Letter Thickness and Kinds of Track for Lighted Signs
Here's how to identify the kind of letters you have (or need) for your sign.
First is a very brief guide to identify the letters.
Second is a guide to identify a sign face with track.
First: How to Identify Clear Plastic Letter Panels: A Quick Guide
Clear plastic letter panels offer a versatile way to create eye-catching signs. To distinguish between flexible and rigid letter types, follow this simple guide:
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Flexible Letters:
Flexible letters are designed for sign boards with flex track. They easily bend to fit into the track, making them ideal for curved or uneven surfaces.
- Rigid Letters:
Rigid letters come in two variations - 2 credit cards thick (0.060") or 3 credit cards thick (0.080"-0.090"). These letters require pronto letter track sign faces and are perfect for flat mounting surfaces.
To determine the size of the letters for ordering, measure the printed letter height from base to top. Once identified, you can conveniently order your desired clear plastic letter panels from MyDIYsigns.com, offering a wide selection to meet your specific needs.
Second: How to tell which kind of sign letter track you have on your sign.
If you're considering replacing the lettering on your sign face plastic, it's crucial to identify the type of letter track used and measure the track distance accurately for the new letter size. Here's a brief guide to help you with the process:
1. Types of Letter Tracks: There are typically two common types of letter tracks
used on sign face plastics:
a) Flex Track: Flex tracks are flexible plastic strips that feature identical tops and bottom track to insert letters. They are designed for thin, flexible letters.
b) Rigid Track: Rigid tracks are sturdy and rigid letter-holding strips that usually have specific top, dual and bottom track for mounting letters. Letters must be inserted into the top part and then drop down into the bottom.
2. Inspect Your Sign Face: Begin by carefully examining your sign face plastic to determine the type of track used. Look for visible grooves, slots, or rigid strips where the letters are attached. Different types of tracks may have distinct features that will help you identify them easily. Send photos if in doubt.
3. Measure the Track Distance: To determine the appropriate letter size for your sign, you need to measure the track distance accurately. Follow these steps:
a) Flex Track: For flex track systems, measure the distance between the centers of two adjacent tracks. Use a tape measure to get an accurate reading. This measurement will be your "on-center" spacing. Ensure you measure multiple sections of the sign face to account for any variations.
b) Rigid Track: If your sign uses rigid tracks, measure the available opening slot of a single track. Typically, this will be a bit larger thn the maximum letter size that the track can accommodate.
4. Choosing the Right Letter Size: With the track distance measurement in hand, you can now select the appropriate letter size for your sign. Ideally, you should choose letters that fit snugly into the tracks without being too tight or too loose. A good rule of thumb is to opt for letters that are slightly smaller than the measured track distance to ensure a proper fit. Flex letters are designed to bow out slightly.
5. Ordering the Letters: Once you have determined the track type and measured the track distance, you can proceed to purchase the new letters for your sign. Many suppliers offer a variety of letter styles and sizes compatible with different track systems.
6. Sending Photos for Assistance: If you are unsure about the type of letter track or need further guidance on measuring, you can take photos of the existing sign face and letters and send them to Link text. Their team of experts will be happy to assist you in identifying the right track and recommending suitable letter sizes for your sign.
7. Safety Precautions: Before replacing the letters on your sign face, take safety precautions, especially if the sign is mounted at a height. Use appropriate safety gear and tools to prevent accidents.
