Why the Sign Industry is Ditching Real Neon for LED Faux Neon (And You Should Too)

Why the Sign Industry is Ditching Real Neon for LED Faux Neon (And You Should Too)

Left Hand RiNo Faux Neon Hand - Denver, CO
Left Hand RiNo Faux Neon Hand – Denver, CO – made by RiNo Sign Works

Let’s take a walk down memory lane. It’s 1985. You’re cruising down a city street in your dad’s station wagon, and the night is glowing. Bright, buzzing neon signs light up diners, theaters, and bowling alleys. Neon was everywhere

Fast forward to today. The love for that nostalgic glow hasn’t faded, but the signage industry has moved forward. Enter LED Faux Neon, the cooler, safer, and more practical cousin of traditional neon. And at RiNo Sign Works, we’re proud to be one of the leading producers and experts in this modern signage solution.

A Quick History of Real Neon

Real neon signs were invented in the early 1900s and rose to popularity in the mid-20th century. Made from hand-bent glass tubes filled with neon or argon gas, these signs became iconic for their vibrant colors and retro charm. They were also highly specialized and painstaking to make.

As beautiful as they were, real neon signs came with a few major downsides.

The Problems With Real Neon

We respect the classics, but let’s be honest.

  • They’re fragile. One bump and you’re looking at broken glass and a leaking gas tube. Not exactly ideal for businesses in high-traffic areas.
  • They use high voltage. Some neon signs operate at up to 15,000 volts. Great for a mad scientist’s lab, but not your storefront.
  • They’re expensive to repair. Fixing real neon requires specialty parts and skilled technicians, which often means long wait times and high costs.
  • They’re energy hogs. Compared to LEDs, real neon signs use significantly more electricity.

In short, they’re beautiful but high-maintenance. Like that one ex you don’t bring up anymore.

Why LED Faux Neon Is the New Standard

Edgewater Public Market Neon - Edgewater, CO
Edgewater Public Market Neon – Edgewater, CO – fabricated and installed by RiNo Sign Works

Here’s why LED faux neon is quickly becoming the top choice in modern signage.

1. It’s Durable

LED faux neon is made from flexible silicone or acrylic tubing, which means it won’t shatter or crack like glass. It holds up well during transit, installation, and daily use.

2. It’s Energy Efficient

LEDs consume far less electricity than traditional neon. That’s good news for both your monthly bills and the planet.

3. It’s Safer

Faux neon signs run on low voltage, stay cool to the touch, and contain no toxic gases. It’s a safer option for indoor and outdoor use alike.

4. It’s Fully Customizable

From fonts to colors to shapes, LED faux neon can be customized to fit any brand or creative vision. Whether you want your logo glowing in pink or your slogan shining in white, we’ve got you covered.

5. It Works Indoors and Outdoors

Weatherproofing options make faux neon a solid choice for both interior installations and exterior branding, with no worries about temperature extremes or moisture.

6. It’s Cost-Effective

LED faux neon is not only more affordable to produce but also easier and less expensive to maintain. That means you get more glow for your investment.

Why It Matters for Your Brand

20210720 172112
Custom Desk with Neon made for Lumina – Denver, CO – made by RiNo Sign Works

Whether you own a boutique hotel, a fast-growing restaurant, or a creative startup, signage helps shape your first impression. Faux neon offers the same iconic glow people love, with none of the maintenance headaches. It’s bold, modern, and built to last.

Why Work With RiNo Sign Works

Pink Neon
Custom pink neon sign for private backyard pool made by RiNo Sign Works

We aren’t just offering faux neon as a trendy add-on. We specialize in it. As a leading producer and expert in LED faux neon signage, RiNo Sign Works is dedicated to delivering high-quality, custom-made signs that light up your brand and stand out in any space.

From logo signs and wall art to sculptural installations, we handle everything from concept to fabrication. We’ll even help you figure out the perfect color if you’re stuck between electric blue and soft coral.

Ready to Make the Switch

The Original Neon at Night
The Original Neon at Night

Still holding on to the idea of real neon? We admire the dedication. But if you’re ready for a smarter, safer, and more versatile alternative, faux neon is the way forward.

Let’s create something unforgettable.
Contact us today to get started on your custom LED faux neon signage.

Comments are closed.