Neon signs have been lighting up our streets for over a century. They have become iconic representations of the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry as well as the charm and quaintness of small businesses. However, one thing that can be easily noticed about neon signs is their cost. They are considerably expensive when compared to other forms of signage such as digital LED, vinyl prints, or metal signs. There are a few good reasons why neon signs are expensive and in this blog post, we’ll explore the main reasons behind their high price point.
Masters of the Art
The process of making a neon sign is a mastered art known by few and done professionally by even fewer. Neon may seem like a simple concept – gas placed inside a glass tube generating light – but creating a neon sign requires a lot of skill and patience. Neon glass tubes come in standard sizes that can be manipulated into many different shapes and sizes. When creating a custom sign, one must make sure that the design is not only beautiful but also practical. A neon sign is designed and made by bending glass tubes into the desired shape and filling them with gas. The glass tubing used is heated using a torch to shape it into the desired shape. It involves years of experience and practice to create a perfect neon tube sign.
The Need for Quality Components
Neon signs are made of several components. The glass tubing is just the first component. The glass tubes are bent into the desired shape and then filled with different gases that emit different colors. The electrodes that interact with the gasses are also critical to creating an effective neon sign. Making sure that all of these components work correctly requires time, skill, and a keen eye for detail.
The quality of the components used is also crucial in determining the longevity of the neon sign. Poor quality components can lead to a shorter lifespan of the sign, which will end up costing more in repairs or replacement. Higher quality components also tend to cost more, which ultimately adds to the final price of the neon sign.
Rarity of Professional Neon Makers
Neon sign makers are a rare breed, and the process of making custom neon signs requires a specific set of skills. Not everyone can make a neon sign. It takes years of training and apprenticeship to master the art. With the advent of digital signage, vinyl prints, and metal signs, the demand for neon sign makers has somewhat diminished. The rarity of professional neon sign makers directly affects the cost of neon signs. They do not come cheap because the supply of specialists is limited.
The Final Pricing
When we add up the expenses involved in creating, designing, and producing a neon sign, it becomes easy to understand why they are so pricey. Glass tubing, gas, electrodes, and other related components are never cheap. The specialists who make neon signs have spent years mastering this craft, and their know-how comes at a cost.
So, while neon signs may seem excessively expensive, there are specific reasons why this is the case. They are a reflection of quality workmanship, expertise, and the use of high-quality components. Neon signs are not just about cost. They are a piece of art and an investment. If maintained well, they can provide decades of glowing beauty and become a heritage item.
Conclusion
Neon signs are undeniably beautiful and have been a part of our cultural landscape for over a century. They are a timeless expression of artistry and craftsmanship, creating a sense of nostalgia and creating the perfect ambiance for small businesses, bars, restaurants, and other establishments. Neon signs are expensive due to the rarity of professional neon sign makers, the expertise required in making them, the cost of high-quality components, and the process involved in creating custom designs. However, if maintained properly, they can last for decades, making them a worthy investment. The unique combination of artistry, technical expertise, and history makes neon signs a treasured form of signage and an unmatched addition to any business or home decor.
FAQ
What is a good price for a neon sign?
The price of a neon sign can vary depending on several factors. The size of the sign and the level of complexity in its design are two main price determinants. Generally, a neon sign can cost anywhere from $250 to upwards of $1,000 USD depending on its size and level of complexity.
The size of a neon sign is an essential factor in its pricing. Smaller neon signs are usually less expensive than larger ones. A small neon sign, which typically has dimensions of around 12 x 12 inches, can cost between $250 and $500 USD. Meanwhile, a bigger neon sign, measuring around 24 x 24 inches or more, can cost $500 to $1,000 USD or even higher.
Aside from size, the complexity of the design also plays a significant role in the price of a neon sign. A simple design, such as a word or a phrase in one color, is usually cheaper than a more intricate design, including multiple colors, shapes, or graphics. An intricate design can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 USD or even higher.
Moreover, the type of gas used to create the sign may also influence its price. Neon signs are not only limited to a neon-colored gas. Argon, helium, and other gases can be used to create a variety of colors, each with a different price point. Sign makers also charge extra for customized designs or logos.
The price range of a neon sign can vary significantly depending on its size, complexity, and design. As a rule of thumb, the more intricate and massive the neon sign, the higher its price. Still, overall, a neon sign can be a worthwhile investment, especially for marketing or promotional purposes, as its eye-catching and unique qualities will undoubtedly increase visibility and attract attention.
How many hours do neon signs last?
Neon lighting has been a popular choice for signage for over a century due to its bright and eye-catching features. They are a form of illuminated signage that have become popular in advertising and marketing and have a unique impact on people’s perception of the brand, product or service advertised. However, one question most people ask about neon signs is, “how many hours do neon signs last?”
The life expectancy of neon signs depends on several factors such as usage time, the quality of the neon tubing, and other environmental factors. On average, traditional neon lights have a lifespan of about 10,000 hours or around two to four years, assuming they are used for around 8 hours a day. This means that you will need to plan to replace the neon tubes periodically based on how much you use the sign.
