Sign Graphics Replacement: The Most Economical Way to Refresh a Light Box
When the cabinet is solid and the acrylic face is still clear, the only thing that needs to change is the artwork. Replacing just the graphics is usually the most practical and cost-effective way to update a light box (cabinet sign).
It is the go-to option for a rebrand, a new business moving into a unit, or a sign whose colours have simply faded.
- Free site visit & measurement
- Design included
- 2-year warranty
- Own workshop in Calgary
What Graphics Replacement Means
Many light boxes have their artwork on translucent film applied to the acrylic face, rather than printed directly onto it. In that case the graphics can often be replaced on their own: the old film comes off, new UV-printed graphics go on, and the cabinet and acrylic stay as they are. Sometimes the face itself is worn or the artwork cannot be removed cleanly. Then a new face is the better choice. Which option suits your sign is decided at the site visit.
This is the lightest form of re-face. Nothing structural changes, no new acrylic is made, and the sign looks like new because what people actually notice (the colours and the message) is fresh.
Why Business Owners Choose a Graphics-Only Re-Face
Lowest cost of the three options
No new cabinet, no new acrylic: you pay for the artwork and the work of changing it.
Removal and reinstallation included
Taking the face down and putting it back is part of the price.
Rebrand without the big budget
New name, new logo, new colours: your storefront shows the change right away.
Bright colours again
Faded graphics make a business look neglected; fresh UV print restores full colour.
Quick turnaround
Graphics replacement is one of the simplest sign jobs to schedule and complete.
When Graphics Replacement Works, and When It Does Not
Graphics-only replacement is the right choice when:
- The cabinet is sound and securely mounted
- The acrylic face is not cracked, warped or yellowed
- The lighting works evenly
- Your graphics are outdated, faded or belong to a previous tenant
If the acrylic itself is damaged or yellowed, new graphics on an old face will still look tired. A face replacement is the better value. If the cabinet is failing, we will recommend a new light box. Not sure? The guide light box re-face vs a new cabinet helps you decide.
Printing That Holds Its Colour
UV printing for backlit use
New graphics are UV-printed on specialized translucent film made for backlit applications. Colours stay rich when the sign is lit, and the print is designed for long-term outdoor use with improved resistance to fading.
Layout to the exact face size
We measure the face on site and lay out your artwork to it, so nothing is cropped or stretched. You approve a proof before printing.
Your logo in any format
SVG is preferred, but any file works. If you only have a picture of your logo, we prepare the print file for you. Design preparation is included.
Price
New graphics on your existing face cost CAD $450 plus CAD $20 per square foot, plus GST, for one face. For a 4 × 8 ft face that is about CAD $1,090. The price includes removal and reinstallation, so there are no extra installation charges. We confirm the exact amount after measuring the face.
- Face size
- One or two faces
- Colours and print coverage
- Access to the sign
Use the light box calculator for a quick estimate, then we confirm the exact price on site.
New name on an old sign box?
Send a photo of the sign and your new logo. We will check whether graphics replacement is enough and quote it.
Process and Timeline
Free site visit → proof on the exact face size → written quote → printing → we remove the face, replace the graphics and reinstall it. Most jobs are done within about two weeks.
Graphics Replacement Questions
Graphics replacement changes only the printed artwork. Face replacement also replaces the acrylic panel itself, which is needed when the old acrylic is cracked or yellowed.
CAD $450 plus CAD $20 per square foot, plus GST for one face, with removal and reinstallation included. A 4 × 8 ft face comes to about CAD $1,090.
Yes, for graphics replacement it is included in the price.
According to calgary.ca, a development permit is not required to change the copy of a legally existing sign. We confirm this for your sign during the site visit.
Yes. We measure the existing face on site and print graphics to fit it, whoever built the cabinet originally.
Yes. UV printing reproduces logos, gradients and multiple colours; we send a proof before printing.
Sources
- City of Calgary: Sign permits, accessed 2026-10-28