Quick Guide: Choosing the Right Open Sign

1. LED neon open signs are best for most businesses - energy efficient, bright, and affordable (£30-150)
2. Traditional glass neon offers a vintage aesthetic but costs more (£150-500+) and requires professional installation
3. Size matters - choose 30-50cm for small shops, 50-80cm for medium storefronts, 80cm+ for large windows
4. Colour choice - red is classic and most visible, but match to your brand for consistency

Neon Open Signs: Everything You Need to Know

An open sign might seem like a simple thing, but it’s often the first interaction potential customers have with your business. A glowing “OPEN” sign in your window does more than announce your trading hours - it creates a welcoming atmosphere and draws foot traffic from the street.

Whether you run a café, retail shop, salon, or restaurant, the right open sign can significantly impact your business visibility. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything from classic neon open signs to modern LED alternatives, helping you choose the perfect sign for your storefront.

This guide is part of the neon sign library.

Why Open Signs Matter for Your Business

You might wonder whether an open sign is really necessary in the age of Google business hours and social media. The answer is a resounding yes - and here’s why.

First impressions count

An illuminated open sign immediately signals that your business is active and welcoming. Without one, potential customers might hesitate at your door, uncertain whether you’re actually trading. Studies suggest that businesses with clear signage can see foot traffic increases of 15-30%.

Visibility from a distance

A brightly lit open sign catches the eye from across the street or down the block. This is particularly important for businesses in busy high streets where competition for attention is fierce. The warm glow of neon cuts through visual clutter and guides customers to your door.

Creating atmosphere

Beyond the practical function, open signs contribute to your business’s overall aesthetic. A vintage-style neon sign can reinforce a retro theme, whilst a sleek LED sign suits modern, minimalist spaces. Your open sign is part of your brand identity.

Learn more: Glass neon signs: the art of illumination

Neon vs LED Open Signs: A Detailed Comparison

When shopping for an open sign, you’ll quickly encounter two main options: traditional glass neon and LED neon (also called flex neon). Each has distinct advantages depending on your needs.

When to choose traditional glass neon

Traditional neon signs use gas-filled glass tubes that produce a distinctive warm glow. If authenticity and a vintage aesthetic are priorities, glass neon is unmatched. The subtle flicker and warmth of real neon creates an atmosphere that LED struggles to replicate perfectly.

Glass neon is ideal for:

• Vintage-themed bars and restaurants
• High-end establishments prioritising authenticity
• Listed buildings or heritage settings
• Businesses with larger budgets for signage

When to choose LED neon

LED open signs use light-emitting diodes encased in flexible silicone tubing. They’re the modern standard for good reason - LED signs cost less to buy, less to run, and are far easier to install and maintain.

LED neon is ideal for:

• Budget-conscious businesses
• Locations needing bright, consistent illumination
• Self-installation without professional help
• High-traffic areas where durability matters
• Businesses wanting colour-changing options

Learn more: Neon vs LED: the complete comparison

Types of Open Signs

Open signs come in many styles beyond the simple word “OPEN”. Here’s a breakdown of the main types available.

Classic “OPEN” text signs

The most recognisable format - simply the word “OPEN” in bold, illuminated letters. These come in horizontal or vertical orientations and various colours. Red remains the most popular choice as it’s highly visible and universally associated with “open for business”.

Common variations include:

• Script/cursive “Open” for elegant establishments
• Block letter “OPEN” for maximum visibility
• Vertical “OPEN” for narrow window spaces

Decorative open signs

For businesses wanting something with more personality, decorative open signs incorporate additional design elements:

• Coffee cup icons for cafés
• Scissors for salons and barbers
• Pizza slices or food imagery for restaurants
• Floral elements for boutiques and gift shops
• Retro diner-style frames and borders

Animated and flashing options

Some open signs feature animation or flashing effects to grab extra attention:

• Chasing lights - LEDs that appear to move around the sign
• Flashing - Alternating on/off at regular intervals
• Colour-changing - Shifting through multiple colours
• Two-mode - Steady or animated at the press of a button

Note: While animated signs attract attention, some local councils have restrictions on flashing signage. Check local planning regulations before purchasing.

