Call us at (805) 641-1387


Call us today for an Estimate at (805) 641-1387 or

Request a Quote Online

Call us at (805) 641-1387


Channel Letters 101 – What You Need to Know to Select Yours

Channel Letter signs are an impactful type of sign that has been around since the 1920s. Since then, they’ve functioned as an excellent way to advertise your business and generate more revenue. Additionally, you can see them from a long distance, which is perfect for businesses with large signage. If you are looking to increase the visibility of your business, Channel Letters might be the best option for you! Therefore, if you are shopping for Channel Letter Signage, this article will give you some insight into how to choose them for your building facade.

What are Channel Letters?

Exterior Channel Letter Sign – Red Brick Pizza

Channel letters are a type of commercial signage that adorns the exterior of many businesses. They consist of a graphic element with an individual structure and bold letters that are mounted in a way that gives them a striking, three-dimensional effect. Also, there are four main pieces to channel letters: The face, the return, the backing and the lighting element(s) if the sign has illumination.

They can be made from aluminum, steel or acrylic which typically means they’re rugged and affordable. Channel letters can either be illuminated or non-illuminated, but the bold lettering is striking either way. They can be illuminated by lights either internally (LEDs) or externally with LED lighting fixtures mounted to the back of the letters. Dave Signs also illuminates Channel Letters this way with neon lighting.

Where You Typically See Channel Letter Signs

Ganas Channel Letter Pole Sign

Channel Letter signs for GANAS Auto in Oxnard, CA.Channel letters are typically installed on the front of a building, or high up on buildings that don’t have convenient space for them. For example, pole-mounted channel letter signs stand tall in retail locations where there is not much room for installation.

We created the two Channel Letter Signs for GANAS Auto above. Their storefront sign can attract people passing nearby, and the pole sign can attract motorists from far away.

Other places you can commonly see Channel Letters are on Monument Signs… 

Star of CA Channel Letters in Ventura, CA.
Star of CA Illuminated Monument Sign with Channel Letters in Ventura, CA. at dusk.

and on Indoor Signs.

Honey Cup Illuminated Indoor Channel Letter Sign
Honey Cup illuminated Indoor Channel Letter Sign.

Why Channel Letters?

Building awareness for your brand is important for your business’s success. Likewise, 59% of consumers say that they would rather buy new products from brands that are familiar to them.

In addition, Channel Letters are a popular choice among many grocery stores, retailers and restaurants wanting to enhance their brand recognition. You can see Channel Letter Signs used by chains and national brands since they are often a very effective part of promoting brand awareness.

The Four Basic Types of Channel Letters

The main difference between channel letters is the type of illumination they use. Of course, you are free to choose letters with or without lighting, as well as which kind of lighting element you want. There are four basic types of channel letters you need to familiarize yourself with as a CEO, solopreneur or decision-maker: Front-lit, Halo-lit, Front/Back-lit and Open Face.

Let’s look closely at the four basic types of channel letters:

1. Front-Lit: This type is the most common. LED bulbs or neon lights light the face of each channel letter. Because of the materials used, this option is extremely customizable.

Yolanda's Front-Lit Channel Letter Signage
Yolanda’s Front-Lit Channel Letter Signage.

2. Halo-Lit: For sign projects that require a unique and distinguished look or brand image, you can’t beat Halo-Lit. Illumination for halo-lit channel letters comes from behind the letter. However, they do not have a face and cast halos of light around each letter.

Halo-Lit Channel Letter Sign
3. Front/Back-Lit: This type of signage combines front-lit letter channel letter with halo-lit. The result looks pretty fancy, too. For instance, if you are considering a sign with a red illuminated face and white halo effect, this option really pops.

Front Lit Back Lit
4. Open Face: The back and sides of the pen-lit channel letters are aluminum. Neon lights versus LEDs typically illuminate these signs, too. Additionally, the sign face either has no sign face or is clear so that the exposed neon light inside can shine through.

Finneys - Projecting blade sign -open face neon lit channel letter
Finneys projecting Blade Sign with open face neon-lit channel lettering.

