Lightbox signs are an attractive and functional signage option. But how do you know if this is the best style for your business?
In this article we will discuss the features and benefits of lightbox signs to help you determine if this is the right choice for your brand.
Feel free to click on the links below to jump ahead to the next section!
At AGC, we design, manufacture, install and maintain a variety of signs styles, including lightbox signs. Contact us today for more information about our services!
Everything you need to know
about Lightbox Signs
A storefront lightbox sign makes it easy for customers to find your business.
1. What is a lightbox sign?
A lightbox sign is a type of sign made primarily from a container and a thin film of material. The container that lights up, illuminating the entire sign.
Take a look at some of the examples below that compare a lightbox storefront sign to other types of illuminated signs so that you can see the difference.
A lightbox sign…
…compared to a neon sign.
Here, you can see the difference between a neon sign and a lightbox sign. The lightbox sign’s backdrop is lit up, not the letters itself. For the neon sign, the actual intricate letters and additional design is light up using specialized lights.
And a lightbox sign…
…versus a backlit sign.
In the example above, we compare a lightbox sign to a backlit sign. Unlike the lightbox, the backlit sign backdrop is not lit up at all - only the lettering lights up. Whereas the lightbox sign box lights up, the letters itself do not.
2. What are lightbox sign alternatives?
If you want an illuminated sign but feel like you want a different style, there are other illumination options available to you.
BACKLIT LIGHTING
Not sold on a lightbox sign? A backlit could be a better option.
Backlit lighting is, simply put, signs that are lit up from the ‘back.’ Lights, such as LEDs, are installed behind the sign and/or the sign’s lettering (such as channel letters on the sign.)
This makes the sign and/or letters seem to have a glow around them. Backlit signs are an attractive option and are aesthetically pleasing. While they can be bold, but are typically not as bright as a lightbox sign.
DIGITAL SIGNS
Digital signs light up and are easy to see at night.
Digital signs are made with digital screens, and therefore light up by design.
Digital signs may allow for further lighting customization due to the nature of the sign - depending on the type of digital sign you choose, you may be able to adjust the brightness, contrast, and other lighting elements.
FRONT LIT LIGHTING
Front lit can be used with back lit to make your sign pop!
Front lit signs have lights installed right on the front part of the sign. For instance, a sign made with channel letters can have an illuminated face. This allows the letters themselves to light up.
Front lit signs can be combined with backlit lighting to create an ultra-bright sign. Or, you can choose just front lighting to help emphasize your sign’s letters!
No Illumination
Of course, you don’t necessarily need to have an illuminated sign to showcase your brand. There are plenty of other options that are still appealling and will drive potential customers to your business.
Again, consult with an experienced sign company to discuss your choices.
3. Do You Need an Illuminated Sign For Your Business?
There are many reasons why you may want an illuminated sign.
There are many reasons why you may want to choose an illuminated sign for your business. A lightbox sign is one style of illuminated sign. A storefront sign, a pylon or monument sign, and even interior signage can be designed as a lightbox!
No matter what type of illuminated sign you choose, here are some reasons why an illuminated sign may be right for your business:
Easy to see at night: Illuminated signs make it easy to see who you are and what your business is, even when the sun sets. In some poorly lit areas, it may be impossible to read your sign without illumination when it’s dark outside.
Aesthetic appeal: Signs that light up are not only practical, but they can be attractive as well! Some businesses choose certain types of illumination based on aesthetic appeal and style preferences.
Helps customers find you: Depending on the location of your business, it can be difficult for customers to find you. For example, if you are tucked behind another building, beyond a corner, or within a very busy plaza. An illuminated sign can help your customers find you, day or night!
As you can see, an illuminated sign has many benefits for your business, whether you need a storefront, pylon or interior one.
4. Should I skip illumination?
Some sign styles, such as banner signs, cannot be illuminated.
There may be some instances where an illuminated sign is not necessary if you don’t like the look of it.
In almost all cases, adding illumination will only add to your sign - but if you are on a tight budget and don’t need a sign that lights up, it may be fine to skip it!
So, you may want to skip illuminating your sign if…
Your business is inside: If, for example, your business is inside a mall or another building, illumination may look great but isn’t necessary
Your business only operates during the day: Illuminated signs can help customers see your business at any hour, but if your business only operates during daylight, illumination may not be a priority
There are other signs that point to your business: If, for example, your business is in a plaza that has a large pylon sign that lists your business, you may not need a sign that stands out as much
You want a style that cannot be illuminated: Almost all signs can be illuminated, but there are some exceptions. For example, banner signs and construction hoardings are not illuminated.
If you aren’t sure whether or not to choose a lightbox sign or another type of illuminated signage for your business, it’s best to chat with signage experts to see what would be best for you and your unique needs.
5. How much does a lightbox sign cost?
Any illuminated sign will need a quote from a professional signage company.
In general, for any type of high-quality business sign, you can expect to pay around $2,000 - $3,000.
Since business signs are so highly customized to your company’s unique needs, it is difficult to say exactly how much a sign will cost.
However, these factors will influence the final price tag:
Size of the sign
Type of illumination
Lettering used
Materials used (e.g. type of metal, vinyl, etc.)
Quality of materials used
Installation fees
To get the most accurate estimate on your lightbox sign’s final cost, you will have to get a quote from a professional signage company.
Trust AGC Signs To Get You The Best Sign For Your Business!
Are you ready to get the best lightbox sign for your business? Not sure which sign is right for you? No matter what you need, you can rely on the experts at ACG Signs to help you plan, design, and professionally install your completely custom-built sign.
At AGC Signs, we have over 10 years of experience serving the Durham Region and surrounding areas, including Pickering, Ajax, Bowmanville, Scarborough, and the GTA.
We offer a wide range of signage services, including designing custom signs for your store, office or business, along with installation, and maintenance.
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING
"I worked with AGC Signs on a signage project and was really happy with how it turned out. Rhonda took the time to explain to me how everything works and we went back and forth a few times looking at proofs. She was super helpful and I'm really happy with the quality of work I received. Would definitely recommend!"
- Lisa Ng
