Custom Neon Signs: A Practical Guide for Building Owners and Managers
If you’re responsible for a building—whether it’s a storefront, office, restaurant, or apartment complex—signage plays a key role in how people interact with the space. It’s more than just labeling; the right sign can make a property easier to find, more recognizable, and more aligned with a brand or business identity.
Custom neon signs have gained popularity in recent years, not just for their nostalgic appeal, but also for their versatility and visual impact. Modern versions use LED technology rather than traditional gas-filled tubes, making them more energy-efficient and easier to manage.
This article breaks down what custom neon signs are, the types available, how they’re used in commercial settings, and what to consider before installing one on your property.
What Is a Custom Neon Sign?
A custom neon sign is a made-to-order lighting display, often using shaped tubes or flexible LED strips to create illuminated words, logos, or symbols. Unlike generic signage, these are designed from scratch to fit a specific use—whether that’s promoting a business name, displaying an artistic statement, or serving as wayfinding signage.
Today’s custom neon signs typically use LED-based systems. These replicate the appearance of traditional neon but are lighter, more durable, and consume far less electricity. They’re also safer to install and maintain, making them suitable for a wider range of locations, including indoor and outdoor areas.
Why Businesses and Property Managers Choose Custom Neon Signs
Neon signs stand out, which is one of the main reasons they’re used in commercial spaces. They’re often chosen for their ability to attract attention—especially in low light conditions—and for the range of visual styles they offer.
Here are a few practical reasons to consider them:
High Visibility
Custom neon signs are bright, even in daylight, and especially at night. This makes them useful for street-facing buildings or businesses that want to draw attention after dark. Clear visibility can make it easier for visitors, customers, or delivery drivers to locate a building.
Brand Recognition
A custom sign that reflects a brand’s colors, shapes, or slogans can support visual recognition. Whether it’s a simple nameplate or a more creative design, custom neon signs help establish a consistent visual identity across different properties or locations.
Flexible Applications
Custom neon signs can be used in many contexts—mounted on exterior walls, displayed in windows, installed behind reception desks, or even suspended as artistic displays in lobbies or lounges. They’re adaptable to both commercial and residential settings.
Types of Custom Neon Signs
There are several types of neon signs available, and each serves a different purpose depending on how you want the sign to look and perform.
Static Neon Signs
These display a single color and maintain a constant light level. They’re often used for building names, suite numbers, or classic business signs. Simpler than animated signs, static custom neon signs are ideal when clarity is the priority.
RGB Color-Changing Signs
These signs cycle through colors or allow users to switch between them. Some models include remote controls for easy adjustment. This option is popular in entertainment spaces, retail storefronts, or areas that host seasonal events.
Animated Neon Signs
These include blinking, pulsing, or sequence-based light effects. They can draw attention in high-traffic areas or create a unique visual experience. While they add impact, they’re typically used in environments where dynamic visuals are appropriate.
Engraved Neon Signs
These signs include a laser-engraved design behind or around the illuminated element, adding a layer of detail. This format works well when there’s a need to include precise logos, symbols, or lettering that’s too intricate for traditional tubing.
Energy Use and Maintenance
Modern neon signs, particularly those using LEDs, are generally low in power consumption. This makes them a good fit for businesses conscious of electricity use or buildings with multiple illuminated signs.
From a maintenance perspective, LED-based neon signs last significantly longer than older neon tubes. They’re also less likely to break since they don’t contain fragile glass components or pressurized gases. Cleaning is straightforward, and replacement parts are more accessible than with traditional neon.
Signs designed for outdoor use may include weather-resistant housings or sealed components to protect against rain and temperature changes.
Considerations Before Installing a Neon Sign
If you’re thinking about installing a custom neon sign on or inside your building, there are a few things to plan for:
1. Size and Scale
The dimensions of your sign should match the visibility requirements and physical space. A sign that’s too small may go unnoticed, while one that’s too large can overwhelm the area or exceed zoning limits. Accurate measurements and placement planning help avoid issues later on.
2. Design and Readability
Fonts, colors, and layout matter—especially at night or from a distance. A busy or overly stylized sign might look appealing up close but become unreadable at street level. Think about where people will view the sign from, and how quickly they need to understand it.
3. Power Supply and Wiring
Neon signs require a reliable power source. Depending on your building’s setup, this might mean adding a dedicated line, integrating a dimmer, or installing a new outlet. It’s important to work with qualified professionals who can handle both the design and the electrical requirements.
4. Permitting and Zoning Rules
Many cities have regulations around signage—especially illuminated signs on building exteriors. Before you move forward, check local codes or consult with a signage professional who understands what’s allowed in your area.
5. Mounting Method
Neon signs can be installed in several ways: wall-mounted, suspended, or window-hung. The right option depends on your building’s architecture and the desired look. Some signs are designed to be portable or temporary, while others are permanent fixtures.
Where Custom Neon Signs Are Commonly Used
While neon signs can work in many contexts, there are a few common settings where they’re especially effective:
- Retail storefronts – to draw foot traffic and highlight store names
- Restaurants and bars – for menu highlights, slogans, or mood lighting
- Office lobbies – to display company names or motivational phrases
- Apartment buildings – for property names or directional signage
- Universities – in student centers, lounges, or campus retail areas
- Events – for weddings, launches, and exhibitions needing a visual focal point
In each of these settings, custom neon signs offer both function and style.
Planning Your Next Custom Neon Sign Project
If you’re considering a custom neon sign, it helps to work with a team that manages every step—from design through installation.
Metro Signs & Lighting has been serving Michigan since 1942, offering in-house design, fabrication, electrical work, permitting, and maintenance. Our team includes licensed electricians, project managers, and experienced fabricators who deliver reliable, code-compliant signage built to fit your space and goals.
We work with property managers, architects, universities, retailers, and national brands—helping them develop signage that supports their visual identity and stands out in busy environments.
Ready to start your project?
Contact Metro Signs & Lighting to schedule a consultation. We’ll walk you through the process and deliver a sign that reflects your brand and works for your building.
