How much does illuminated signage cost?

Size alone does not determine the price

The overall width describes only part of the work. Letter count, illuminated line length, small details, separate elements and the number of connections also matter. Two logos with the same width can require very different amounts of material, fabrication and assembly. A compact but detailed design can be more demanding than a larger, simple shape.

Line widths and spacing affect whether a design can be made at the requested size. When artwork needs adaptation, compare the proposed visual and dimensions before comparing prices. A lower price for a simplified logo or a smaller sign is not an equivalent offer.

Light effect, materials and finish

Front-lit letters illuminate the face. Halo-lit letters cast light onto the mounting surface. A combined construction brings both effects together and can require additional coordination of diffusion, wiring and spacing. Specify the effect you need instead of comparing all illuminated letters as one product.

Body material, depth, colour matching and surface finish contribute to the specification. LED lightboxes also vary by shape, single- or double-sided construction and whether the whole face or only a logo is illuminated. Controls for dimming or colour changes belong in the quotation if they are part of the intended result.

Separate production from installation

Ask whether the quote includes the carrier, mounting template, fixings, power supply, controller, packing and delivery. Then establish the installation scope: wall preparation, cable routes, electrical connection, lifting equipment, access restrictions and removal of an existing sign may be separate tasks. Record who is responsible for each item.

An indoor reception wall and a high exterior façade can need different installation resources even when they carry the same logo. Provide photographs and mounting height early. The outdoor signage guide explains the site information that helps avoid comparing a supply-only price with a complete installed project.

• Confirm quantities, sizes and the approved design.
• List included power supplies, controls and mounting parts.
• Separate delivery, on-site work and any excluded services.
• Check whether tax is included and whether all offers use the same basis.

Estimate electricity with a stated example

Use input power in watts divided by 1,000, multiplied by operating hours and the electricity price per kilowatt-hour. For illustration only: a sign drawing 60 W for 8 hours a day over 365 days uses 175.2 kWh. At an assumed €0.30 per kWh, that is €52.56 a year. These are example inputs, not the consumption or electricity tariff of your project.

Use the proposed or measured input power for the complete installation. The maximum rating of its power supply is not automatically the actual load. Switching schedules, brightness settings and standby consumption can change the result. Also allow for cleaning and accessible replacement of serviceable components.

Reduce cost through a clearer specification

Ask which design or mounting decisions create the largest cost difference. A shared carrier, fewer separately connected elements or a standard finish may be worth comparing if they still suit the design. For several locations, common specifications can make repeated production easier, while site surveys still need to address local differences.

Send the artwork, longest dimension, quantity, site photos and required date together. The quote checklist helps you prepare a complete brief. Ask for alternatives with the same visible goal and a written explanation of what changes in each option.