If you're opening a new store, rebranding your business, or just need fresh signage, channel letters are probably on your radar. They're the most common storefront signs you see across Houston. From restaurants on Westheimer to retail shops in The Woodlands, channel letters are everywhere.

But the big question is: how much will this actually cost you?

The short answer: $2,000 to $20,000 depending on size, style, and complexity. Most Houston businesses end up paying between $3,500 to $6,000 for a standard storefront sign.

Let me break down exactly what affects the price so you know what to expect when you call for a quote.

What Are Channel Letters?

Channel letters are three dimensional signs where each letter is individually made and mounted. The body is usually aluminum with an acrylic face. Inside, LED lights make them glow at night.

They're called "channel" letters because each letter has a channel inside where the lighting sits. This gives them depth and makes them pop, especially after dark.

You've seen them on every Starbucks, Chipotle, and local business around town. They look professional and last for years with minimal maintenance.

Factors That Affect Channel Letter Pricing

No two signs cost the same. Here's what makes prices go up or down:

Size of the Letters

This is the biggest factor. Bigger letters need more aluminum, more acrylic, more LEDs, and more labor. A sign with 18 inch letters costs way less than one with 36 inch letters.

Most storefronts in Houston shopping centers use letters between 15 to 24 inches tall. This size is visible from the parking lot without breaking the bank.

Number of Letters

Simple math. More letters equal more money. A sign that says "NAILS" costs less than one that says "HOUSTON FAMILY DENTISTRY."

Some sign companies charge per letter. Others give you a flat rate based on total square footage. Either way, longer names cost more.

Font Complexity

Fonts with lots of curves and details take more time to fabricate. A simple sans serif font like Arial is cheaper to produce than a script font with swoops and flourishes.

Every bend in the aluminum adds labor time. Straight lines are easier and faster to make.

Logo Inclusion

Adding your logo to the sign increases the price. Logos often have multiple colors and complex shapes that need special fabrication. They can't be priced per letter like text, so expect a separate quote for any logo work.

Types of Channel Letters and Their Costs

Not all channel letters light up the same way. The type you choose affects both appearance and price.

Front Lit Channel Letters

This is the most common type. Light shines through the acrylic face so the letter itself glows. You see these on most retail stores and restaurants.

Cost: This is your baseline. Most affordable option for illuminated signs.

Back Lit (Halo Lit) Channel Letters

Light shines out the back of the letter onto the wall behind it. This creates a halo or glow effect around each letter. The face is solid aluminum so you can't see through it.

Hotels, law offices, and upscale businesses love this look. It feels more elegant and sophisticated.

Cost: About 20 to 30% more than front lit. Extra metal work and mounting standoffs add to the price.

Front and Back Lit (Dual Lit)

Best of both worlds. The face glows AND you get the halo effect behind. Very eye catching, especially at night.

Cost: The most expensive option. You're essentially paying for two lighting systems in one sign.

Non Illuminated Channel Letters

Just the dimensional letters without any lighting. Good for businesses that close before dark or want a simpler look.

Cost: Cheapest option since you skip all the electrical work.

Channel Letter Price Ranges

Here's a quick reference for what Houston businesses typically pay:

Note: These prices are for the sign itself. Installation, permits, and electrical work are usually extra.

Mounting Options and Installation Costs

How your sign gets attached to the building affects both appearance and price.

Raceway Mount

Letters attach to a long aluminum box (the raceway) that holds all the wiring. The raceway then bolts to your building. This is the most common and affordable option.

Most shopping centers in Houston require raceway mounting. It makes future maintenance easier since all the electrical is accessible.

Starting price: Around $400 minimum.

Flush Mount (Direct Mount)

Each letter attaches directly to the wall with no visible raceway. Wires run through holes drilled in the building and connect behind the facade.

This looks cleaner but costs more. It requires more drilling, more labor, and access to the space behind your wall.

Starting price: Around $800 minimum.

Backer Mount

Letters mount to a flat panel or cabinet first, then the whole thing attaches to your building. Good for heavy signs or when you want a decorative background behind the letters.

Houston Sign Permits: What You Need to Know

The City of Houston requires permits for most business signs. This includes channel letters, wall signs, and monument signs. You can't skip this step.

Permit Requirements

• Any illuminated sign needs a permit

• Wall signs higher than 16 feet above grade need permits

• Signs larger than 60 square feet require engineered drawings

• Only licensed sign contractors can install electrical signs

• Houston limits businesses to 5 signs per location

Permit Costs and Timeline

Permit fees depend on sign size and type. Review times typically run 7 to 21 days depending on complexity. Your sign company should handle all this paperwork for you.

Installing a sign without a permit can result in fines, forced removal, and delays in your business inspections. Not worth the risk.

A good Houston sign company will manage permits, city compliance, and inspections as part of the project. This is something we handle in house at Houston Sign Crafters.

How Long Does It Take to Get Channel Letters?

From first call to installed sign, expect 4 to 8 weeks. Here's the typical breakdown:

1. Design and quote: 1 to 3 days

2. Permit approval: 1 to 3 weeks

3. Fabrication: 2 to 3 weeks

4. Installation: 1 to 2 days

Rush jobs are possible but usually cost extra. If you're opening a new location, start the sign process early. Don't wait until the last week before your grand opening.

How Long Do Channel Letters Last?

A well made channel letter sign will last 7 to 10 years with basic maintenance. Many last even longer.

The LED lights inside typically run for 30,000 to 50,000 hours. If you keep them on 12 hours a day, that's about 8 to 10 years before you need new bulbs. And replacing LEDs is easy and affordable.

Houston's heat and humidity can be tough on signs. Aluminum doesn't rust, which helps. But salt air near the coast or direct sun exposure can fade colors faster. Regular cleaning and occasional touch ups keep your sign looking fresh.

Hidden Costs to Watch For

When comparing quotes, make sure you're comparing apples to apples. Some companies quote low but leave out important costs:

• Installation: Should be included but sometimes isn't

• Permit fees: Ask if this is included in the quote

• Electrical work: Running power to the sign location

• Lift rental: Tall buildings need special equipment

• Design fees: Some charge extra for mockups and revisions

Always ask for a complete project price, not just the sign price.

How to Save Money on Channel Letters

• Choose a simple font. Sans serif fonts like Arial cost less to fabricate than script fonts.

• Go with raceway mounting. It's cheaper than flush mount and most landlords prefer it anyway.

• Keep it short. If your business name is long, consider abbreviating or using initials.

• Single color face. Multiple colors add complexity and cost.

• Work with a local fabricator. Shipping costs from out of state can add up fast.

Ready to Get a Quote?

At Houston Sign Crafters, we design, fabricate, and install channel letters right here in Houston. No middlemen, no outsourcing. We handle everything from initial mockup to final installation, including all permit paperwork.

Give us a call at 832-974-2546 or fill out our online form. We'll get back to you within one business day with a detailed quote.

Check out our other services:

• Monument Signs

• Vehicle Wraps

• Wall Graphics

• Interior Signs

• Custom Banners