Mounting Options for Channel Letter Signs

When purchasing a channel letter signage, you decide the type of mount you need. Channel letters have three main mounting options: the raceway mount, flush mount and backer mount.

    • Raceway Mount: Many property managers often request that channel letters be mounted atop a raceway. Raceways are containers that neatly and safely holds the electrical components (wires, power supply, etc.) for the individual letters. A raceway also alleviates the # of holes drilled, too. We typically paint raceways so they match the hue of the sign band or storefront. This technique also ensures that it blends well with brand guidelines and the surrounding architecture.
    • Direct Mount: This mount is the most common. And it gets its name because the letters mount directly to the building’s face. Housing for the power source and electrical wiring is behind the bulkhead wall with this option. For Back-Lit letters, separation from the surface comes from standoff spacers.
    • Backer Mount: This mount is more common for illuminated channel letters. This option sees the channel letters attached through a pre-made opening in the building’s frontage or mounted atop the backer board. The electrical hardware and power supply are contained within the backer cabinet or situated behind the facade or bulkhead wall.

AES Channel Letter Sign

Next Steps for Getting Your Channel Letter Signage

There you go! Now you know the basics of channel letter signage. The next step we recommend is consulting with a custom sign professional like Dave’s Signs. We have experts on staff who can create commercial signage for your business that will help you stand out from the rest of the clutter. With 20+ years of being the top choice for the design, fabrication, and installation of distinctive signs and graphics, you can trust our suggestions!

Why Choose Dave’s Signs for Your Channel Letter Signs? 

Dave Signs services clients here in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles Counties; and Nationwide. We know the local zoning ordinances that regulate the size, illumination and projection of Channel Letter Signs. Also, we have extensive experience meeting landlord’s and property management requirements for signage. 

If you would like to know more about our Channel Letter Signs or other high-quality products and services we offer, please get in touch with us at (805) 641-1387. Alternatively, you can fill out our online form for a quick quote.

What Goes into a Great Movie Theatre Sign?

The theatre industry is very competitive, and you need more than popcorn and blockbuster movies to draw in the movie crowds.  Eye-catching theatre signs are one way to stand apart, as they help add to the movie-going experience. From gorgeously designed marquees to cabinet signs, here is what goes into a great movie theatre sign.

A Great Move Theatre Sign Makes an Entrance 

Movie theatre entrance signs, or marquees as they are sometimes known, are mounted above the entrance to the theatre. The best ones immediately draw attention and can even be awe-inspiring. The bold, illuminated sign that adorns the entrance marquee to Regency Theatres is a good example of this.

Movie Theatre Signs - Regency Theaters

Theatre entrance signs can also feature a design or logo. The vintage Mayfair Theatre marquee sign pictured below shows this.

Mayfair vintage theatre sign
Mayfair Theatre vintage neon sign restoration by Dave’s Signs.

They Showcase History 

Garry Marshall theatre sign
Garry Marshall theatre sign in Burbank, CA.

Theatre designs often commemorate movie and TV history and the creative minds that bring them to us.  The famous Garry Marshall Theatre signage we created showcases a big piece of California film-making history, while also paying homage to Happy Days creator and American director Garry Marshall.

As you can see, the entrance signs of Garry Marshall Theatre feature the movie or play being shown and the celebrities appearing at that venue. The marquee’s distinctive neon design and its LED-illuminated poster cabinet panels in front beckon people to come and see what it’s all about.

They Stand Out

The Granada Theatre in Santa Barbara is part of the Golden Age of Hollywood. It’s also been a part of Santa Barbara’s Historic Theatre District for almost a century. Everything about the theatre is extraordinary, so not just any sign will do. Above all, it must stand out.

Theater Signs
Signage adorning the beautifully restored Granada Theatre in Santa Barbara.

The illuminated movie marquee sign we restored for them has a classic design that blends in nicely with the facade. The sign works to increase their visibility. Moviegoers can see the movie name and listings 24/7.

We Know What Goes into Making a Great Movie Theatre Sign

As you can see, the excitement of going to the movies isn’t only about seeing the stars on the silver screen. In 2020, there were nearly 2,000 movie signs in California.

