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Think of your open/closed sign as the business equivalent of a smile at the door — it either invites customers in or leaves them guessing. A clear, well-lit sign can increase foot traffic, reduce confusion, and reflect your brand’s personality. Whether you run a coffee shop, boutique, or repair shop, the right sign improves visibility from 10 feet to 100 feet, depending on size and brightness. Ready to choose one that actually works?
There’s no one-size-fits-all sign. Instead, there are smart options that match different storefronts, budgets, and installation needs. Below I break down the most common types so you can match style to strategy.
Neon-style and LED-lit open signs are bright, eye-catching, and readable from far away. LED signs mimic classic neon looks but use less power and last longer — many LEDs are rated for 50,000 hours or more. Typical sizes start at about 12 inches by 6 inches and go up to 24 inches by 12 inches for maximum curb appeal. These are ideal if your storefront faces a busy street or you’re open after dusk.
Simple, mechanical flip signs say “OPEN” on one side and “CLOSED” on the other. They’re low-tech, inexpensive, and require no power — perfect for small shops, pop-ups, and markets. Expect common sizes like 12 inches by 8 inches or 10 inches in diameter for round models. Flip signs are an old-school favorite because they’re reliable and easy to swap when staff change shifts.
Backlit signs use a light box to illuminate text evenly across the face, while edge-lit signs highlight only the lettering and edges for a modern look. These are sleeker than bulky neon and often used by upscale boutiques, salons, and offices. A typical edge-lit panel might be 18 inches by 6 inches, giving a refined glow without overwhelming your facade.
If you want branding consistency, custom printed or carved signs let you match fonts, colors, and materials. Materials range from weather-resistant PVC and aluminum to wooden plaques for a rustic touch. Custom options often come in sizes like 24 inches by 12 inches or larger to match storefront scale. They’re ideal when you want your open/closed message to feel part of a cohesive brand identity.
Looking for where to buy? Here’s a rundown of reputable US vendors that suit different needs — from big-box convenience to specialized sign makers. Each has strengths depending on budget, speed, and customization.
Home Depot carries a wide range of ready-made open/closed signs, especially LED and reversible styles. They’re a good choice if you need something quickly and want the convenience of in-store pickup. Expect durable plastic or metal signs in sizes like 12 inches by 8 inches, with affordable LED options for evening visibility.
Lowe’s offers similar stock to Home Depot, with practical, durable options suited for outdoor use. Their selection includes weatherproof signs and simple backlit displays. Lowe’s is handy when you want a balance between quality and price and need an easy return or exchange process through local stores.
Walmart is great for budget-minded buyers and small retailers who want basic flip signs or inexpensive LED signs. You’ll find compact sizes that suit kiosks or small storefronts and online shipping across the US. Walmart’s pricing makes it a logical choice for multiple-location businesses stocking several doors.
Staples is ideal if you want office-style or indoor signs that match reception areas and professional suites. Their online customization tools help with small-batch custom prints and edge-lit desk signs. If you need a polished indoor “OPEN” sign near your front desk, Staples has reliable business-focused options.
SignWarehouse and FastSigns are specialty sign shops offering a wider range of materials, full customization, and professional installation. FastSigns has local franchises across the country for faster turnaround, while SignWarehouse offers competitive online pricing and a large catalog. Choose these for storefronts that need branded, durable, and regulation-compliant signage.
Vistaprint is a great choice for small businesses wanting affordable, customized printed signs. Their online design tools make it easy to upload logos and select sizes such as 18 inches by 6 inches or 24 inches by 12 inches. Vistaprint blends professional appearance with quick shipping for launch-day needs.
If you’re running a larger operation or need industrial-grade signs, Uline and Grainger supply robust options suited for warehouses and heavy-duty storefronts. These vendors focus on durability — think aluminum plates and heavy plastic housings — and sizes designed to withstand outdoor elements and frequent handling.
