How LED Signs Are Installed: Pole vs. Wall
When you choose a DIY installation, you’ll be responsible for setting the foundation, anchoring the sign, and ensuring the support structure can safely handle the load. Below we’ll walk through what’s required for the two most common methods: pole-mounted and wall-mounted LED signs.
Pole-Mounted Installations
Pole installations are the most common option for roadside and freestanding LED signs. The process requires both a foundation and a secure attachment method.
Key Requirements:
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Foundation:
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The pole can be set directly into the earth, with depth and diameter based on the sign’s size, weight, and local codes.
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The pole must be secured with concrete to handle wind load and vibration.
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Alternatives:
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Concrete pad with welded base plate — the pole is welded to a steel plate, and the plate is bolted to the pad.
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Anchor bolt system (like streetlights) — bolts are embedded into the concrete pad during pouring. The pole’s base plate has pre-drilled holes that fit over the bolts and is then secured with nuts.
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Structural Attachment:
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At minimum, horizontal beams must be welded to the vertical pole(s) to create a mounting surface.
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The provided L-brackets are bolted to the back of the LED sign cabinet.
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The brackets are then welded or bolted to the horizontal beams on the pole structure.
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Materials Often Used:
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Steel pipe or square tubing for poles.
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Horizontal support beams: 2” square tubing or angle iron.
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L-brackets (included with the sign).
Important Note:
Every pole installation requires careful foundation planning. Depth, width, and reinforcement must follow engineered recommendations to meet safety and code standards.
Wall-Mounted Installations
For wall mounts, the building itself serves as the foundation. This means the structure must be strong enough to handle the sign’s weight and wind load.
Key Requirements:
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Support Beams:
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Horizontal beams are bolted to the wall to support the sign’s cabinet.
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Suitable fasteners include through-bolts, wedge anchors, sleeve anchors, or lag bolts — chosen based on wall material (concrete, block, or steel).
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For larger signs, a reinforced frame may be needed, combining both horizontal and vertical supports.
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Attachment:
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L-brackets are bolted to the LED cabinet.
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These brackets are then bolted or welded to the wall-mounted beams or frame.
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Materials Often Used:
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2” square tubing for horizontal and vertical beams.
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L-brackets and angle iron for added reinforcement.
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High-strength bolts or anchors rated for exterior loads.
Important Note:
Even if your city doesn’t require an engineered drawing, we strongly recommend one. Every wall is different — an engineered plan ensures you know exactly what hardware and reinforcements are needed before installation begins.
Why Engineering Matters
While we provide general illustrations to guide your project, the final design should always be reviewed for your specific site conditions. An engineered drawing considers:
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Sign size and weight
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Wind load and local weather conditions
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Wall or soil strength
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Local code requirements
This prevents costly mistakes and ensures the safety and longevity of your installation.