In light of that, why not let Dave Signs make the next custom sign that helps set you apart from the crowd? To find out more about how we can create your next movie sign, contact us at (805) 641-1387. Also, you can fill out our online form to get a quote.

 

 

Neon Restaurant Signs

The restaurant space is crowded and competitive and owners need to take steps to establish a strong brand presence to ensure their restaurant stands apart from other businesses. At Dave’s Signs, we recommend you use neon restaurant signs. They are highly visible and impactful, which is exactly what restaurant owners need.neon signs

Benefits Of Neon Restaurant Signs

Neon signs have been popular for several decades and with good reason. Here are some of the biggest benefits of neon signs:

Attract Attention – These signs are bright and immediately grab attention, regardless of the surrounding lighting conditions.

Energy-Efficient – Neon signs are actually energy-efficient forms of light. Typically, neon is 50% more efficient than fluorescent bulbs. Incandescent bulbs can consume as much as four times more power than neon. As for LED lights, a neon light produces more power per square foot than LED, so when adjusted for brightness, a neon light consumes more power than LED. The differences are not as much.

neon signs

Customizable – We can create neon restaurant signs for almost every kind of branding and design. You can add a company logo, its name, slogan, or any other such information on it.

Visible Night and Day – Neon lights are visible in all kinds of lighting conditions, which is why they’re so useful. Most restaurants want to attract the evening crowds and these signs are the best way to do it.

neon signs

These are some of the biggest advantages of neon restaurant signs. You can use these features outdoors and indoors without any problem. For example, some establishments place a sign behind the bar. Some install a large sign on the roof of their establishment so it is visible from a distance.

neon signs

If you are uncertain about the placement, we can help. Our team will consider your requirements and recommend the right placement and style for your restaurant or cafe.  For more information about neon restaurant signs and other high-quality signage products, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Dave’s Signs. You can contact us or call us at (805) 641-1387.

Commercial Neon Sign Repair & Restoration Near Me in Southern California and the Central Coast

Has your commercial neon sign seen better days? Are you Googling “neon sign repair near me” or “neon sign restoration?” If so, look no further than Dave’s Signs. We are a commercial sign company well known for our custom neon sign shop in-house for local businesses in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles Counties. We take the frustration out of all the searches and give our customers what they are looking for.

Sorry, NO BEER SIGNS – We ONLY Service & Restore COMMERCIAL Neon Signs.


Please Note: NEON signs are too fragile to ship, so we ONLY service NEON signs in Southern California and the Central Coast.

 

Neon Sign Repair Ventura

The Ventura Pole Neon Sign is an iconic landmark you can see from the 101 freeway.

The Nostalgic Appeal of Neon Signs

These business signs are incredibly eye-catching and great ways to advertise your brand and attract customers. Neon signs are also used in indoor areas to create a dramatic effect, and many restaurants, clubs, pubs, and similar businesses have these signs installed on their premises.

The Lido Apartments neon sign prior to restoration was weathered and not lighting up properly.

Neon Lighting Repair Services

However, a broken neon sign can be an eyesore, so getting it repaired should be a top priority. Not only will it improve the look of your business, but it will help attract more customers, just like a new sign.

Types of Neon Signage Repair

We’re your electronic sign repair one-stop shop, helping you with all types of signage repair.

The most common problems with neon signage include:

    • The neon light is flickering or dim
    • There are cracks in the neon tubing
    • The sign has dark spots
    • The colors are fading

Our team has two common concerns when we repair neon signs in outdoor settings: neon tube repairs and electrode replacements. In the case of electrode replacement, our technicians will first ensure that there aren’t any breaks or cracks and that there is no burnout.

Sea Fresh neon restaurant sign in Oxnard, CA. Creative, fun, and inviting.

We Recommend New Electrical Components

We always recommend to our customers that it’s best to use new electrical components rather than any older ones in the replacement. This helps ensure the signs continue to function well for a longer duration.

Neon Tubing has been a popular solution for both creating and accenting signs for over 100 years.

Replacing Neon Light Tubes

If the neon tubes develop cracks, depending on what the exact problem is, the repairs can be time-consuming. In most cases, we would have to manufacture a new glass bulb, which can take some time. Regardless of the type of damage your neon signs have suffered, we are the experts who can provide high-grade services at very cost-effective prices.

