Channel letters are custom-made metal or plastic three dimensional letters commonly used in exterior signage on public and commercial buildings. These letters are often internally illuminated with LED (most common) or neon lighting. The first and most common type of channel letter is the front-lit or standard channel letter. A channel letter is lit from the inside of the letter which allows the light to shine through the plastic face.
These channel letters can be installed 2 different ways, by directly installing each letter individually to the building wall or on a raceway. A raceway is a rectangular metal box that houses the electrical wiring and power supply for the individual letters themselves. The raceway is then mounted directly to the building wall. The advantage to a raceway mount is that it reduces the number of mounting holes, something that most landlords appreciate. Raceways are typically painted to match the color of the building to blend in.
A Reverse Channel Letter offers a unique and classy look often called “halo” letters. These types of letters are mounted away from the wall, which allows the lights to shine out the back of the letter and surround the shape of each individual character. This causes the letters to form a backlit or “halo” effect.
