Backlit Decals

A backlit sign is typically one that is placed in front of a light source. The sign itself will be semi-translucent to allow the light to shine through and illuminate whatever may be printed on the sign.

The most common setup is a light box that consists of a light source within a structure that in some way accommodates a rigid piece of material to be placed or slid into it. You often see these roadside advertising small businesses. The sign itself can either be printed onto a milky white rigid material or a vinyl overlay that is applied to the light box or setup.

Our backlit sign uses the vinyl overlay or decal approach. This means that your sign will be printed onto a piece of adhesive vinyl and can be applied to a translucent rigid material for a light box, window or other surface that has a light source behind it. The material itself is called FLEXcon LITEcal and is a durable material that provides light diffusion and ultimately gorgeous signs.

All of the FAQ on this page will deal with the backlit film we offer and not the alternative solution of printing on a translucent rigid sign or a similar signage solution.

The backlit decal is 3.5 mil (.0035 inches) thick, like a few sheets of printer paper stacked together.

There are several different shapes you can choose from for your backlit decal including Square/Rectangle, Rounded Corners (¼” or 1” radius), and Circle/Oval. You can also choose Custom or Custom with Border.

The Custom shape option allows you to either upload a specific shape to our design tool or have us personalize a shape based on your design. Meanwhile, Custom with Border shape, also known as Halo Cut, adds a thin border around the edge of your design.

Due to the size allowed by our industrial printers, your backlit decal can’t be smaller than 8” x 8” and larger than 60” x 400”.

All our signage products are printed in full color so it doesn’t matter how detailed or how many colors your design might have. The factors that influence cost are quantity, size of your sign, and any applicable taxes and shipping fees.

Although the default color of the adhesive vinyl is white, we can print any color you can imagine. For instance, if you prefer an all-black design, you just need to make your design with a black background.

Due to the material and its intended application, making a double-sided decal is not possible. The material is designed to have a light behind it and can only be seen from one direction. If your light box has two sides, you’ll need to order two backlit decals.

The typical lifespan of our custom backlit decals is three years or more depending on installation, maintenance, and usage. Decals that are placed outdoors and are continually exposed to the elements may have a shorter lifespan.

We print all our signs with UV ink to ensure that they stay vibrant regardless of where they are placed. Any sign will begin to wear out at some point but we’re confident that you’ll be pleasantly surprised with how long your sign will look good as new.

The light source shouldn’t hurt nor damage your sign in any way. While it’s common sense not to normally put a sign so close to a light source due to the heat your backlit sign is designed for just this use. The only way the actual light source may impact your sign is the visual impact it conveys. Notwithstanding, your design will in large part drive this visual impact and not the light itself.

Backlit film and backlit overlays are often used interchangeably but take note that backlit overlays can sometimes be non-adhesive.

Our backlit decals are easy to peel off and will not leave any residue on the surface. There’s no need to use a sharp object to lift any corners.

Our backlit decals are designed for indoor and outdoor use. However, the material will not stick to porous and rough surfaces.

Many businesses use backlit decals to advertise to passing traffic. Another very common use is as storefront signage to display store hours or to promote sales and promos.

Inside establishments and in darker locations such as subways and movie theaters, backlit decals are used as wayfinding signage.

Yes. However, constant exposure to water may impact the lifespan of your decal.

The backlit decal is semi-translucent so the design can easily be seen against a light source. Note that if you plan to cover your entire storefront, the decal can block the view when it’s dark or when the lights are off.

Unlike our other decals, backlit decals can't be reverse-printed because the design can only be printed in front of the adhesive.

No. Removing the actual backlit film and trying to reposition it on the same light box or a different one altogether will not work. The backlit film is not intended to be reusable.

Of course if the film is applied to a rigid piece and you are moving both of them without removing the decal from the rigid material then it is possible. You simply will need to verify that the new light box or location will be compatible with the existing specifications of your rigid piece of material.

Installation of your backlit decal is easy. After ensuring that the surface where it will be applied has been cleaned and allowed to air dry, remove the thin backing protecting the adhesive side of the backlit sign.

Then, using a spray bottle with water mixed with a few drops of baby soap, liberally spray both the adhesive side of the decal and the surface you plan to apply it to. Thoroughly wetting your decal with water is key to a clean and smooth installation.

Carefully use a squeegee to squeeze out excess water and any air from behind the decal. Prior to using the squeegee, you should be able to peel it back up for any necessary repositioning.

For larger decals, it’s best to ask for help so that you can install it properly. One person can focus on applying the sign and removing air bubbles, while the second person holds the sign to ensure that it doesn’t stick to the surface before it should.

Prior to installation, your backlit decal can be either rolled or stored flat in a cool, dry location. If rolled during storage, nothing heavy should be placed on top of the decal to avoid creasing.

Wipe your backlit decal regularly with a damp, non-abrasive cloth to remove built-up dirt and grime.

Our backlit decals are generally easy to peel off. For decals that have been around for a while, you may need to apply heat using a blow dryer to soften the adhesive. Wipe off any residue with a damp rag.

Regular cleaning will help your backlit decal stay vibrant while it is in place but avoid power washers since the force can wash off the adhesive.