Illuminated Channels

Our team of professional custom sign experts is experienced in all areas of illuminated channel sign production, including:

Design
Permitting and engineering
Fabrication
Installation

Channel letters work great for:

Personalized outdoor signs
Custom made signs
Outdoor business signs
Building signs
Storefront signs
And more

Sign Central Front–Lit Channel Letters

A standard Sign Central channel letter is a three-dimensional graphic sign element. Its channel is fabricated from sheet metal, most often aluminum since it will not rust. A flat sheet of aluminum is typically cut on a table by a computer-controlled router. This creates the back of the channel and is the basis for the letter shape.

The sides of the channel letter, called the “returns,” are then formed by bending a three- to six-inch-wide (150 mm) strip of the aluminum sheet around the aluminum back. This return can be welded at the seam or flanged and riveted to the back to create a solid “can” in the shape of the Sign Central channel letter. The letter can is painted and fitted with any lighting components necessary such as neon gas tubes or light-emitting diode (LED) modules.

A translucent plastic face usually of 3/16″ thick sheet acrylic or polycarbonate is cut to fit the open face of the letter can. A trim cap border is applied to its edges which give the letter face a finished appearance and creates a fastening surface to attach it to the letter can. When illuminated at night, channel letter signs draw the eye of passersby.

Sign Central’s Reverse Channel Letters

Reverse channel letter signs provide a distinctive and memorable approach to your client’s signage program. Reverse channel letters are often utilized by signage clients who value a prestigious image. These letters are sometimes called “halo lit” letters.

Reverse channel letters are produced with aluminum faces and returns. These letters are mounted away from the wall so a halo forms behind the letters. A clear polycarbonate back prevents birds and other animals from nesting inside the letter. LED illumination is utilized for reverse channel letters.

Sign Central Exposed Neon Channel Letters

The sides of the channel letter, called the “returns,” are then formed by bending a three- to six-inch wide (150 mm) strip of the aluminum sheet around the aluminum back. This return can be welded at the seam or flanged and riveted to the back to create a solid “can” in the shape of the Sign Central channel letter. The letter can is painted and fitted with any lighting components necessary such as neon gas tubes.

A translucent plastic face usually of 3/16″ thick sheet acrylic or polycarbonate is cut to fit the open face of the letter can and this exposes the neon. A trim cap border is applied to its edges which give the letter face a finished appearance and creates a fastening surface to attach it to the letter can. When illuminated at night, channel letter signs draw the eye of passersby.

Contact the Sign Experts

Reach out to our friendly team to get started on your next custom sign project to promote your brand and grow your business. Call us at 847-250-0690 or fill out our online form by clicking here. Also, be sure to check out our other custom sign services, including reception signs, vehicle graphics, custom vinyl banners, and so much more. We look forward to helping those in the Chicagoland draw attention to their business or event with immaculate custom-made signs. Contact the sign experts today!

exterior signage