Cabinet Signs 101: Everything You Need to Know Before Investing in One

A Lululemon logo cabinet sign mounted above the entrance to one of their stores.

If you're looking for a cost-effective and impactful way to advertise your business, then you might want to consider investing in a cabinet sign. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know, including the different types of sign cabinets, the benefits they offer, and how to choose the right one for your business.

What is a Cabinet Sign?

When people hear “cabinet sign” they often picture a rectangular sign mounted to a wall.  This is why cabinet signs are often called “box signs” or “wall signs.”  And yes, that would be a cabinet sign.  But, they don’t have to be rectangular or square shaped.  They can be circular or custom shaped with bends and curves that countour around an image or logo.  And, as you will see, they aren’t always mounted to a wall.

The reason this gets confusing is because the word “cabinet” can be used for different types of signage.  The word cabinet can describe almost any kind of fully enclosed sign.  A pole sign, for example, is a pole with a cabinet at the top.  A blade sign, or a "projecting sign", is a two-sided cabinet mounted to a wall at 90 degree angle using a bracket.

Cabinets are also used in combination with channel letters. Imagine a company's name and logo mounted to the side of a building. The company name is often spelled out using individual letters. And the logo next to it is a cabinet.

The term “cabinet sign” is used when a cabinet is all by itself. Or, when it is the main structure, or focal point, of the sign.  So, it may be mounted to a wall, it may be on a concrete slab at the entrance to a building, or it may be on something like a podium or platform.

If you’re still confused, don’t worry!  Keep reading as we continue to break down the different types of cabinet signage.

Cabinet Sign Examples

Scroll through to get some ideas and better see what's possible with a sign cabinet...

Benefits of Cabinet Signs

Cabinet signs are a popular choice for businesses that want to promote their brand and attract more customers. They offer a range of benefits that make them a cost-effective and impactful advertising tool. Here are some of the advantages of using cabinet signage:

High Visibility

These signs are designed to be highly visible, even from a distance. They are usually installed in high-traffic areas, making them an excellent way to attract the attention of potential customers. A well-designed sign can help your business stand out from the competition and increase your brand's visibility.

Customizable

Cabinet signage can be customized to fit your specific needs. You can choose the size, shape, and color, as well as the type of lighting you want to use. This flexibility allows you to create something that reflects your brand's personality and message.

Durable

Cabinet signs are made from durable materials that are designed to withstand the elements. They are typically made from aluminum or acrylic, which makes them weather-resistant and long-lasting. This durability ensures that your sign will continue to promote your business for years to come.

Price

Cabinets often use the least amount of materials and require the least amount of labor when compared to other sign types. Especially if you're going with a traditional wall mounted square or rectangle shape. Though not always the case. If your design is relatively simple, then a cabinet sign will probably be the least expensive type of commercial sign for business use cases.

Types of Cabinet Signs

There are several types of cabinet signs available, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most popular types:

Illuminated Cabinet Signs

Illuminated cabinet signs are a popular choice for businesses that want to attract attention both during the day and at night. Internally lighted sign cabinets use LED lighting to illuminate the sign's face. LED sign cabinets are of course more expensive. To save on cost, a sign cabinet could be installed where lighting already exists. This could be on the side of a building. An illuminated sign cabinet is an excellent way to increase your brand's visibility and stand out from the competition.

Non-Illuminated Cabinet Signs

Non-illuminated cabinet signs are a cost-effective option for businesses that want to promote their brand during the day. The drawback however, is not being seen by your customers at night. As mentioned, a non-illuminated cabinet sign is an excellent choice for businesses that are located in well-lit areas.

Double-Sided Cabinet Signs

Double-sided cabinet signs are an excellent option for businesses that want to promote their brand from multiple directions. These signs are designed to be visible from both sides. You will often see these placed at the entrance of a business. For example, a sign marking the entrance to a drive-thru. These type of signs are an excellent choice for businesses that are located on busy streets or that have multiple entrances.

Materials Used for Cabinet Signs

Cabinet signs are typically made from durable materials that are designed to withstand the elements. Here are some of the most common materials used for cabinet signs:

Aluminum

Aluminum is a popular choice for cabinet signs because it is lightweight and durable. It is also resistant to rust and corrosion, making it an excellent choice for outdoor signs. Aluminum is often used to make the "box" part, or sides, of the sign. However, aluminum can also be found on the front and back of some signs. An aluminum sign cabinet can be customized to fit your specific needs and can be painted to match your brand's colors.

