Lighted Signage Options in Columbus Ohio
When the sun goes down, your business sign becomes a beacon in the night. It’s the first thing potential customers see, guiding them to your door like a lighthouse on the shore. But if your sign isn’t well lit—or worse, not lit at all—you could be losing business. Whether you’re attracting last-minute customers or just keeping your brand shining 24/7, properly illuminating your sign is important. Let’s dive into why sign illumination is important and the best practices for illuminating your signs at night.
Why Sign Illumination is Important for Nighttime Visibility
Visibility
Good lighting ensures your signage is working hard for you 24/7, catching your customers’ attention and ensuring your business doesn’t fade into the shadows. Whether someone is looking for a late-night snack or simply passing by, a glowing sign can turn curious glances into visits.
Brand Recognition
Imagine driving down a dark street, looking for a store, and squinting to spot the business name. Frustrating, right? That’s exactly why sign illumination matters. A well-lit sign not only helps customers find your business after hours, but it also builds brand recognition, even when your doors are closed.
Safety
Proper lighting isn’t just about aesthetics, though—it’s also about safety. A well-lit sign can enhance the security around your building, making it more welcoming and deterring unwanted activity. So if your sign isn’t lit, you could be losing more than just visibility—you might be missing out on potential customers who don’t want to walk in a poorly lit area at night.
Different Types of Outdoor Lighting Options
Now that we’ve covered the importance of lighting, let’s go over the different options available to make your outdoor sign pop after dark. You have plenty of choices, each with its own perks and style. Here are some of the most popular options:
LED Signs
Think of LED lights as the MVP of sign lighting. They’re energy-efficient, long lasting, and come in many different colors. LEDs are great for businesses looking for a modern and sleek appearance while also keeping energy bills low. Plus, with LED lights, your signage will shine just as brightly years down the line.
Neon Signs
There’s something iconic about a neon sign. If your brand is all about personality, a neon sign might be the perfect match. They offer vibrant, nostalgic colors that can be seen from far away. However, they do require a bit more upkeep than LED signs, and energy efficiency isn’t their strongest suit.
Backlit Signs
Backlit signs, also known as halo lighting, create a soft glow that highlights your sign from behind. This lighting option is perfect for businesses aiming for a clean, contemporary look. It’s subtle but highly effective, giving your sign a polished look at nighttime.
Floodlights
If you have a larger sign or billboard, floodlights are your go-to option. These external lights can be angled to illuminate your sign, making sure every inch is visible. Floodlights are powerful but need regular maintenance to keep them working.
Each option comes with its own unique style, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your brand while considering practicality and maintenance needs.
Choosing the Right Lighting for Your Business Sign
Picking the perfect lighting for your sign isn’t just about brightening things up—it’s about finding what works best for your specific business. Think of it like choosing an outfit. You want something that looks great but also fits your style and the occasion. Here’s what you should consider:
Location & Local Guidelines
Where your business is located plays a huge role in choosing your sign lighting. If you’re in a busy area like downtown Columbus, Ohio, where the streets are already well lit, you might want to opt for a more subtle backlit sign that blends in. On the other hand, a rural setting might benefit from bolder lighting like LEDs or neon that really pop against the night sky. Always check local guidelines for brightness before installing a new sign—especially in areas with strict zoning rules.
Brand Alignment
Your signage should be an extension of your brand. If your business is modern and sleek, LED or backlit signs might be a great fit. More retro or creative businesses could lean toward neon for that added personality. Think of your lighting choice as another way to communicate your business’s vibe.
Sign Placement
Where you place your sign is just as important as how you light it. High-mounted signs might need stronger lighting like floodlights, while lower signs can often work with smaller, more focused lights. Make sure the lighting complements the placement and helps your sign stand out in all the right ways.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability in Sign Lighting
We know some businesses are constantly looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact while also cutting costs. When it comes to your sign’s lighting, you don’t have to choose between bright and eco-friendly—you can have both.
LED Lighting
We’ve already mentioned LEDs as a top choice for sign lighting, but here’s another reason they’re the go-to option: they’re incredibly energy-efficient. LED lights use a fraction of the energy that traditional bulbs do, and they last much longer. This means fewer replacements and lower energy bills—a win-win for both your wallet and the planet.
Solar-Powered Lighting
If you’re feeling extra eco-conscious, you can even explore solar-powered lighting options. Solar panels absorb sunlight during the day and power your sign at night, making it a great option for businesses that want to go green. While it might require a bit more of an upfront investment, solar lighting can pay off in the long run.
Tax Incentives
Some areas offer tax incentives or rebates for energy-efficient lighting, so be sure to look into local programs that might help offset your costs. Not only will you be helping the environment, but you’ll also be adding to your business’s reputation as a responsible, forward-thinking company.
Innovative Lighting Techniques for Eye-Catching Signs
Every business wants to stand out, especially at night. With advancements in lighting technology, there are plenty of ways to make your sign even more eye-catching and unique. Here are a few innovative options that will have people stopping in their tracks:
Dynamic LED Displays
Why settle for a static sign when you can have one that moves? LED displays allow you to change messaging, add animations, or even display promotions in real-time. It’s perfect for keeping your content fresh and relevant.
Programmable Lighting
Some commercial businesses are now using programmable lights to change the color of their signs depending on the season or event. Imagine having your sign glow green for St. Patrick’s Day or red for Valentine’s Day—get festive!
Color-Shifting Signs
Another cool trend is signs that gradually shift colors, catching people’s attention with dynamic visual effects. It’s a simple but effective way to draw eyes to your business, even from a distance.
Contact DaNite Sign in Columbus, Ohio
Let Us Handle Your Sign’s Lighting
When it comes to making sure your business sign shines bright at night, there’s a lot to consider—from choosing the right type of lighting to staying energy-efficient and compliant with local regulations. The right lighting not only helps boost visibility but also gives your business that extra wow factor, making sure you stand out. Whether you’re opting for a classic neon glow or embracing cutting-edge LED displays, illuminating your sign is one of the best investments you can make.
Contact us at DaNite Sign in Columbus, Ohio, to get an estimate on illuminated signs today.