Illuminated vs non-illuminated signs

Types of each

Illuminated

• Light boxes – a cabinet with a translucent printed face lit from inside. See light boxes.
• Face-lit channel letters – each letter glows.
• Halo-lit letters – light shines onto the wall behind the letters.
• Externally lit signs – a flat sign lit by spotlights or a light bar.

Non-illuminated

• Flat boards in ACP or chromadek.
• Unlit 3D letters, which use depth and shadow.
• Window graphics and perspex signs.

When illumination is worth it

• You trade after dark – restaurants, bars, pharmacies, convenience stores, gyms and late-night retail.
• Winter evenings matter – even daytime businesses lose light early in winter.
• Your street is poorly lit – a lit sign makes you easier to find.
• You are on a busy road – lit pylons and fascia signs catch drivers at night.
• You want a premium impression – halo-lit letters in a reception, for example.

When a non-illuminated sign is enough

• You only trade in daylight and the street is well lit.
• You are inside a mall where the walkway is lit.
• The budget is tight, or there is no practical power at the sign position.
• The centre or landlord does not allow illuminated signs.

A well-designed unlit sign with strong contrast and good letter size often outperforms a poorly designed lit one. See sign size and viewing distance.

Practical considerations

• Power – illuminated signs need a power supply near the sign. Electrical requirements are discussed when we quote.
• Approvals – shopping centres often control lighting on shopfronts, and larger external signs may need municipal approval. See signage approvals.
• Running and maintenance – lit signs use electricity and occasionally need attention to the lighting. Ask about this on your quote.
• Artwork – colours look different when backlit, so artwork should be checked for illumination.
• Cost – illuminated signs are more expensive to make and install. All custom signs are quoted, with installation quoted separately.

A middle path

If you are unsure, consider a non-illuminated sign with external lighting added later, or lit lettering for the name only with the rest of the sign unlit. Browse illuminated signs or request a quote for both options to compare.

Frequently asked questions