Freezing temps can affect the gas inside the tube and cause a sign to flicker. Sometimes all it needs is re-pressurizing.

Cold Temperature Issues

Sometimes your outdoor neon sign will react to cold temperatures. When you see your neon sign begin to flicker as if it is having trouble staying on, sometimes this means that the gas has cooled off and turned into a liquid inside its glass tube. Flickering neon doesn’t necessarily mean a broken sign; it simply may need to be re-pressurized.

Contact Dave’s Signs and get your neon signs repaired by our expert in-house service technicians.

Neon Sign Repair Cost

The cost of neon sign repair will vary depending on the severity of the damage and the type of repairs that need to be carried out. Whether you have a small indoor sign or a large outdoor sign on top of a multi-story apartment building like the Lido Apartments neon sign restoration we did in Hollywood, contact us.

On-Site Repairs, Take Downs & Re-Installation

Sometimes we can repair the sign on-site, and sometimes we need to bring it into our shop. Once we repair your sign, we can bring it back to your location for installation.

We will make sure everything is working properly and meets city code requirements. We know how to clean neon signs too. So, if debris is littering your electric sign, we can take care of that for you. 

Local service areas include VenturaSanta Barbara, and Los Angeles Counties. However, we cover all of Southern California and the Central Coast.

We service both indoor and outdoor neon signs.

Southern California Custom Neon Sign Repair

Unfortunately, neon signs break too easily in transit, so we can’t ship them out. However, if you have a large enough job, our team members can come to your location nationwide.

Indian Motorcycles Neon Sign Repair & Restoration

The Classic Thing About Neon Signs

Shanghai Beer Garden in Ventura, CA.

Neon signs are a sentimental way to grab attention and get your brand message across. Whether you have a vintage neon sign or a modern one, they are worth repairing and restoring.

Finneys - Projecting blade sign -open face neon lit channel letter
Finneys

In fact, neon lights are still on-trend. They can be used indoors or outdoors and come in various sizes, shapes, and colors. The glowing signs will make your business stand out and show no sign of slowing down anytime soon. Timeless never goes out of style.

Inside Finney’s.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Neon Light Signs

The difference between indoor and outdoor neon signs is quite clear. Outdoor lights are exposed to the elements. They react much faster than their counterparts in a controlled environment like a business office or restaurant where there is protection against harsh weather conditions – especially during winter when temperatures can dip below freezing at night!

Neon Sign Repair & Restoration in Los Angeles

Lido Apartments Sign Restoration

Made famous by the Eagle’s “Hotel California” album. The Lido Apartments neon sign restoration in Hollywood, CA. Read how we brought the sign back to life.

“Welcome to the Hotel California…”

The Hollymont Apartments Sign Restoration

These newly renovated apartments in Los Angeles got a newly renovated sign to go with them courtesy of Dave’s Signs.

The Hollymont vintage neon in Los Angeles, CA.

 

Angel City Brewery in Los Angeles, CA.

Neon Sign Repair & Maintenance in Ventura

We not only specialize in the design, fabrication, and installation of neon signs. We have services for maintaining them as well. Our customers can be proud knowing that their signs will always look their best.

Spencer Makenzie’s World Famous Fish Tacos

Designed, built & maintain Spencer Makenzie’s World Famous Fish Tacos neon sign in Ventura, CA.

Classic Mayfair Theatre Marquee Restoration

Mayfair vintage theatre sign
Restoring the Classic Mayfair Theatre Sign in Ventura, CA. We restored or recreated everything from the electrical to neon glass tubing.

Busy Bee Cafe Sign Renovation and Maintenance

Neon restaurant signs are more popular now than ever.

Restoring the Busy Bee Cafe neon signs in Downtown Ventura, CA.

Neon Sign Repair & Restoration in Santa Barbara

Broad Street Oyster Co. in Santa Barbara, CA.
Modern Times Beer & Food in Santa Barbara, CA.

 

Pepe’s Mexican Food To Go in Goleta, CA.

Indoor Signs

A lot of businesses use indoor neon signage that produces bright colors and really makes a statement as you walk in like these.

