Two technologies, two looks
Channel letters and push-through signs are the two most popular illuminated options for commercial signage in Quebec. Both produce a professional lit effect, but they are built differently, they read differently, and they are priced differently.
What is a channel letter sign?
A channel letter is a three-dimensional letter, fabricated individually from folded aluminium. Each letter holds LEDs inside and lights either through its face (front lit) or backwards onto the wall (reverse lit, or halo lit).
- Materials: aluminium, acrylic or polycarbonate
- Look: high end, with distinct letters and real depth
- Life: 10 to 15 years with minimal maintenance
- Price: higher (superior build)
Quality restaurants, upscale boutiques, salons, spas, professional firms. Any business that wants to project a premium image.
What is a push-through sign?
A push-through is a light box: an aluminium cabinet lit from inside, with an acrylic front panel that is cut or printed. The light "pushes through" the panel — hence the name.
- Materials: aluminium, acrylic, polycarbonate
- Look: clean, even, highly visible at night
- Life: 8 to 12 years
- Price: generally more affordable than channel letters
Franchises, service businesses, pharmacies, clinics, convenience stores, and any business with a complex logo that is hard to reproduce as individual letters.
Head to head
| Criterion | Channel | Push-through |
|---|---|---|
| Lit effect | Distinct letters, real depth | Even panel |
| Premium look | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Daytime visibility | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Night visibility | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Complex logos | Difficult | Easy |
| Average price (3 m) | $4,000 – $12,000 | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Life | 12–15 years | 8–12 years |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
Advanced variants
Reverse lit channel (halo lit)
The LEDs face backwards, creating a halo of light around each letter. The effect is very elegant, especially on a dark façade. Ideal for businesses that want to stand out after dark.
Face and halo lit channel
A combination: the letter lights its own face and throws a halo behind it. Maximum effect, higher price.
Push-through with CNC cutting
The front panel is cut precisely so light passes exactly where you want it. A very refined result, ideal for logos with fine detail.
What we recommend, by type of business
| Type of business | Recommendation | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Fine dining restaurant | Reverse lit channel | Premium image, elegant halo effect |
| Fast food / franchise | Push-through | Standardized logo, controlled cost |
| Clothing boutique | Front lit channel | Distinct letters, modern look |
| Clinic / office | Push-through | Clean, professional, legible |
| Bar / lounge | Reverse lit channel or LED neon | Night-time atmosphere |
| Retail | Channel or push-through | Depends on the visual identity |
The right choice depends on your logo, your façade and your budget. At AGS we review your situation free of charge and propose the option that actually fits. Our founder, with 30 years in the trade, has built both types for hundreds of Montreal businesses.