Factors like weather, temperature variations, and other external conditions can also significantly affect how long neon lights last. Harsh weather conditions such as wind and rain can shorten neon’s lifespan due to the fact that the gasses inside the tubes can quickly disperse, causing the light to stop working. Likewise, extreme temperatures, particularly high temperatures can also adversely affect the lifespan of the neon lights, eventually causing them to burn out. As such, it’s essential to protect neon signs from extreme weather conditions to extend their lifespan.
Recent advancements in lighting technology have resulted in the development of LED (Light Emitting Diode) lighting, which has become a popular alternative to traditional neon signs. LED lights use approximately 80% less energy than neon lights and are incredibly durable, with a lifespan of up to 100,000 hours. With an average usage of 8 hours a day, LED lights can last for more than a decade, which makes them an excellent investment for businesses looking for long-lasting signage.
Traditional neon lights have a life expectancy of around 10,000 hours, while LED lights can last up to 100,000 hours, depending on the quality of the material and usage. However, factors such as weather and temperature variations can also affect their lifespan, so it’s necessary to protect the lighting elements from these external factors. No matter your choice between neon and LED signage, proper maintenance is crucial to ensure that the signage lasts as long as possible, keeping your brand’s marketing and advertising efforts visible for years to come.
Is neon cheaper than LED?
The cost of lighting up signs, displays, and commercial spaces can sometimes be a significant expense for business owners. As such, it’s important to consider the cost-effectiveness of different lighting options, such as neon and LED lights. When comparing the cost of neon and LED lights, LED lights tend to be less expensive in the long run.
While traditional neon lights have a unique allure and aesthetic appeal, they are highly fragile and tricky to install. Because they are made of fragile glass tubes filled with gas and a small amount of mercury, handling and transporting them requires utmost care and skill. This can make it costlier to install neon lights than LED lights. Additionally, neon lights require a lot of energy, making them expensive to operate. Neon lights’ high voltage can also lead to problems, and they require specialized electrical systems to function correctly. Neon lights cost around 20% more to run than LED lights.
LED lights, on the other hand, are a newer technology that has many advantages over neon. LED lights are more energy-efficient, consuming roughly 80% less power than neon lights to produce the same amount of light. Additionally, LED lights are environmentally friendly since they produce considerably less heat than neon and other traditional lighting options. LED lights are also low-maintenance, requiring less upkeep than neon lights. LED lights can last up to 25 times longer than neon lights, leading to fewer replacements and even fewer maintenance costs.
Led lights are a cheaper option than neon lights. While neon lights still hold a significant place in the world of lighting design due to their unique aesthetic appeal, their high fragility, complex installation, and expensive energy costs make them less attractive from a cost standpoint. LED lights are a more cost-effective option, as they cost less to operate and produce less energy waste than neon lights. When considering the long-term cost-effectiveness and environmental impact, LED lights are the clear winner over neon lights.
How much does neon cost?
Neon is a New Zealand-based subscription video on demand (SVOD) service, which offers a range of movies, TV shows and documentaries. The cost of Neon varies depending on the plan you choose.
Neon offers two pricing plans: Basic and Standard. The Basic plan costs $12.99 per month, while the Standard plan costs $17.99 per month. Both plans offer unlimited access to Neon’s content library on up to two devices at the same time.
The Basic Plan includes access to the full array of features offered by Neon as well as their exclusive Neon Originals series, documentaries, comedy specials, and films, broadcast shows, and a range of reality TV series. Meanwhile, the Standard plan allows users to watch a range of content in Full HD.
Neon also allows users to cancel their subscription any time they want, as there is no fixed contract. And, new users can also try Neon free of charge for 14 days.
Neon’S pricing model offers a competitive and affordable subscription video on demand streaming service in New Zealand. Whether you prefer to pay monthly or try it out first, the variety of content lines up with the pricing offered in Neon’s plans.
Is a neon sign a good gift?
Certainly, a neon sign makes for a unique and memorable gift that can add style and character to any space. In addition to being a creative option for a gift, neon signs come with a variety of practical uses as well.
A custom neon sign can be designed to display almost anything, from a favorite quote or phrase to an image or logo that holds special meaning. This means that a neon sign can be a truly personalized gift that reflects the recipient’s personality and interests. As a result, it makes for an excellent birthday gift, anniversary gift, or any other special occasion where you want to make someone feel special.
Not only is a neon sign a unique gift, but it can also serve as a functional piece of decoration. Neon signs can add ambiance to a room, provide a focal point, and brighten up a dark space. They can look particularly striking in a home bar, game room, or in a home theater. They are popular options for businesses, too, as they draw the eye and help to create an inviting atmosphere.
Neon signs are also durable and long-lasting, ensuring that your gift will be enjoyed for years to come. They are built to withstand all kinds of conditions, so they can be placed indoors or outdoors without any risk of damage.
Finally, with the possibility of customization and endless design options, a neon sign can be whatever you want it to be. From classic neon tubing to more modern LED lighting options, neon signs offer a versatility and flexibility that make them an excellent choice for a gift.
A neon sign makes a unique and practical gift choice that can continue to bring joy and personality to a space for years to come. Whether it’s for a friend, family member, or business associate, a custom neon sign is sure to delight and impress.