Amazon offers a massive selection ranging from cheap flip signs to high-end LED panels with overnight shipping. Etsy, on the other hand, is the go-to for handcrafted wood signs and creative, bespoke designs. Use Amazon for fast delivery and a wide price range; use Etsy when you want something artisanal and unique that tells a story.
Choosing the right material is critical if your sign will face wind, rain, or intense sun. Aluminum, acrylic, and polycarbonate are top outdoor picks — they resist rust, cracking, and fading. Look for UV-resistant ink on printed signs so colors don’t wash out after a season. For longevity, choose a sign rated for outdoor use and, if possible, get a protective clear coat to extend life by several years.
Size matters: too small and drivers zoom past; too large and it dominates your facade. For a sign visible from across the street, consider at least 24 inches of width and letters about 4 inches tall — this helps readability from roughly 30 to 50 feet. If sidewalk foot traffic is your priority, a 12 inch by 6 inch sign at eye level often does the trick. Placement should avoid glare from the sun or blocked sightlines from awnings.
Install signs so they’re level and securely fastened. For outdoor LED panels, use weatherproof wiring and a dedicated outlet if possible. Always check local signage codes — some city ordinances restrict illuminated signage or have size limits. If in doubt, a professional installer from FastSigns or a local sign shop can ensure compliance and safety, especially for electrical work.
LED options are energy-efficient and bright enough for nighttime visibility without draining electricity. A small LED “OPEN” sign might use 10 to 25 watts, while larger backlit boxes consume more depending on size. If your sign operates 12 hours a day, switching to energy-efficient LEDs saves on monthly utility costs and reduces maintenance since LEDs last far longer than neon tubes.
Your sign should be readable, but it can also be an expression of your brand. Use your primary brand color for the word “OPEN” and a secondary color for trim. Choose a simple font — sans-serif fonts are easiest to read at a glance. Add your logo only if it doesn’t clutter the message; remember, at peak glance time, customers have about 1 to 2 seconds to register what your sign says.
Budget signs like plastic flip boards or small LED panels start around $10 to $50, while custom backlit or metal carved signs can range from $150 to $1,000 or more, depending on size and customization. Factor in installation, electrical work, and potential permitting when calculating total cost. For many small businesses, a high-impact LED sign around $100 to $300 provides the best balance of visibility and value.
Keep signs dust-free and inspect them seasonally for loose mounts, cracked housings, or fading. For illuminated signs, check bulbs or LED modules once a year and use a soft cloth and mild cleaner — avoid abrasive materials that scratch surfaces. A little maintenance can add years to your sign’s life, much like regular oil changes keep a car running smoothly.
Deciding comes down to three questions: How far away should people read it? What’s your budget? What vibe do you want to project? If your store benefits from nighttime traffic, choose an LED or neon-style sign. If you need budget-friendly and low-tech, a reversible flip sign works great. For branded storefronts with high expectations, invest in custom backlit or edge-lit signs to make a professional statement.
Start by measuring your storefront and the distance from the curb. Sketch how the sign will look and choose a size that balances readability with aesthetics. Then compare vendors: big-box stores for quick buys, specialty sign shops for custom work, and online marketplaces for variety. Don’t forget to ask vendors about warranty and expected lifespan — a longer warranty often signals better build quality.
Before you click “buy,” run through this short checklist: confirm size and mounting method, verify outdoor rating and UV resistance, check electrical requirements for illuminated signs, compare warranties, and read reviews for real-world durability. If you’ve covered these points, you’ll avoid surprises and pick a sign that serves you for years.
Conclusion: Your open/closed sign is more than a functional notice — it’s a small marketing tool that tells customers you’re ready to serve. With the right material, size, and vendor, you can turn a simple sign into a powerful business asset. Whether you shop at Home Depot for convenience, FastSigns for customization, or Etsy for a handcrafted vibe, there’s an option that fits your storefront and budget.
