How to Hang a Neon Sign (Without Messing It Up)

A neon sign instantly transforms your space—it adds personality, warmth, and that perfect glow. But here’s the tricky part: how to hang a neon sign. Do it wrong and you could crack the acrylic backing, ruin your wall, or end up with a crooked sign that bugs you every time you look at it.

Whether you’ve got a classic glass neon sign or a modern LED version, this guide shows you exactly how to hang your sign safely and neatly—with renter-friendly tips, cord management hacks, and all the right tools for the job.

TL;DR – Quick Neon Hanging Tips

• Drywall/plaster? Use screws with wall anchors.

• Brick/concrete? Hammer drill + masonry anchors.

• Wood studs? Pilot holes & screws directly.

• Renting? Heavy-duty Command Strips (LED signs only).

• Want a floating look? Use stand-offs or ceiling chains.

• Always unplug before mounting and secure the cords neatly afterward.

If you’re in a hurry, this quick guide covers 80% of cases. For a more detailed explanation of every method (and what NOT to do), keep reading.

Step 1: Understand Your Sign Type

Not all neon signs are created equal. Before you touch the wall, figure out what type of sign you have, because this determines the safest mounting method.

✅ Glass Neon Signs

• Heavier & more fragile—made from delicate glass tubing.

• Always require drilled mounting (anchors & screws).

• Not ideal for temporary placement; think permanent install.

✅ LED Neon Signs

• Lightweight, safer, and more energy-efficient.

• Often mounted on an acrylic backing, which is easy to work with.

• Renter-friendly—you can hang them with screws OR heavy-duty adhesive strips (if they’re under ~5 lbs).

>>> Explore more: LED vs Neon Signs

💡 Quick Rule: If your sign feels heavy or fragile, never trust adhesive strips—drilling is the way to go.

Step 2: Choose the Perfect Spot

Placement matters as much as how you hang it. So pay attention to:

• Visibility: Where will it have the most impact? In a living room, above a sofa is common. In a business, make sure it’s visible from entry points or through windows.

• Height: Generally, eye-level (about 5–6 ft from the floor) works best for most spaces. For bars or cafes, you might go a bit higher for better visibility.

• Power Source: Is there an outlet nearby? If not, you’ll need an extension cord or plan to hide the wire along the baseboard.

• Wall Type: Drywall, plaster, brick, concrete, or wood all require slightly different approaches.

• Environment: Avoid direct sunlight (which can fade colors) and moisture unless the sign is waterproof-rated for outdoor use.

Here are some recommendations on the place to hang:

• Hanging a neon sign on a wall → The most common method. Perfect for homes, bars, and cafés.

• Hanging a neon sign from the ceiling → Ideal for oversized commercial signs or when you want a floating effect in a bar or retail store.

• Hanging a neon sign in a window → Great for storefronts where you want maximum visibility to people outside. Suction hooks or custom brackets work best here.

• Simply hanging up a neon sign temporarily → Use renter-friendly adhesive hooks or Command Strips for lightweight LED signs.

For Outdoor Mounting

• Outdoor signs must be IP65 waterproof-rated.

• Use UV-resistant cable covers to prevent sun damage.

• Ensure the power adapter is weatherproofed or kept inside.

• For windy locations, use extra anchor points or steel cable support.

💡 Pro Tip: Tape a paper cutout the same size as your sign on the wall first—it helps you visualize placement before committing.

Step 3: Gather Your Tools & Materials

Having the right tools ready will save you frustration.

For drilled installs (secure & permanent):

• Pencil & measuring tape

• Level (crooked neon = endless regret)

• Drill + correct drill bits (standard for drywall/wood, masonry for brick/concrete)

• Wall anchors & screws

• Optional: stand-offs for a floating look

For renters/no-drill installs (temporary & light signs only):

• Heavy-duty Command Strips or adhesive hooks

• Cleaning wipes (to prep the wall for better adhesion)

For a clean finish:

• Cable clips, cord covers, or Velcro ties

• Gloves (especially for glass neon signs to avoid fingerprints & damage)

Step 4: Mark & Prep the Wall

1. Hold the sign in place at the desired height (ask a friend to help for larger signs).

2. Mark through the pre-drilled holes on the sign’s acrylic backing onto the wall.

3. Check alignment with a level. A slightly crooked neon sign will bug you forever, so take an extra minute here.

4. Choose your wall prep based on the surface:

• Drywall/Plaster: Drill small pilot holes, then insert wall anchors.

• Wood Studs: Drill pilot holes slightly smaller than your screws for a snug fit.

• Brick/Concrete: Use a hammer drill + masonry anchors.

• Tile/Glass Walls: Use a diamond-tip drill bit, go slow, and avoid cracking.

Pro Tip: For brick, try to drill into the mortar lines rather than the bricks themselves—it’s easier and less damaging.

Step 5: Secure the Sign

Now it’s time to actually mount your neon sign. There are two main approaches depending on your wall type and sign weight.

Most Secure Methods (Best for Glass & Heavy Signs)

• Screws + Anchors → The standard, solid choice for drywall, plaster, or wood.

• Stand-offs → Creates a sleek “floating” look, holding the sign slightly off the wall.

• Ceiling Chains/Cables → Ideal for oversized signs or a suspended look in commercial spaces.

No-Drill Methods (Lightweight LED Signs Only)

• Heavy-Duty Command Strips → Work well for LED signs under ~5 lbs on smooth, clean surfaces.

