Can neon signs be used outdoors

You have set your heart on one specific neon sign, but wondering whether you can leave neon signs outside or not. This article will provide just what you need on how indoor and outdoor LED neon signs compare, and which option is best for your needs and interests. 

1. Understanding Indoor LED Neon Signs

Indoor LED neon signs are designed specifically for use within enclosed spaces such as restaurants, bars, retail stores, and homes. They add amazing accents to your home as well as create an exciting atmosphere in your business, and provide a photo op. These illuminated signs are amazing for retail stores as their attention-grabbing display draws customers to the store, and certain product sections. Sometimes, they can be useful signs for the entrance, toilets, and exits, showing your guests the way.

Custom name neon sign

Custom name neon sign

Female and male toilet illuminated signs

Female and male toilet illuminated signs 

They offer several advantages over traditional gas neon signs, including flexibility, energy efficiency, and customization options. LED neon signs are made using flexible LED strips that can be easily bent and shaped to create various designs, logos, and letterings. This flexibility allows for endless possibilities and enables businesses to showcase their unique brand identities. They're then mounted on a clear sturdy acrylic backing that had already been painted white before in order for the colors to shine vivid and bright.

Additionally, LED neon signs are highly energy-efficient, consuming around 80% less electricity than traditional neon signs while still providing bright and vibrant lighting. The lower energy consumption of LED neon signs translates into cost savings and reduced environmental impact. Plus, they don't contain toxic gases, but LED neon strips, so they won't be dangerous to users when they're around the signs. Plus, they don't pose any fire hazards to your premises (if kept in proper care and condition).

Moreover, indoor LED neon signs can be customized to emit a range of colors, from vibrant hues to subtle pastels, allowing businesses to create the desired ambiance and attract customers effectively.

2. Exploring Outdoor LED Neon Signs

Now, let's find out whether neon signs are OK in cold weather.

Outdoor LED neon signs are designed to withstand the elements and are commonly used for outdoor events, advertising, building facades, storefronts, and outdoor events. Custom LED signs can illuminate your business logo in a very unique way, or help you highlight promotions, such as happy hour, discount or OPEN - CLOSED signs. These are very good at catching attention as well as can be used over a really long time, so you can have a 24/7 advertising while saving money on the side. 

open LED neon sign
open LED neon sign
LED custom neon sign logo hung outdoors
LED custom neon sign logo hung outdoors

These signs are constructed using hard transparent waterproof mica material that is weather-resistant, ensuring they can withstand exposure to rain, sunlight, and temperature variations. Unlike traditional neon signs, the LED strips are sealed within a silicone layer to protect them from UV radiation. This enhanced durability makes outdoor LED neon signs a long-lasting and low-maintenance signage option for outdoor applications.

Another significant advantage of outdoor LED neon signs is their high visibility. The bright and vibrant lighting ensures that the signs are easily noticeable, even from a distance and in various weather conditions. In addition, they offer 24/7 lighting of your logo, so even when it's getting dark, people are still attracted to your sign. This makes them an excellent choice for businesses looking to capture attention and attract customers in outdoor settings. 80% of our customers who made logo neon sign said that the new neon sign attracted more and more customers to their shop. Some even got compliment for the creative sign.

3. Comparing Indoor and Outdoor LED Neon Signs

Now, which one should I choose, indoor illuminated signs or outdoor illuminated signs?

When choosing between indoor and outdoor LED neon signs, several factors need to be considered. First is the installation requirements. Indoor LED neon signs are typically easier to install as they do not require additional weatherproofing measures. They can be mounted directly on walls, hung using hanging kit, or placed on shelves or tabletops.

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On the other hand, outdoor LED neon signs are relatively the same, except for the part from the dimmer to the power outlet where may require professional installation to ensure proper sealing and weather resistance. The placement of outdoor signs should also be carefully considered. We recommend you also should put it the places with conditions that are not too wet and heavy rain, under eaves if possible.

Outdoor neon signs

How our neon sign works

Maintenance is another factor to consider. Indoor LED neon signs generally require minimal maintenance, often only needing occasional cleaning to remove dust or fingerprints. Outdoor LED neon signs may require more regular maintenance due to exposure to the elements. However, with proper care and periodic inspections, outdoor LED neon signs can have a long lifespan.

Cost is also an important consideration. While the initial cost of LED neon signs may be higher compared to traditional neon signs, they offer significant long-term cost savings due to their energy efficiency and durability. Outdoor LED neon signs may have a slightly higher upfront cost due to their additional weatherproofing features. If you want to put the sign outdoors, you can upgrade the type can be put outdoor (with extra $50-$80 depends on the size of sign).

4. How to decide indoor or outdoor LED signs for you

Both indoor and outdoor LED neon signs offer unique benefits and considerations. Indoor LED neon signs provide flexibility, energy efficiency, and customization options, making them suitable for creating ambiance and enhancing interior spaces. Outdoor LED neon signs, on the other hand, offer durability, weather resistance, and high visibility, making them ideal for outdoor advertising and attracting attention.

By carefully evaluating factors such as installation requirements, maintenance needs, budget, and design preferences, individuals and businesses can choose the best LED neon sign option for their specific needs. Whether it's an indoor sign to enhance the atmosphere of a restaurant or an outdoor sign to make a bold statement on a storefront, LED neon signs offer a versatile and eye-catching signage solution for various applications. Go to Zanvis Neon to check out our most gorgeous designs.