Single-sided lightboxes rely on a well-printed face to look sharp day and night. We print translucent faces on backlit material and can supply replacement faces when your promotion changes. Boldmedia Print Zimbabwe keeps your artwork on file for reprints.
A single-sided lightbox has one illuminated face and is mounted flat against a wall, fascia or bulkhead, with the back of the box closed. It is the most common type of illuminated sign for shopfronts, office entrances and interior displays, because most signs are read from one direction only. The face can carry a logo, a menu, a full-colour image or a simple name, lit evenly from within.
Choosing single-sided over double-sided makes sense whenever people only see the sign from the front, as it is simpler to build, lighter to mount and costs less. A good single-sided box sits neatly on the wall with concealed fixings, has a sealed back to keep out dust and water, and gives even light across the whole face. Where the sign must be seen from both directions along a street, a projecting double-sided lightbox is the better choice.
Where it works well
- Wall-mounted shop fascias
- Office and reception brand signs
- Illuminated menu boards behind counters
- Wall-mounted promotional displays in malls
- Fuel station and forecourt wall signs
- Corridor and entrance information signs
Materials and finishes
- Aluminium or folded steel box, powder-coated
- Opal acrylic face
- Polycarbonate face for impact resistance
- Translucent vinyl or direct print graphics
- Fabric face with silicone-edge graphic for interiors
Lighting options
- Back-lit LED modules
- Edge-lit LED for slim profiles
- Choice of white colour temperature
What affects the price
- Overall box dimensions
- Face material and graphic type
- Box depth and profile
- LED module type and quantity
- Wall fixing and sub-frame requirements
- Access equipment for installation
Supplying measurements
Send the wall or bulkhead dimensions and the maximum depth that can be accommodated. Include a photo showing the area and any obstacles such as downpipes, aircon units or roller-shutter boxes.
Artwork requirements
Provide print-ready vector artwork (PDF, AI, EPS or SVG) with outlined fonts and bleed, or full-size high-resolution images for photographic faces. Dark backgrounds with light text often read best when illuminated.
Survey and installation
The box is fixed directly to the wall or a sub-frame, with cabling routed to a nearby power point. High-level outdoor installs may need a site survey, and electrical connection is by a qualified electrician.
Maintenance
Wipe the face down regularly with a soft cloth to keep the light even. Inspect seals around the box edges outdoors so water does not reach the LEDs.
Frequently asked questions
When should I choose a single-sided lightbox?
When the sign is mounted flat on a wall and only viewed from the front.
How deep is a single-sided lightbox?
Depth depends on the size and lighting method; slim edge-lit boxes can be much thinner than traditional back-lit boxes.
Can it display a full-colour photo?
Yes, using a translucent print designed for backlit display.