• Adhesive Hooks or Velcro Strips → Easy to reposition and remove later.

⚠️ Important: Adhesives won’t hold on textured walls or heavy signs. Don’t risk it with glass neon or anything over ~5 lbs.

For Very Large or Commercial Signs

• Anything over ~15 lbs may need metal brackets or a stud-mounted frame.

• For storefronts, you may need local permits for exterior signage.

• Heavy-duty chain mounts or even a steel support frame might be required for ceiling suspensions.

• Consider hiring a licensed electrician if the sign hardwires into your building.

Step 6: Plug It In & Manage the Cords

Neon signs look best when cords aren’t dangling everywhere.

• Plug into the nearest outlet.

• Use cable clips to secure the cord along the wall.

• For a cleaner finish, use a paintable cord cover that blends into your wall.

• If you’re going for a minimal look, consider routing the cord behind furniture or baseboards.

How to Hang A Neon Sign with Chains or Wires

If you’re going for a floating look or mounting a large commercial sign, chains or steel wires are a great option.

1. Find strong ceiling points → Always anchor into ceiling joists or use heavy-duty ceiling anchors if joists aren’t available.

2. Attach the chains or wires → Many signs have pre-drilled hanging holes. Secure the chain/wire through them.

3. Level it carefully → Adjust the chain length evenly so the sign hangs straight.

4. Secure the power cord → Use clips or cable ties along the chain to keep cords neat.

💡 Best for: big signs in bars, cafés, or retail spaces, where wall drilling isn’t ideal or you want a suspended effect.

Quick Safety Checklist You Shouldn’t Skip

✅ Always unplug the sign before handling or mounting.
✅ Check the weight limit of your mounting method—never guess.
✅ Don’t overtighten screws (you can crack the acrylic backing).
✅ Keep fragile glass signs away from high-traffic areas where they could be bumped.
✅ Avoid damp areas unless your sign is outdoor-rated (look for IP65 or IP67 waterproofing).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

❌ Sign looks crooked? → Loosen, adjust with a level, and retighten.
❌ Cord looks messy? → Use adhesive cord covers or run it behind nearby furniture.
❌ Sign flickers after mounting? → Check the power adapter or try another outlet.
❌ Adhesive failed? → Your sign is too heavy for a no-drill solution—switch to screws.

Renter-Friendly Tips to Hang a Neon Sign

If you want a glowing sign without losing your security deposit:

• Stick to LED neon signs—they’re lightweight and easier to remove.

• Use removable adhesive strips like heavy-duty Command Strips for a no-drill option.

• How to remove without wall damage: Warm the adhesive with a hairdryer, then pull the tab straight down (never out toward you).

• Avoid textured or dusty walls—adhesive won’t stick properly.

Quick Cord Management Tips

A beautiful neon sign can look messy if the cord dangles awkwardly. Here’s how to tidy it up:

• Cable clips → Small adhesive clips keep the cord flat against the wall.

• Cord covers → Paintable raceways hide the wire for a cleaner look.

• Route behind furniture → If possible, place the outlet behind a table, shelf, or bar to conceal the plug.

• For a pro finish → Use an in-wall power kit to hide the wire completely (requires some DIY or an electrician).

For outdoor signs, always use weatherproof cord covers to protect from rain and sun damage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hanging Neon Signs

Can I hang a neon sign on a brick wall?

Yes, but you’ll need a hammer drill, masonry bits, and proper anchors to keep it secure. It’s usually easier (and less damaging) to drill into the mortar lines rather than the brick itself. Adhesive strips generally won’t hold well on rough brick, so for anything heavier than a very small LED sign, drilling is the best option.

Can I hang a neon sign without drilling?

Yes, but only for lightweight LED neon signs (under ~5 lbs) on smooth, clean walls. Heavy-duty Command Strips or adhesive hooks can work in renter-friendly setups, but they don’t stick well to textured walls or outdoor surfaces. For heavier glass signs, drilling is always safer and more secure.

Can I hang a neon sign outdoors?

Yes, but it must be waterproof-rated (look for IP65 or higher). Indoor neon signs can’t handle rain or humidity. For outdoor installs, also use weatherproof cord covers and secure the sign with extra anchors to prevent wind damage. If it’s for a storefront or business, check if local signage permits are required.

What about tile or glass walls?

You can, but take extra care. Use a diamond-tipped drill bit on low speed and place masking tape where you drill to avoid slipping. For very light LED signs, strong adhesive hooks may work temporarily, but for heavier signs, drilled stand-offs or anchors are safer.

What’s the best height to hang a neon sign?

For homes, eye level (around 5–6 feet) is ideal so it’s easily visible without dominating the room. In businesses like cafés or bars, you might go slightly higher for better visibility from different angles. A simple trick is to tape a paper template of the sign on the wall first to see how it looks before mounting.

Final Thoughts

Hanging a neon sign might seem intimidating, but it’s simple once you know your sign type, wall surface, and weight.

• Heavy or glass signs? Go with screws & anchors for a permanent, safe install.

• Renting with a light LED sign? Adhesive strips can work—just follow the weight guidelines.

• Outdoors or large commercial signs? Use weatherproof-rated materials, stronger mounts, and consider a professional install.

• Want a pro look? Take time to plan cord management and placement before drilling.

If your sign is large, valuable, or fragile, consider hiring a professional installer. But for most home or small business setups, you can DIY it in under an hour.

Now flip the switch and enjoy the glow!