3D Backlit Gold Mirror Stainless Steel Led Illuminated Channel Letters

The technology is straightforward in concept but requires precision in execution. Aluminum letters with solid faces mount to walls with LED strips inside pointing backward instead of forward. Light hits the wall and bounces back around the letter edges, creating that outline effect. 

Three components must work together properly: aluminum shells (typically 0.080-0.100 inch thick), solid face material that blocks forward light, and LED strips positioned at specific angles to direct light toward the wall. 

Wall condition significantly affects results. Light-colored, smooth walls reflect light efficiently. Dark or textured walls absorb too much light. This is why many installations include backer panels - separate painted boards mounted behind letters to ensure consistent light reflection. Without good wall surfaces, the effect doesn't work properly. 

Design Factors That Affect Results 

Standoff distance - The gap between letter and wall, typically 2-4 inches. Shorter creates tighter halos, longer creates wider halos but needs more LEDs. Most use 2.5-3 inches as a practical compromise. 

Letter spacing - Backlit needs more space between letters than frontlit. Too close and halos merge, killing readability. Add 1.5-2 inches more than you'd use for frontlit. 

Face finish - Brushed metal reflects daylight better, making letters visible during the day when halos don't show. Painted/matte finishes absorb daylight and can disappear against buildings. One shopping center manager noted tenants with brushed aluminum faces got way more daytime attention. 

LED color - Warm white (2700-3200K) for welcoming/traditional. Cool white (5000-6500K) for modern/crisp. Choose based on your brand and building colors.