What a light box is
A light box — also called a cabinet sign — is a box-shaped sign with lighting inside that backlights a graphics panel. Light boxes are widely used by retail stores and as company signs because they're easy to see and read in the dark, they hold detailed full-colour logos well, and the faces can be swapped later without replacing the whole cabinet.
As a full-service company, Smart Signs Denver can design, build and install your custom light box, and we'll help you make a good decision before you buy. Based on your type of business and goals, we recommend the size, colour and location of your sign, and we use quality materials that last longer and look better in all weather conditions.
Light box options
Built for Colorado weather
Intense high-altitude sun, hail and freeze-thaw cycles are hard on signs. We build cabinets with aluminum framing, acrylic faces with trim caps and LED lighting that runs cool and uses far less power than old fluorescent tubes. Graphics are produced with outdoor-rated materials so colours stay bright longer.
Light box or channel letters?
Both are illuminated, but they suit different needs. A light box is usually the more budget-friendly choice, handles detailed multi-colour logos well, and is easy to update with a new face. Channel letters give a more dimensional look and read especially well from a distance. Many businesses combine the two — channel letters for the name with a logo light box beside them. We'll show you both on a mock-up of your storefront so you can compare.
Who uses light boxes
- Retail stores and shops in strip centres.
- Restaurants, cafés and take-out counters.
- Smoke shops, convenience stores and late-night businesses.
- Service businesses that want an affordable illuminated sign.
How a project works
Send us your logo and a photo of your building. We'll measure on site, recommend a cabinet size and lighting, and prepare a design proof. After approval we build the cabinet and face, help with the permit paperwork, and install the sign with our own bucket truck.
Frequently asked questions
Can you replace just the face of my existing light box?
Yes. If the cabinet is in good condition, a new face is a quick, affordable way to rebrand or update your sign. We measure the existing cabinet and produce a face to fit.
Can old fluorescent light boxes be converted to LED?
In most cases, yes. Swapping fluorescent tubes and ballasts for LED modules lights the face more evenly and cuts energy use and maintenance. We can assess your cabinet on a service visit.
How big should my light box be?
It depends on how far away your customers are, the size of your façade and local sign-code limits. We recommend a size based on viewing distance and your landlord's criteria.
What about power at the sign location?
We check your power supply during the site visit and let you know up front if any additional electrical work is needed before install day.
