Metal letters

Metal letters are often used in the construction and design of outdoor signage. Metals such as aluminum do not rust, and therefore makes an idea material for metal letters. Channel letters, the 3-dimensional signs used on the outside of many buildings are the most common metal letters used in signs. These letters are constructed by creating a box or can out of metal in the shape of the desired letter or logo. A translucent plastic facing makes up the front of the letters and allows for lighting effects. After construction, the addition of automotive quality paint complimentary to the overall look of the completed sign adds to both aesthetics and durability.

The box or can portion of metal letters is comprised of a base and returns (the sides of the box or can.) The metal is cut on a special router to form the base of the letter. Then aluminum is cut and bent to form the return (sides) of the metal letters. Once the base and return are welded or flanged, the resulting enclosure forms a channel in which a sign maker installs lighting elements to illuminate the plastic facing. The base of metal letters is mounted to a raceway, which is then mounted directly on the building, where the letters appear to stand out, away from the building itself.

For reverse lit channel letters, the process is almost the opposite in terms of construction. With these types of metal letters, the face is made of aluminum rather than plastic in order to create a negative space when lit. Also known as halo letters, these are the most expensive metal letters to produce, but often provide the most interesting visual effects. In heavily crowded retail areas, the contrast of halo letters compared to other businesses using standard face lit letters can be stunning. The difference immediately draws the eye, thus making the additional expense worthwhile when viewed in terms of grabbing the attention of passers-by. The durability of reverse lit metal letters is comparable to standard face lighted letters.

One of the primary reasons metal letters are favored in the construction of channel letters is the durability and rust proof qualities of the metals used. Additionally, aluminum is a flexible metal, thus easily bent into a variety of eye-catching letters and shapes. The automotive paint used to cover these metal letters offers additional protection from the elements, as well as pleasing visual effects. Business owners can expect many years of functional advertisement of their business from signs constructed from metal letters.