Planning Resource
Channel Letters Buying Guide
Your storefront sign marks your location, supports your brand, and works every day. Use this guide before you order or talk with our team so the important decisions are easier to make.
Start with the message, size, colors, mounting, electrical needs, and timeline.
SignMonkey electrical signs include UL labels for code and inspection support.
Before You Start
If you are still comparing product types, start with our face-lit channel letters page. If you already have artwork and need a custom estimate, send it through the sign price request page.
Permits, landlord requirements, and installation access can influence the final sign. Our permit guide and installation instructions are good companion resources while you plan.
Planning Checklist
Your business name or sign message
Logo files or preferred font style
Preferred channel letter lighting type
Approximate wall space and viewing distance
Desired letter height or overall sign size
Face and side colors
Raceway or remote mounting preference
Electrical service and wall access
Required installation or shipping date
Message
Step 1
Decide what the sign should say
Keep the message short and easy to read. A storefront sign has only a few seconds to help someone recognize your business from the street or parking lot.
Step 2
Choose standard letters, a font, or a logo
If you have a logo, think about how it will translate into individual letters and shapes. Standard EZLit type styles are often the fastest and most affordable option, while custom artwork can match a brand font or logo more closely.
Channel Letter Type
Step 3
Choose the type of channel letters
The lighting style affects the look of the sign during the day and at night. Face lit letters are the classic bright storefront option, face and halo lit letters add glow behind the sign, and halo lit letters create a reverse-lit outline around each letter or shape.
Budget
Step 4
Set a practical budget
Your sign is one of the most visible advertising investments your business will make. Size, letter height, logo complexity, lighting style, mounting type, and installation requirements all affect price.
Colors
Step 5
Choose face colors
Face colors determine how the letters look during the day and how the light reads at night. Blue and green faces often benefit from a white outline so the letters stay clear and readable after dark.
Step 6
Choose side colors
The side color can blend into the building or create contrast around the face. Standard colors are usually the most cost-effective, while custom colors may add cost and production time.
Installation
Step 7
Select a mounting method
Raceway mounting can simplify installation because the letters attach to a single box with one power connection through the wall. Remote mounting creates a cleaner individual-letter look but usually requires more access behind the wall.
Step 8
Confirm electrical service
Most projects use 120 volt service, but we can also support 277 volt requirements. We provide amperage information so your installer or electrician can plan the connection.
Step 9
Check UL requirements
Many municipalities require UL Listing for electrical signs. SignMonkey electrical signs include the UL Label to support local code and inspection requirements.
Timeline
Step 10
Plan your needed date
Confirm whether you are planning around an opening date, remodel, inspection, or installation appointment. Standard type styles can move quickly, while custom lettering, logos, permitting, and freight timing should be planned earlier.
Letter Construction
Understand how the face, trim, returns, LEDs, and backs work together before choosing colors and mounting.
Raceway Mounting
Raceways can reduce wall penetrations and simplify electrical connections for many storefronts.
Easy Installation
Our EZLit Plug-n-Play system is built to make remote channel letter installation safer and more approachable.
Ready to build your sign?
A channel letter sign can be an economical way to display and reinforce your message 24/7. When you are ready, you can price standard styles online or contact our sales team to review a custom logo, special mounting condition, or deadline.
Contact a salesperson
Want us to review the details?
Send us your artwork, deadline, installation questions, or budget range and our team can help you choose the right next step.
Contact us