Blog

Channel Letter Signs That Reflect Your Brand Image Light Up Orange County, CA Buildings!

Earlier, we discussed channel letter signs in Orange County, focusing on what makes them so effective. This time, we want to look at the different types of custom channel letter signs. What is the main difference? Illumination!

Front-Lit Channel Letters

By far the most popular type of channel letter signs in Orange County and neighboring Los Angeles County, these channel letters have the light shining through the front. Made of acrylic or polycarbonate in the front and aluminum on the back and sides, front-lit channel letters provide strong visibility day and night. We can customize these channel letters with colors, printed overlays, and custom shapes. 

Reverse-Lit (also known as Halo-Lit) Channel Letters

This construction type is the direct opposite of front-lit letters. Here, the faces are made of solid aluminum, which prevents any light from escaping. Instead, the LEDs shine backward toward the wall. A transparent acrylic back panel allows light to reflect off the wall, creating an attractive halo around each letter. Companies with high-end, sophisticated branding needs tend to prefer this illumination style. We recommend installing these letters on a smooth wall or choosing a backer panel to create a uniform glow.

A Combination of Front and Back-Lit LEDs

This combination creates premium signage that stands out dramatically. Acrylic faces allow the light to present the brand’s vibrant colors. Halo lighting escaping the back establishes the illumination that bathes each letter in a soft glow. You frequently see these combination channel letters used by luxury retailers, hotels, and restaurants. 

Open Face Channel Letters

Does your brand embrace a retro or vintage vibe? Open-face channel letters mimic the signage design of the 1960s. Bars, theaters, and diners frequently favor this design. In the past, you had to invest in more expense neon bulbs; however, we can now mimic the look with budget-friendly LEDs. 

How to Choose the Channel Letter Style That is Right for Your Brand

Which impression do you want to make on customers? What type of emotion do you want to evoke? Are there practical considerations that must influence your channel letter type?

• Front-lit. Ideal for bold, energetic brands with a retail focus, these channel letters are also well-suited for long-distance visibility. By the way, front-lit letters create an excellent contrast when installed on dark building surfaces. 
• Halo-lit. Good options for luxury brands, professional, and sophisticated displays, this style is also ideal for signage near pedestrians. Examples include pedestrian zones, reduced signage mounting height, and indoor signs you might see in shopping centers or malls. Halos also look great when the wall color is light or has a “busy” design. Here, the halo creates a contrast.
• Combo-lit. Opt for this channel letter design when you want your signage to be seen from a farther distance and concurrently present your brand with a contemporary, high-impact vibe. 

Let’s talk about it. Call us today to discuss your options!