Why LED Neon Signs Have Acrylic Backboards
When you see an LED neon sign, there’s one piece holding it together that often goes unnoticed: the acrylic backboard. While the LED tubing creates the light, the backboard provides structure and makes the sign usable.
What is an Acrylic Backboard?
An acrylic backboard is the base that LED neon tubing is mounted onto. It’s a sheet of acrylic that keeps the design in place, makes installation simple and helps create the aesthetic that have made LED neon signs so popular across the world.
Why Acrylic?
Acrylic is used for LED neon backboards because it is strong, lightweight, and looks great. It doesn’t warp or discolour, and it allows different mounting styles, from wall mounts to free-standing displays. Acrylic is also a lot more durable and flexible than glass, which makes it suitable for homes and businesses.
The Benefits of Acrylic Backboards
Durability: Acrylic resists damage and protects the tubing.
Flexibility: It can be cut to shape, kept rectangular, or designed to follow an outline.
Lightweight: Easier to handle, ship, and install than other materials.
Design Options: Can be cut depending on use & UV printed.
Easy Installation: Pre-drilled holes or mounting hardware make setup simple.
Choosing the Right Backboard for Your Sign
Different backboard styles suit different uses. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
UV Printed Backboards: Best for intricate logos or detailed designs. Printing directly onto the acrylic allows you to add backgrounds, branding, or fine details while also reducing glare from the LEDs.
Cut-to-Shape: Perfect for a sleek, minimalist look. The acrylic follows the outline of your design, so the sign appears to “float” with less visible backing. Perfect for living walls, or walls with a pre-existing design.
Rectangular Backboards: A good choice for signs hanging in windows or mounted in places where stability is important.
Standard Cut: Our standard cut acrylic wraps around the design in a tasteful way. Chances are, most of the LED neon signs you’ve seen have featured the standard acrylic cut.