Custom business name + open

Rather than a generic “OPEN” sign, many businesses opt for custom signs that incorporate their name alongside an open indicator. For example:

• “Smith’s Café - OPEN”
• Business logo with integrated open/closed section
• Dual-sided signs with different messages

Design your own: Try our free neon sign maker to create custom open signage.

Choosing the Right Open Sign for Your Business

Selecting the perfect open sign involves considering several factors beyond just “looks nice”.

Size guide for storefronts

The ideal sign size depends on your window dimensions and viewing distance:

Rule of thumb: Your sign should be large enough to read easily from across the street but proportionate to your window. A sign that’s too large can look cluttered, whilst too small may go unnoticed.

Learn more: Neon sign sizes: the complete guide

Colour recommendations by business type

While you can choose any colour, certain colours work particularly well for specific business types:

• Red - Classic choice, high visibility, suits most businesses
• Blue - Professional feel, ideal for services and offices
• Green - Fresh, natural, perfect for health food and eco-businesses
• Pink - Playful and feminine, salons and boutiques
• Warm white - Elegant and versatile, restaurants and cafés
• Multi-colour - Fun and attention-grabbing, entertainment venues

Consider your existing brand colours. A pink neon open sign might look stunning, but if your brand is strictly blue and white, it could create visual confusion.

Indoor vs outdoor considerations

Not all open signs are suitable for outdoor use:

Indoor only:

• Most standard LED open signs
• Traditional glass neon without weatherproof enclosure
• Signs with standard power adapters

Outdoor-rated:

• IP65 or higher waterproof rating
• UV-resistant materials (prevents fading)
• Weatherproof power connections
• Often more expensive but essential for exposed locations

If placing in a window visible from outside, an indoor sign is usually sufficient. For signs mounted externally or in covered but exposed areas, invest in outdoor-rated options.

Installation Guide for Open Signs

Getting your open sign up and running doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how to approach installation for different sign types.

Window mounting

The most common placement for open signs is inside a window, facing outward:

1. Clean the window - Remove dust and residue for clear visibility
2. Test placement - Hold the sign in position to check visibility from outside
3. Consider viewing angles - Position at eye level for pedestrians
4. Secure the sign - Use suction cups, adhesive hooks, or window chains
5. Manage the cable - Route power cables discreetly to nearest outlet

Tip: For double-sided visibility (inside and outside), position your sign slightly away from the glass rather than directly against it.

Wall mounting

For signs mounted on interior or exterior walls:

1. Choose your location - Near entrance, visible from main traffic flow
2. Check wall type - Different fixings for brick, plaster, or drywall
3. Mark mounting points - Use spirit level to ensure straight positioning
4. Drill and fix - Use appropriate wall plugs and screws
5. Connect power - Consider cable concealment options

Learn more: How to hang a neon sign: complete guide

Hanging options

Suspended open signs can create dramatic effects:

• Ceiling chains - Traditional look for high ceilings
• Fishing line - Nearly invisible support for floating effect
• Decorative ropes - Adds character for rustic aesthetics
• Adjustable cables - Easy height adjustment

Always ensure your ceiling can support the sign weight and that hanging hardware is rated appropriately.

Best Open Signs by Business Type

Different businesses have different needs. Here are tailored recommendations.

