Get the Look for Less: Lit Formed Plastic

When quoting a new illuminated commercial sign project, clients can have both big expectations and tight budgets. The good news? Cost-effective material options can still achieve the design vision they’re looking for. When your client is looking for illuminated signage on a budget, a smart way to win the project is by offering affordable upgrades and options.  Lit Formed Plastic is an upgrade to Trim Cap Channel Letters. Each product offers different benefits that allow you to match a final recommendation with the client’s budget and design vision. Offering multiple solutions and price points will result in an impressive proposal that achieves the design and durability they need at a competitive price point they’ll appreciate.

Comparing Sign Letter Material Options

When to Use Lit Formed Plastic

A popular, high-quality upgrade for traditional trim cap channel letters is Lit Formed Plastic. Offering several unique benefits, Lit Formed Plastic is one solution to affordability and premium quality for your client’s project. 

1. Customization Options: With Lit Formed Plastic’s trimless construction, a variety of face profiles (flat, round, prismatic, and custom sculpted), customizable depths (from 1.25” to 3”), and sizes ranging from 6” to 45” are available. This flexibility allows for more personalized and creative designs. 
2. Enhanced Durability: These signs are made from tough, UV-resistant plastic, ensuring longevity even in harsh conditions. They weigh up to 30% less than trim cap channel signs making installation easier and reducing shipping costs. 
3. Cost-Effective: Lit Formed Plastic signs offer significant savings compared to fabricated metal letters. They often cost 2-3 times less than other lit signs and can also take advantage of multiple set discounts, making them a smart investment when considering overall cost.  
4. Superior Illumination: Choose from halo lit, face lit, side lit, or a combination of lighting options. This versatility ensures your sign stands out, day or night. The use of UL-certified, maintenance-free LED modules guarantees consistent, high-quality illumination. 
5. Lifetime Guarantee: Lit Formed Plastic signs come with Gemini’s lifetime guarantee on replacement faces and a 10-year warranty on electrical components. This assurance provides peace of mind, knowing that you are investing in a product that lasts. 

When to Use Fabricated Metal Letters

For projects that require premium-quality materials, fabricated metal letters are the go-to product choice. Crafted from stainless steel or aluminum, fabricated metal letters are assembled by welding or soldering them together to form premium, trimless channel letters and sign elements. These signs blend unparalleled durability with a sleek, modern look making them ideal for high-end design applications where budget is not the main customer concern. Fabricated metal letters provide excellent lighting and aesthetic options, but they can also be a budget buster for cost-conscious clients.

Trim Cap Channel Letters

Trim Cap channel letters are a common option within the sign industry, however, they are also most susceptible to cracking or general deterioration over time and require replacement much sooner than other options. One alternative to consider is GemTrim trim cap to achieve both design and durability. Available in several colors sold through Gemini distributors and comes with a lifetime guarantee. 

When clients inquire about channel letters, it’s an opportunity to introduce the benefits of Lit Formed Plastic. Consider sharing the materials options in a Good/Better/Best approach to help clarify the cost-benefit of each choice. 

• Good: Trim cap channel letters offer a reliable and economical solution. They are suitable for clients with tight budgets who still want effective signage. 

• Better:  Lit Formed Plastic provides enhanced customization and durability, delivering premium features without the premium price. 

• Best: Fabricated metal letters are crafted from stainless steel or aluminum, offering exceptional durability.  

Positioning the material benefits, features, and price points clearly and concisely will fast-track decision-making and build lasting rapport with your client.  

Learn more about Gemini’s Lit Formed Plastic products by downloading our product guide. Ready to quote? Gemini partners can get instant quotes in our Partner Portal.