Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Neon Backings

A Comprehensive Guide to Mounting Neon Signs and the Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Neon Backings.

Neon signs are an excellent way to make your business or personal space stand out. They add a unique touch and give a nostalgic feel that is hard to replicate. However, it's essential to choose the right material for mounting your neon sign to ensure its durability and longevity. In this article, we'll look at the pros and cons of various materials you can use to mount your neon sign.

-Acrylic:

Acrylic is a popular choice for mounting neon signs because it's lightweight, durable, and resistant to weather and impact. It also allows for greater design flexibility and is easy to customize. Additionally, acrylic is available in various colors and textures, which makes it an ideal choice for those who want to match their neon sign with their brand's colors. Also utilizing a CNC router you can customize the cut of the acrylic to be a contour of the design which allows for an elegant a minimally visible backing.

However, acrylic can scratch and discolor over time, especially if exposed to direct sunlight. It also tends to yellow and become brittle if exposed to extreme temperatures, which can cause the neon sign to crack or break. A work around this is to mount the sign to a thicker cut of acrylic. 1/4'' is the most common for a lightweight option. However we have found great preference for 3/8'' thick acrylic pieces that don't have to large of an area as this significantly adds to the weight of the final sign.

-Wood:

Wood is a classic and elegant material that gives a natural and warm feel to any space. It's also relatively inexpensive, easy to work with, and can be stained or painted to match any design preference. Moreover, it's eco-friendly and provides excellent insulation.

However, wood is not as durable as other materials and can warp or crack over time. It's also susceptible to termites, rot, and moisture damage. Therefore, it's not the best choice for outdoor or humid environments. But really is a easy and affordable backing to cut a quick square or contour of a design to. This is the easiest material to quickly work with additionally because you can screw with wood screws directly into the material.

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-Vinyl Print Underlay

Vinyl prints are a cost-effective option for mounting neon signs as they allow you to add more detail without adding more neon which can greatly affect the overall pri. They're also easy to install, lightweight, and weather-resistant. Moreover, they offer a high level of customization, and you can print any design or color.

However, vinyl prints can also fade and peel over time, especially if exposed to direct sunlight.

-Direct to the Wall:

Direct to the wall mounting is a straightforward and affordable option for mounting neon signs. It involves attaching the neon sign directly to the wall using drywall anchors and screws or adhesive. It's a popular choice for those who want a minimalist look and don't want to use additional materials. When done correctly it can be a very clean and minimalist look for a neon sign.

However, direct to the wall mounting can damage the wall's surface, and it's challenging to remove without causing further damage. It also limits your flexibility in case you want to move the neon sign to a different location. The instillation is also very labor intensive and may take a few hours. It is advised to allow a professional in neon to do this as there are many tricks that must be learned to do this effectively and in the cleanest manner which requires good experience with neon signage.

-Aluminum Frame:

Aluminum frames are a popular choice for outdoor neon signs as they provide excellent durability and weather resistance. They also allow for easy installation and customization, and you can choose from various colors and finishes. This is the best option for outdoor signs as it provides a sturdiness that can last for decades.

However, aluminum frames can be costly compared to other mounting materials. They also require additional maintenance and may need repainting over time. Also they require special bushings and planning to ensure the electricity to metal contact is not a hazard or danger. It is recommended to have a professional handle this sort of instillation.

-Polycarbonate:

Polycarbonate is a lightweight and durable plastic material that's commonly used for outdoor signage. It provides excellent impact resistance and weather resistance, and it's available in various colors and textures. Moreover, it's easy to install and can be customized to any design preference.

However, polycarbonate can yellow and become brittle over time, especially if exposed to direct sunlight. It also tends to scratch easily, which can affect the neon sign's visibility.

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Conclusion:

Choosing the right material for mounting your neon sign is essential to ensure its longevity and visual impact. Acrylic, wood, vinyl print, direct to the wall, aluminum frame, and polycarbonate are some of the popular

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