Lit house numbers, desktop letters and battery halo letters

Not every sign goes on a storefront. These are the small ones, built the same way as our full-size letters. That includes backlit address numbers, desk signs and wireless light-up letters.

Halo-lit house numbers are 304 stainless steel digits in matte black, brushed or gold with a translucent acrylic back. LEDs inside glow onto the wall behind, so the address reads at night without a porch light. Outdoor numbers run on 12 V from an outdoor power supply or low-voltage transformer, mount flush with studs and a full-size template, and a dusk-to-dawn photocell can turn them on by itself. Many cities and fire departments ask for address numbers of a minimum height that contrast with the wall, so check your local rule; the lit house numbers guide covers what to look for.

Desktop letters are small front-lit or halo-lit letters on a slim metal base for a reception desk, counter, shelf or trade show table. A recent example is a tabletop sign about 24 in wide with letters about 6 in tall, powered by a 12 V plug-in adapter.

Battery halo letters run from a rechargeable battery pack with a remote, so they need no outlet and no electrician. They suit rented spaces, pop-ups, events and photo walls. Run time depends on letter size, brightness and hours on, and it is confirmed on your drawing. The guide to battery-powered letters explains what affects it, and our house numbers project shows the numbers at home.