Custom Illuminated Channel Letters for Storefronts and Buildings
Channel letter signs are one of the most popular and effective ways for businesses to identify their location and brand their building.
These dimensional letters are individually fabricated and mounted to a building façade, creating a clean, professional look that stands out both day and night. Channel letters are commonly used by retail stores, restaurants, banks,
medical offices, and national brands.
At AP Design, we help businesses design and install channel letter signs that match their brand while maximizing visibility and durability.
What Are Channel Letters?
annel letters are three-dimensional letters or logos typically fabricated from aluminum and acrylic and internally illuminated with LED lighting.
Each letter is individually mounted to the building, allowing for a custom layout that matches the building architecture and brand identity. Channel letters are commonly used on:
- storefronts
- shopping centers
- restaurants
- office buildings
- schools and institutions
Types of Channel Letter Signs
Because each letter is fabricated individually, channel letters allow for a wide range of styles, sizes, and lighting options.
Front-Lit Channel Letters
The most common style of channel letters. The face of each letter is illuminated, making the sign bright and easy to read at night.
Front-lit letters are widely used for:
• retail storefronts
• restaurants
• franchise locations
• shopping centers
Halo Lit (Reverse Channel Letters)
Reverse channel letters are mounted slightly away from the wall and illuminated from behind, creating a soft halo effect around the letters.
This style is often used for a more upscale architectural look and is popular with:
• professional offices
• corporate headquarters
• modern commercial buildings
Combination Channel Letters
Some signs combine front lighting and halo lighting for a unique and highly visible design.
These signs create strong visual impact and are often used for high-profile storefronts and brand locations.
Why Businesses Choose Channel Letter Signs
Channel letters provide several advantages compared to flat panel signage:
• highly visible day and night
• fully customized to your brand
• professional architectural appearance
• energy-efficient LED illumination
• long lifespan with durable materials
Because each letter is fabricated individually, channel letters often create a more premium and dimensional appearance compared to cabinet signs.
Raceway vs Flush Mounted Channel Letters
Channel letters can be mounted in two common ways:
Raceway Mounted
Letters are installed on a narrow metal housing that contains wiring and power supplies. This method simplifies installation and minimizes penetrations into the building façade.
Flush Mounted
Each letter is mounted directly to the building surface for a clean architectural appearance. This method is often preferred when aesthetics are the top priority.
Our team can help determine which installation method works best for your building and landlord requirements.
Channel Letters vs Cabinet Signs
Both channel letters and cabinet signs are common building signage solutions.
Channel letters offer:
• a more dimensional and architectural look
• greater design flexibility
• a premium appearance
Cabinet signs may be more cost-effective in some situations, particularly for larger sign faces.
Our team can help evaluate which option best fits your building and branding goals.
Channel Letter Installation
Installing channel letters typically involves mounting the letters directly to the building or to a raceway system that houses the electrical components.
Many projects require:
• electrical connections
• proper mounting and spacing
• coordination with building owners or property managers
AP Design manages the installation process to ensure the final result is clean, secure, and professionally installed.
Common Applications
Channel letter signs are commonly used for:
• retail storefront signage
• restaurants and franchise locations
• shopping center tenants
• banks and financial institutions
• medical and professional offices
• corporate building signage
Let’s Design Your Channel Letter Sign
If you’re planning a new building sign or upgrading an existing storefront sign, channel letters may be the ideal solution.
Our team can help evaluate your building, review design options, and guide you through the process from concept to installation. 507-532-4482