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.
Speaking of professional installers, look for one with the right credentials. ICE Signs’s installation personnel, for example, have IPAF, CSCS and CITB – SSSCS certifications.
Best Suited for Specific Applications
Halo illuminated signs work best on flat surfaces and direct-mounted applications, offering optimal illumination and visibility. They shine brightest in areas with low ambient lighting and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. With the ability to customise the letters’ cut and colour, these signs can reflect the business’s branding and style uniquely.
Long-lasting and Durable
Made from high-quality materials and built to withstand the elements, halo illuminated signs are designed to last. Most feature LED lights with an average lifespan of 50,000 hours or up to 17 years if lit for 8 hours daily. Regular maintenance of the LEDs and wiring through the removable back can further extend the sign’s lifespan, ensuring it remains a glowing testament to your business for years to come.
Key Points:
- Halo illuminated signs create a unique “halo” glow around letters.
- They’re cost-effective, energy-efficient LED lights, perfect for businesses operating after dark.
- Proper installation is critical, typically requiring professional assistance.
- These signs work best on flat surfaces, direct-mounted applications, and in low ambient lighting.
- Customisable for both indoor and outdoor use, they offer design flexibility.
- They are durable and long-lasting, with LED lights that can last up to 17 years if lit for 8 hours daily.
For more information, visit
https://www.icesigns.co.uk/products/fascia-signs/
https://www.icesigns.co.uk/products/halo-illuminated-signs
https://www.icesigns.co.uk/products/halo-illuminated-signs/
https://www.icesigns.co.uk/products/3d-signs/
