You come across halo-illuminated signs everywhere. They are very popular in the UK, used by big brands, especially on the British high street. But what are these halo-illuminated letters, and what benefits and features make them so popular?
Illumination Redefined
Halo illuminated signs break from traditional signage by featuring lighting elements exposed behind each letter. This distinctive design creates a captivating glow, or “halo,” around each letter, offering a silhouette effect. Despite the faces of the letters remaining unlit, the light reflecting off the wall gives the letter a solid and quite notable an outline.
The signs, often constructed with aluminium sides and polycarbonate faces, are only illuminated from the sides, which is why they are also called side-lit signs. The result is a 3D appearance and an architectural look, providing depth to the sign’s look.
Types of Channel Letter Signs
Among the myriad of channel letter signs, three prominent types exist:
- standard front-lit channel letters
- halo-lit/reverse channel letters
- front and back-lit channel letters
The standard front-lit letters feature internal illumination, lighting the face of the letter. Front and back-lit channel letters incorporate features from both the standard and halo-lit types, creating a hybrid model that offers an extra degree of visual allure.
Reaping the Halo-lit Benefits
Halo illuminated signs offer businesses several advantages. Their 3D appearance and unique halo-lit effect ensure exceptional visibility, even from a distance. This distinctive quality gives businesses a unique edge in crowded urban landscapes.
In terms of cost, halo-lit signs prove economical over time. The LED lights typically used in these signs are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan, which equates to reduced maintenance and operating costs.
Perfect for businesses operating after dark, like restaurants and retail stores, the sophisticated glow and visibility of halo-lit signage enhance their appeal to night-time customers.
Installation Guidelines
To reap these benefits, correct installation is key. Guidelines include securing the sign to a sturdy, flat surface, hiring a licensed electrical contractor for wiring, and ensuring each letter has a removable back for easy servicing. The sign should also have weep and mounting holes for drainage and ventilation, and be attached to the wall with a cup. The size, font, and colour should match the business’s brand and style, while the height and standoff distance should be determined with a professional sign installer’s advice.
