.

Reverse Channel Letters or Halos
Halo-lit (reverse channel letters) use spacers to raise the letters from the wall, allowing the internal lighting to project onto the building’s surface, creating a distinctive and sophisticated glow or halo. They are made from similar materials as standard channel letters.

Raceway Mount
Letters are attached to a metal raceway, designed to house the wiring and power supply. Raceways are popular with landlords, building, and property management companies as installation require less drilling into the building surface. Raceways are often painted to blend seamlessly with the exterior of the building.

Open Face Lit Channel Letters
Open face lit channel letters employ the same aluminum backs and returns as other channel signs. But, the letters are either open or have a clear face to expose the “neon” elements inside. Open face channels bring the flash and the fun to your location. There’s no denying the pizzaz of neon or the illusion of neon.

 – C – Complete the Channel Letters with Installation and Integrations to Control your signage in a secured environment

Direct (Flush Mount)
Letters are attached directly to the exterior wall of the building. Electrical and power components are then installed behind the wall or building façade. Direct mount is a more complex installation requiring access to the space behind the exterior but results in the most polished and clean appearance. Reverse lit letters are often flush mounted to accommodate the needed spacers.

Backer Mount
Letters are attached to a backer panel – essentially a metal cabinet – that contains all of the wiring and power supply. The cabinet, which is larger than the letters themselves, can be installed onto the wall or behind the building façade.

Raceway Mount
Letters are attached to a metal raceway, designed to house the wiring and power supply. Raceways are popular with landlords, building, and property management companies as installation requires less drilling into the building surface. Raceways are often painted to blend seamlessly with the exterior of the building.

Lightcloud Technology
Imagine controlling your sign with your mobile device! Lightcloud technology can be integrated with your channel letters, allowing you easy control of the brightness and energy level of your sign. A secure network and your smart phone, computer or tablet is all that’s needed to make adjustments with just a touch. Ask a Philadelphia Sign representative about Lightcloud for your channel letters.

PSCO Sign Group: Your Partner for High-Impact Channel Letters!

Connect with PSCO Sign Group to bring your brand to life. As a leading provider of channel letters, our team handles all aspects of your signage project, from design and fabrication to installation. We ensure your channel letters maximize the available space, comply with local regulations, and meet your desired timeframe. Our commitment to excellence guarantees your signage is visually stunning and effective in promoting your brand.