Single-Pole vs. Dual-Pole LED Signs: Which Is Right for You?
One of the most important structural decisions for your LED sign is whether to mount it on a single pole or dual poles. While it might seem like a matter of preference, the choice actually depends on sign size, weight, wind load, and aesthetics.
Here’s what you need to know.
✅ Single-Pole Signs
What They Are:
A single steel pole supports the entire sign cabinet (or cabinets).
When They’re Used:
-
Small to very large signs — single poles can support everything from a 4x6 LED cabinet to full-size billboards.
-
When the sign has a center of gravity that can be balanced over one column.
-
When customers want a clean, minimal look (common along highways and in commercial plazas).
Why It Works:
-
With proper engineering and footing depth, a single pole can carry extremely heavy loads.
-
Billboards you see along highways are proof — they use single columns, but the pole and footing are massive to resist wind.
-
Less steel in the air = simpler appearance and often lower fabrication costs.
✅ Dual-Pole Signs
What They Are:
Two steel poles support the sign cabinet, usually spaced apart beneath the structure.
When They’re Used:
-
Wide LED signs where distributing load across two poles makes fabrication simpler.
-
Heavier cabinets where a dual design allows smaller poles and lighter footing compared to a giant single column.
-
Aesthetic preference — some customers like the look of twin poles or want to integrate them into a brick/stone base.
-
Redundancy & serviceability — if one pole weld connection develops issues, the second pole provides backup.
Why It Works:
-
By spreading the load, you reduce the demand on each footing and each pole.
-
Easier to attach horizontal beams and cross-bracing for double-sided signs.
-
Can simplify installation in soils where one massive footing would be impractical.
✅ Single vs. Dual: It’s Not About “Bigger = Two Poles”
The decision isn’t just about sign weight or size. A single pole can handle enormous structures if it’s engineered correctly. Dual poles may be chosen for practical reasons (load distribution, ease of fabrication, soil conditions) or for visual style.
Think of it this way:
-
Single pole = cleaner look, often preferred for tall highway signs.
-
Dual pole = wider stance, often preferred for ground-level commercial signs or where cross-bracing helps stabilize double-sided cabinets.
✅ Other Pole Options
Beyond single vs. dual, poles can vary in material and design:
-
Round Steel Pipe — standard, cost-effective, and strong.
-
Square Steel Tube — provides flat surfaces for welding beams and brackets.
-
I-Beam Steel — used in especially large/heavy signs or custom structures.
-
Decorative Cladding — poles can be wrapped in aluminum, stone, or brickwork for aesthetics.
✅ When to Consider Two Poles
-
Your sign is very wide (longer than 15–20 ft) and easier to balance across two supports.
-
You prefer the look of dual poles (sometimes matching a monument base).
-
Your site has soil conditions where two smaller footings are more practical than one massive one.
-
You want additional lateral bracing for a double-sided LED sign.
✅ Why Engineering Decides
Ultimately, whether you use one pole or two isn’t about preference alone. It comes down to:
-
Sign weight (cabinet + frame + structure).
-
Face area (how much wind load the sign creates).
-
Height above grade (taller = more leverage on the base).
-
Soil conditions (rock, clay, sand, or groundwater).
-
Local code and wind speed requirements.
With the right engineering, a single pole can hold a billboard. With different conditions, two poles may be the safer and smarter choice.
Final Word
Whether you choose a single-pole or dual-pole design, both can be engineered to safely support your LED sign. The decision often comes down to site conditions, design preference, and cost efficiency. At LED Sign City, we’ll help you evaluate your project and recommend the best option so your sign is strong, safe, and built to last.