Acrylic

Acrylic is another popular material used for cabinet signs. It is lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant, making it an excellent choice for outdoor signs. It is often what you see on the front ( or "face") of a sign. Acrylic is also commonly used for letters, or logos. Like an aluminum sign, acrylic signs can be customized and painted.

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is a durable material that is resistant to impact and weather. It is another excellent choice for outdoor signs that are exposed to harsh weather conditions. Polycarbonate is often used as an alternative for acrylic and has the same use cases as mentioned. It can be used for an entire sign face. Or, for individual letters and logos.

Designing Your Cabinet Sign

Designing your cabinet sign is an important part of the process. A well-designed custom sign can attract more customers and increase your brand's visibility. Here are some tips to help you design your cabinet sign:

Keep it Simple

Your sign should be easy to read and understand. It's important to keep your brand identity consistent. Just make sure you're using simple fonts and colors that are easy on the eyes. Avoid using too much text or complicated graphics. Especially when designing roadside signage, as this can make your sign difficult to read.

Use High-Quality Images

If you're using images on your cabinet sign, make sure they are high-quality and relevant to your business. Avoid using stock images that don't reflect your brand's personality or message.

Choose the Right Lighting

The right lighting can make a big difference in how your cabinet sign looks. If you're using an illuminated cabinet sign, choose the right type of lighting that fits your brand's personality and message. LED's come in a range of colors that can be added to get the right look.

Thinking About a Cabinet Sign for Your Business?

At Custom Business Signs, we're here to make sure you get the service you deserve. We conduct a site visit, design based on your ideas, and provide a mock up that you approve before we do any work. Reach out today to get started!

Installation

Sign installation can be complicated and dangerous. And in most cases, a licensed contractor is required. Especially when electricity is involved. It's important to hire a professional to install your sign to ensure that it is installed correctly and safely.

Mounting Options

Cabinet signs can be mounted in a few different ways. If the sign is going on the side of a building, it can be mounted flush against the wall with studs. Some signs may require a raceway. This often depends on the type of structure and the building owners preference. A sign cabinet atop a pole (a pole sign) will obviously be mounted differently. And a sign cabinet that sits on the ground will be mounted to a concrete slab, a podium, or something similar.

Choose the Right Location

The location of your cabinet sign is important. Choose a location that is visible from a distance and that is easily accessible to your target audience.

Regulations and Permits

Before installing your cabinet sign, it's important to understand the local regulations and permit requirements. In most cases, your local sign company will handle this process. But, here are some points on the topic of sign regulations.

Obtain Permits

In most cases, you will need to obtain a permit to install a cabinet sign. Contact your local government to find out what permits are required for your area.

Follow Specific Guidelines

Most local governments have specific guidelines or ordinances for all types of commercial signage. These regulations can be established at a state, city, or even a neighborhood level. For example, in an area designated as a "design district," there will be stricter requirements. You will often need to get your sign approved by a board of directors. It would be very costly to make a sign and have it get denied because it didn't meet certain requirement. That's why it's always important to make sure you research the requirements of your area before making an investment in a sign.

Hire a Professional

As we've mentioned, a sign company can guide you through the process. They can answer any questions and work on your behalf when getting permits and approvals from the right agencies.

Is a Cabinet Sign the Right Choice?

Choosing the right cabinet sign for your business is important to ensure that it effectively promotes your brand. Consider these points when making a decision:

Consider Your Budget

Your budget will play a significant role in the type of cabinet sign you choose. Determine how much you can afford to spend on your sign before making any decisions.

Determine Your Goals

What do you want your cabinet sign to achieve? Do you want to attract more customers to your business or increase your brand's visibility? Determine your goals before choosing a sign.

Consult with a Professional

Consulting with a professional can help you choose the right cabinet sign for your business. A professional can help you determine the best size, shape, and type of lighting for your sign. They will often be able to provide mock ups and digital designs to help you make a decision.

Conclusion

Cabinet signs are a cost-effective and impactful way to promote your business. They offer a range of benefits, including high visibility, customization, and durability. By understanding the different types of cabinet signs, materials used, and regulations and permits, you can choose the right sign for your business and effectively promote your brand.

If you would like to start the process of getting a custom sign made for your business, we can help. We're one of the premier sign companies in Tulsa. Contact us today to get a quote or ask us any questions you have about business signage.