When buying outdoor lightboxes, be sure the lightbox you are buying addresses the unique challenges faced in an outdoor environment. Questions you should ask are:
Is the lightbox waterproof?
Is there a way for water that inadvertently gets into the lightbox to get out?
Is the lightbox constructed in a manner consistent with UL criteria for outdoor lightboxes?
Is the graphic protected from moisture or abrasion damage?
Is the lightbox secure? Can it be locked?
Is the exterior finish of the lightbox resistant to damage and weathering?
Is the lightbox waterproof?
All inside edges of the lightbox should be welded or caulked to keep moisture out. The clear glass or acrylic face should be sealed to the door frame with caulk or a gasket. There should be a seal between the door (or face) and the lightbox chassis. If there are vents on the outside of the lightbox, they should have downward sloping slats to keep rain out.
Is there a way for water to get out of the lightbox?
Drainage holes should be drilled at the lowest point of the inside of the lightbox.
Is the lightbox constructed in a manner consistent with UL criteria for outdoor lightboxes?
There should be no exposed electrical connections or ballasts inside the lightbox. The lightbox should pass a waterproof test which simulates heavy rainfall. All exterior switches should be waterproof. No electrical components should be within ___” of the bottom of the lightbox. The lightbox should be set up for a hardwire installation, not plug in connections.
Is the graphic protected from moisture or abrasion damage?
At DSA|Phototech, we mount the graphic at least 1” behind the clear face. This space allows condensation to dissipate, and does not allow the graphic to rub against condensation which forms on the inside of the clear face. If the outdoor lightbox you are looking at sandwiches the graphic between the clear face and white diffuser, you will quickly damage the graphic unless it is vinyl with waterproof inks. Even then, condensation can form between the graphic and the clear face, obscuring the graphic image.
Is the lightbox secure? Can it be locked?
To prevent theft or vandalism, your outdoor lightbox should be lockable with locks or security screws. At DSA|Phototech we use heavy duty locks to secure the cabinet.
Is the exterior finish of the lightbox resistant to damage and weathering?
At DSA|Phototech our outdoor lightboxes are powdercoated or anodized, providing a tough, weather resistant finish. Outdoor lightboxes with painted finishes are more susceptible to chipping and peeling.
DSA|Phototech outdoor lightboxes meet all of the above criteria, are UL listed, and come with a standard 5 year warranty. To find out more about DSA|Phototech lightboxes and capabilities visit our website: www.lightboxes.com, or call us at 1-800-327-3723.