An illuminated sign, or as experts call it, an illuminated advertising system, is an advertising medium that either emits light itself, is backlit, illuminated from the outside, or even "glows" after being exposed to light, such as through fluorescence.
For the commercial sector, illuminated advertising systems provide the opportunity to maintain advertising visibility both during the day and at night, when natural lighting conditions would simply be insufficient.
This article will help you if you:
- want to advertise at night
- want to learn about legal regulations regarding illuminated advertising
- aren’t yet sure which type of illuminated advertising system is best for you
Advantages of purchasing illuminated signage from Fotoreklame:
We offer many advantages you’ll rarely find bundled from a single provider. These include:
- Printing of advertising media
- e.g. in backlit systems
- Professional installation of the system
- On request, self-made neon sign
- Support in applying for permits for advertising installations
- On request, repair, renewal and modification of an existing system
How bright is illuminated signage allowed to be?
This is what ARAG states: If the light from your advertising system illuminates one of the particularly protected areas of a private residence, such as the bedroom, living room, balcony, or terrace, it must be avoided in accordance with the state of the art.
The light from a light sign or any other form of illuminated signage not only consumes electricity but can also be classified as a public nuisance.
It’s also insufficient to assume others could simply close their blinds. As the operator of illuminated advertising, you’re obligated to prevent Environmental disturbances.
In plain terms: An illuminated sign should only be bright enough to exclude harmful environmental effects and noise disturbances. You can also read about this in the Federal Immission Control Act under section 2.1.2.1.
Types of illuminated signages
Illuminated signage can be realized in many different forms. First, it is important to differentiate between the various types of illuminated signage.
Light boxes
As the name suggests, a lightbox is a box system available in many different sizes.
The actual advertising medium is backlit here.
The advertising medium is easy to replace, so that both the box and the advertising medium can be reused if necessary.
Illuminated letters
Individually crafted, single illuminated letters in your desired design. Individual elements can be replaced in case of a defect, redesign, or re-equipping of existing systems.
Illuminated columns
The column shape has the advantage of being able to be placed in the middle of the room, without being restricted to a position on the wall.
Digital illuminated advertising
Electronic billboards, or digital signage, are especially suitable for storefronts as they allow the latest product to be displayed at the push of a button.
Floodlights & light frames
They are the most space-saving option in the field of illuminated signage.
Floodlights illuminate existing installations. Upgrading the advertising medium is unnecessary here.
Light frames are ultra-flat snap frames. The advertising medium can be quickly exchanged here.
Photoluminescent materials
Can be used in the form of a phosphorescent vinyl.
You can also mix a two-component epoxy resin, which is applied directly and glows in the dark.
Installation of illuminated signage
Before you can even think about installation, you usually need to obtain a building permit for your illuminated signage.
All advertising installations generally require a building permit. As part of our service, we’ll assist you in applying for the permit and handle this bureaucratic aspect of your project.
Once all official permits are obtained, we’re happy to handle the installation for you as part of our service. This includes secure transportation, professional mounting, and of course connecting the system.
FAQ
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions that our customers have asked us in the past about illuminated signs.
How much does an illuminated signage cost?
A custom-made illuminated sign always comes with a custom price. The factors that can influence the price of your illuminated advertising installation are as follows:
- Size of the box/advertising medium.
- Print: Yes/No?
- Customized housing?
- Type of light source used.
- Installtation: Yes/No?
Important regarding installation: Of course, you can take care of this yourself. However, our staff is highly skilled due to years of experience, and based on our experience, it is overall more cost-effective and time-saving if we handle the installation for you.
If you would like to request a quote, give us a call or send us an email.
What happens to my illuminated advertising if I don’t have a building permit?
It must be removed. The costs and logistical effort then fall on you. In some cases, you may even face a fine.
We suggest you take advantage of our service and avoid these unnecessary additional costs! We also assist you with the bureaucratic side of your project.
Can I leave my illuminate signage running on all night?
If your illuminated signage does not cause any enviromental disturbance, it can run all night long. This is because a disturbance can not only be caused by noise, but also by light. This also has several other consequences. These include:
- Light pollution
- high energy costs
- By turning off the light, CO2 is also saved
- Insect deaths
- Since they fly around the light sources all night long, they die of exhaustion
- other negative impacts on the ecosystem
- Many animals are irritated by artificial light and can no longer fulfill their role in nature
During the energy crisis, a ban on illuminated signage was even imposed from 10 PM to 4 PM the following day.
Am I allowed to use illuminated signage both indoors and outdoors?
Provided all legal permits are obtained and your illuminated advertising doesn’t cause environmental disturbances (e.g., light pollution), you may use it both indoors and outdoors.