Design Masonry in Canyon Country, CA.
Picture your sign getting repaired and what it will look like when you get it back.
Children’s Dental before installation in Oxnard, CA.

Are You Located in Southern California? Contact Dave’s Signs for Your Neon Signage Repair

There you have it–your go-to source for neon signage repair that will stop you from Googling “neon repair shops near me” or “sign repair shops near me.”

Dave’s Signs has a proven process for repairing damaged or deteriorated neon signs. We can even restore their appearance to its original condition.

If you notice that the lights from your neon sign seem dimmer than usual or if they start flickering for no reason, pick up the phone and call us at‭ (805) 641-1387‬ or contact us online. Our electric sign repair experts will be happy to take a look at your sign and let you know what we would recommend that you do.

With over 20 years of experience in the Neon Sign Repair business, we have seen it all and are confident that we can help get your sign back up and running in no time. Be sure to check out the other commercial sign repair services we offer, such as LED Sign repair and Monument Sign repair in our gallery



How to Save Money with Energy Efficient Business Signs

There are plenty of ways to save money with business signs. The trick is to find the best and the most energy efficient business sign options available. Old and out of date lighting systems can cost your company money in the long run. This is usually seen in small businesses. Check out this bright sign below.

energy efficient signs

Energy Efficient Business Signs

If you are somebody who is dealing with flickering or unreliable signs, day in and day out, you should take a look at solutions that will last for a long time. Energy efficient business signs will save you a lot on operating costs along with giving off an attractive look for your brand. Since neither the consumers nor the employees will be disturbed by feeble or flickering signs, it will be beneficial for your business. Check out this illuminated business sign below.

energy efficient signs

Business signs are used not only in storefronts but also in lobbies and conference rooms. You might even spot them in restaurants, airports, and retail outlets. Since the vast majority use bright colors and lights, it is only natural to make them as energy efficient as possible so that not only is our environment helped, but we also save money. Check out this custom lighted business sign below.

energy efficient signs

We offer a free assessment of your existing signs and our installers will let you know the best course you can take. A way you can save energy is to use ENERGY STAR certified signage that use cooler-running lighting technology.  The lights that are ENERGY STAR rated are 18% more energy efficient than those that are not energy conscious. This can save your business some money over the course of the year.

Do note that using such measures may also make you eligible to earn some benefits by the government. Using our energy efficient business signs will not only help you save on energy costs, but they are more environmentally friendly as well. Check out our gallery to see some great options to choose from.

 

 

Dave’s Signs Blog

This is a blog about signs. We highlight the different types of signs: signs we’ve created for our customers, history of sign design and today’s cutting edge sign technologies. Ask a question about signs, and you’ll likely find the answer here.

Case Studies

Spencer Makenzies Neon Sign

Here we go into detail on some of the custom signs we’ve done. Including Spencer Makenzie’s Neon Sign, Topper’s Pizza Neon Signs in the Oxnard Harbor, and The Historic Ventura Pole Sign. Check back with us. We’ll have more case studies of signs posted in the near future.

Custom Signs Near You

Saloon BBQ Custom Sign

We’ve designed, fabricated, installed and serviced signs all over southern California. Here are some highlighted areas near you including Ventura, Oxnard and Santa Barbara. Check back soon for more updates.

Call us today for an Estimate at (805) 641-1387 or

Request a Quote Online

Call us at (805) 641-1387


Neon Sign Design Computer

We Make Beautiful Neon Signs in Our On-Site Facility

Dave’s Signs has perfected the art of neon signs. We can handle all sizes of neon signage, from the small intricate signs to the eye-catching, large neon signs. Ask us for a personalized quote or contact us for any questions you may have about neon signage.

See Our Neon Sign Gallery


Dave’s Signs Makes Custom Office Signs

Whether you need a lobby sign, directional signage or ADA signs, Dave’s Signs can help you with all your office sign needs. We can use your logo and create a beautiful, distinctive sign for your office. We can also create custom building directory signs, suite signs, and directional signs to give the building a unique unified theme. Call us today to help you with all your office sign needs.

See Our Custom Signs

Custom Sign Design Grove Avenue