The Pros and Cons of Trim Cap-Free Letters

One of the more recent advancements in channel letter construction is the ability to use a specially manufactured coil to fabricate letters that don’t require traditional plastic trim cap. Trim cap is the notoriously unattractive element used to attach the acrylic face to the letter return.

The main reason a trim cap-free letter is sought after by customers is simply that it looks great. A trim capless channel letter delivers a clean, contemporary, high-end appearance as well as sturdy construction.

But like everything else in life, that beauty comes with a cost. Trim cap-free channel letters can be more costly to produce and, therefore, may prove cost-prohibitive to some clients. Sign companies, however, can benefit by offering a premium letter solution that commands a premium price because there is a lot less competition in that segment of the market.

Pros of trim cap-free channel letters

• Increases output capacity of the bending machine by about 40% by eliminating the need to produce a notched flange on the channel letter return
• Premium product commands a premium price
• Less competition in the market
• Clean look
• More design options
• One less major failure point

Cons of trim cap-free channel letters

• Higher skill needed to fabricate
• Can be more challenging to install
• Not recommended for larger letters
• Letter has to be sealed to avoid light leaks out the back

Take a deeper dive into these pros and cons here.