Retail stores

Best choice: Bright LED open sign with your brand colour

• High visibility to attract browsing shoppers
• Energy efficient for long trading hours
• Consider adding “SALE” or “NEW” companion signs

Restaurants and cafés

Best choice: Warm white or amber open sign

• Creates welcoming atmosphere
• Complements food service ambiance
• Consider signs with integrated imagery (coffee cup, cutlery)

Learn more: Neon sign ideas for restaurants and cafés

Bars and pubs

Best choice: Traditional neon or vintage-style LED

• Authentic aesthetic matches bar atmosphere
• Consider animated or multi-colour options
• Brand-specific colours reinforce identity

Salons and spas

Best choice: Elegant script or pink/purple tones

• Professional yet inviting appearance
• Consider signs with relevant icons (scissors, nail polish)
• Softer colours create relaxing first impression

Professional offices

Best choice: Subtle, professional design

• Clean fonts without excessive decoration
• Neutral colours (white, blue)
• May prefer “WELCOME” over aggressive “OPEN”

Open Sign Features to Consider

Modern open signs offer various features beyond simple illumination:

Brightness and dimming

• Fixed brightness - Simple and reliable
• Dimmable - Adjust for day/night or ambient lighting
• Auto-sensing - Adjusts brightness based on surrounding light

Power options

• Mains powered - Reliable, unlimited runtime
• Battery backup - Stays on during power cuts
• USB powered - Flexible placement, lower power

Control methods

• Simple switch - On/off, no complexity
• Timer function - Automatic on/off with trading hours
• Remote control - Adjust without reaching sign
• Smart control - App-based, integrate with smart home systems

Open/closed dual signs

Some signs display “OPEN” or “CLOSED” with a simple switch or flip, eliminating the need for separate signage.

Cost Considerations

Understanding the full cost of open sign ownership helps make informed decisions.

Initial purchase

Running costs

LED signs typically cost £5-15 per year in electricity (assuming 10-hour daily use). Glass neon costs 3-5x more to run due to higher power consumption.

Maintenance and replacement

LED signs rarely need maintenance but have limited repair options - usually full replacement when they fail. Glass neon can be repaired by specialists but at significant cost.

Learn more: Why are neon signs expensive?

Frequently Asked Questions

Are neon open signs worth it?

Absolutely. A quality open sign improves business visibility, attracts foot traffic, and creates a welcoming atmosphere. The investment typically pays for itself through increased customer visits. LED options offer excellent value from around £50.

How long do neon open signs last?

LED open signs typically last 30,000-50,000 hours (10+ years of daily use). Traditional glass neon signs last 8-15 years with proper care. Both can last significantly longer with quality construction and appropriate use.

Can I leave my neon open sign on all night?

LED signs can safely be left on continuously - they run cool and use minimal electricity. Traditional neon should be turned off when not needed to extend lifespan and reduce costs. Either way, always follow manufacturer guidelines.

Do open signs use a lot of electricity?

LED open signs are highly efficient, typically using 5-20 watts (similar to a lightbulb). Running a 15W LED sign for 10 hours daily costs approximately £1-2 per month. Glass neon uses more (40-100W) but is still relatively affordable.

Where should I place my open sign?

Position your open sign in a window facing the main pedestrian traffic flow, at eye level where possible. Ensure it’s clearly visible from across the street. Avoid placement where reflections or obstructions reduce visibility.

Can I use a neon open sign outdoors?

Only if specifically rated for outdoor use (look for IP65 rating or higher). Standard indoor signs will fail when exposed to moisture and weather. For window placement visible from outside, an indoor sign is fine.

Conclusion

A well-chosen open sign is a small investment that can have a significant impact on your business visibility and atmosphere. Whether you opt for the authentic glow of traditional glass neon or the practical efficiency of LED, the right open sign welcomes customers and signals that you’re ready for business.

When choosing your open sign, consider:

• LED for budget, efficiency, and durability
• Glass neon for authentic vintage aesthetic
• Size proportionate to your window
• Colours that match your brand
• Features that suit your operating needs

Ready to create a custom open sign for your business? Try our free neon sign maker to design your perfect storefront signage.

Related guides:

• How to hang neon signs: complete guide
• Neon sign sizes explained
• Custom neon signs cost guide
• LED neon signs: everything you need to know
• Neon vs LED comparison