Lightbox signs, characterised by their electronically illuminated enclosures, offer a visually striking and versatile medium for displaying information. These signs typically comprise a box-shaped structure, often referred to as a cabinet, constructed from durable materials. A thin, translucent layer, commonly fabricated from vinyl, acrylic, or plastic, serves as the front panel. This panel features the desired text, graphics, or other pertinent information and is backlit to achieve uniform illumination.
While there’s no single “typical” lightbox sign used in Australia, the choices do lean towards certain materials due to the unique climate and preferences:
Outdoor Lightboxes:
Polycarbonate: Given Australia’s diverse climate with sunny areas and potential for rain and hail, polycarbonate is a popular choice for the front panel due to its excellent weather resistance and impact strength. It can withstand harsh sunlight better than acrylic, making it ideal for outdoor applications.
Extruded aluminium: For the sides and back, extruded aluminium remains the standard for its strength, weather resistance, and ability to hold the sign structure together. It can handle the heat and potential humidity without warping or corroding.
LED strips: Consistent with global trends, energy-efficient LED strips are the preferred choice for illumination due to their longevity, low energy consumption, and minimal heat generation.
Indoor Lightboxes:
Acrylic: For indoor signs, acrylic remains a popular choice due to its affordability, good light diffusion, and shatter resistance. It’s often sufficient for controlled indoor environments.
Aluminium: Similar to outdoor signs, aluminium is a common choice for the sides and back due to its strength, durability, and lightweight nature.
Additional notes:
Customisable options: Many Australian sign manufacturers offer a wide range of lightbox customisation options, including size, shape, material combinations, and lighting configurations.
Local regulations: It’s important to check local regulations and building codes in your area before installing a lightbox sign, as there might be specific requirements regarding size, placement, and lighting intensity.
Examples of commonly used lightbox signs in Australia:
- Retail store window displays: Often use single-sided, backlit acrylic lightboxes to showcase products and promotions.
- Restaurant and cafe signage: Double-sided, illuminated blade signs are popular for outdoor visibility.
- Real estate window displays: Illuminated “A-frame” signs are common for displaying property information.
- Internal office signage: Fabric lightboxes are gaining popularity for their sleek and modern look.
By considering the specific needs of your sign, the local climate, and any regulations, you can choose the most suitable lightbox material and design for your Australian location.