Can Neon Signs Go Outside? Everything You Need to Know

Can neon signs go outside? Yes, but the answer depends on the type of sign you own. Traditional glass neon and modern LED neon behave very differently in outdoor conditions. In this guide, VitalNeon breaks down exactly what you need to know before mounting any sign outside.

Whether you want to light up a garden party, or can neon signs go outside is one of the most important questions to answer. Getting it wrong means a damaged sign, a safety risk, or wasted money.

 Glass Neon vs LED Neon | Which Can Go Outside?

Here is the difference that is given below:

Traditional Glass Neon Signs

Classic glass neon signs use sealed tubes filled with noble gases. They produce a beautiful, authentic glow, but they are fragile. Glass cracks under thermal shock, and exposed electrical connections are vulnerable to water ingress. Most glass neon signs are not rated for outdoor use unless they come with specific weatherproof enclosures.

If you have a vintage glass sign and you're wondering can neon signs go outside in that form  the short answer is only with significant weatherproofing work.

LED Neon Signs

LED neon signs use flexible PVC tubing with LED strips inside. They are lighter, shatterproof, and can be manufactured to IP65 or IP67 waterproof ratings. This makes them the far better choice for outdoor use. At VitalNeon, all our outdoor-rated LED signs are built to handle real weather.

 How Long Do Neon Signs Last Outdoors?

A question closely linked to outdoor use is: can neon signs go outside when exposed to the elements?

Glass Neon Lifespan

Traditional glass neon lasts 8,000 to 15,000 hours indoors under stable conditions. Outdoors, exposure to rain, UV, and temperature swings can cut that figure significantly. How long does neon last outside depends heavily on local climate and whether the sign is sheltered.

LED Neon Lifespan

LED neon signs last 50,000+ hours in ideal indoor conditions. How long does a neon sign last outdoors when it is LED? With proper installation and an IP65+ rating, you can realistically expect 5 to 10 years of reliable outdoor use.

A key factor in how long does a neon light last outside is the quality of the seal. Cheap units degrade fast. VitalNeon uses industrial-grade silicone seals and UV-stabilized tubing for all outdoor products.

 Understanding IP Ratings for Outdoor Neon Signs

The IP (Ingress Protection) rating tells you how well a sign is protected against water and dust. Before placing any sign outside, check its IP rating:

•       IP44:  Protected against splashing water; suitable for covered outdoor areas

•       IP65: Fully dust-tight; protected against low-pressure water jets; ideal for most outdoor use

•       IP67:  Immersion-resistant up to 1 meter; best for exposed or high-rainfall locations

•       IP68:Continuous immersion; rarely needed for signage

 Key Factors That Affect Outdoor Neon Sign Performance

Here are some factors to know: Can neon signs go outside?

Rain and Moisture

Water is the number one enemy of any outdoor sign. Even IP-rated signs should be mounted with the power inlet facing downward to prevent water pooling around connectors.

UV Exposure

Prolonged direct sunlight fades colors and weakens PVC tubing. Always choose UV-stabilized materials. Signs under awnings or covered structures last significantly longer.

Temperature Fluctuations

Extreme heat expands materials; extreme cold contracts them. Quality LED neon handles a range of -20°C to 50°C without performance issues. Cheap signs crack or dim at the extremes.

Wind and Physical Impact

Wind load is a real concern for large outdoor signs. Use heavy-duty mounting brackets rated for the sign's weight, and add extra anchor points in high-wind locations.

Dust and Pollution

Airborne grit etches surfaces over time and clogs vents. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth every few months keeps outdoor signs at full brightness.

 Best Practices for Using Neon Signs Outside

Here are some tips to know can neon signs go outside

1.    Always choose an IP65 or higher-rated sign for any outdoor installation

2.    Mount with the power cable and inlet facing downward to shed water

3.    Position under an awning or canopy,y where possible,e to reduce UV and rain exposure

4.    Use stainless steel or galvanised mounting hardware to prevent rust

5.    Check all cable connections and seals every six months

6.    Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth. Never use abrasive cleaners

7.    Bring battery-operated or non-rated signs inside during heavy rain or storms

When Should You NOT Use a Neon Sign Outside?

Not every neon sign is built for the outdoors. Do not place a sign outside if:

•       It has no visible IP rating printed on the product or documentation

•       It is a vintage or antique glass neon without a sealed weatherproof housing

•       The power adapter or transformer is not rated for outdoor use

•       The sign is located in a coastal area with salt air  only marine-grade rated signs apply here

•       You are using a standard indoor extension cable to power it outside

If none of those issues apply, can neon signs go outside in your situation? Almost certainly yes. VitalNeon's team can advise on the right product for your specific environment.

How Long Does a Neon Sign Last? A Full Lifespan Breakdown

This question comes up constantly, so here is a clear breakdown:

Glass neon (indoor): 8,000 to 15,000 hours

Glass neon (outdoor, sheltered): 5,000 to 10,000 hours, depending on climate

LED neon (indoor): 50,000+ hours  over 17 years at 8hrs/day

LED neon (outdoor, IP65): 30,000 to 50,000 hours with proper maintenance

The gap between glass and LED is significant. How long a neon sign lasts in outdoor conditions is ultimately a question of build quality, rating, and maintenance. LED wins every time for outdoor longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can neon signs go outside in winter?

Yes, if they are rated IP65 or above and use LED technology. Quality LED neon handles temperatures down to -20°C without performance loss.

Do I need a special power supply for outdoor neon?

Yes. Always use a weatherproof outdoor-rated transformer or driver. Your sign's power adapter must also carry an outdoor IP rating, typically IP44 or above.

Can neon signs go outside permanently?

LED neon signs with IP65+ ratings are designed for permanent outdoor installation. Glass neon can be used outdoors, but requires regular professional inspection to remain safe.

How long does a neon sign last outside compared to indoors?

Outdoor exposure reduces lifespan by roughly 20 to 40% compared to sheltered indoor use, even for rated signs. Choosing a higher IP rating and shielding from direct sun extends this considerably.

Are VitalNeon signs rated for outdoor use?

Yes. VitalNeon offers a range of IP65-rated LED neon signs built specifically for outdoor installation. Check the product page for the IP rating, or contact our team for a recommendation.

Final Verdict: Can Neon Signs Go Outside?

Can neon signs go outside? Absolutely, but only when you choose the right product and install it correctly. LED neon with an IP65 or higher rating is safe, durable, and low-maintenance for almost any outdoor environment. Glass neon requires far more care and is generally better kept indoors unless professionally weatherproofed.

At VitalNeon, we make it simple. Every product page clearly states whether the sign is rated for outdoor use, what IP protection it carries, and how long you can expect it to last. If you're still asking can neon signs go outside for your specific situation, get in touch and we'll point you to exactly the right sign.