Are Neon Signs Waterproof? What You Need to Know Before Using Them Outdoors

If you’ve ever thought about hanging a neon sign outside. on your storefront, patio, or even backyard. You’ve probably asked the big question: Are neon signs waterproof? It’s a fair concern. After all, neon runs on electricity, and the last thing anyone wants is water mixing with high voltage.

In this guide, I’ll break it all down for you. clearly, simply, and with real-world know-how. So you’ll know exactly what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to neon outdoors.

Are Neon Signs Waterproof?

The quick answer is no. Traditional glass neon signs are not waterproof. They’re made with glass tubes filled with gas, connected to electrodes and high-voltage transformers. That setup isn’t meant to take on rain, splashes, or even heavy humidity. If water gets inside, it can cause short circuits, damage the tubes, or worse. create a real safety risk.

But don’t worry. It doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy neon outside. What you actually need to look for is the difference between indoor neon and outdoor-rated neon. Outdoor neon signs are built with protective housings, sealed enclosures, or sometimes even custom waterproof cases. And if you’re after that glowing look without the risk, LED neon flex is the modern go-to. It’s designed to be weather-resistant, energy-efficient, and way safer for outdoor use.

So, to put it simply:

• Indoor glass neon signs → not waterproof.
• Outdoor-rated neon or LED neon signs → yes, safe in rain when properly sealed.

Think of it like this: a regular neon sign is like a vintage record player: beautiful indoors, but you wouldn’t set it in the rain. For outdoors, you need the version made to handle the elements.

Waterproof vs. Weather-Resistant: What’s the Difference?

A lot of people mix these two up, and I don’t blame them. It sounds the same at first. But when it comes to neon, the difference really matters.

Waterproof means the sign can handle direct contact with water. like rain pouring down on it or even being washed with a hose. without failing. Traditional glass neon signs are not built this way.

Weather-resistant, on the other hand, means the sign is built to handle normal outdoor conditions: light rain, humidity, dust, and temperature changes. Outdoor neon signs or LED neon flex usually fall into this category. They’re sealed tight enough to resist the elements, but they’re not meant to be submerged in water or left in extreme conditions without any protection.

Here’s a simple way to think of it:

• Waterproof = can swim with it (not neon).
• Weather-resistant = can stand outside in the rain with a raincoat on (yes, if designed for it).

Most outdoor neon solutions today are weather-resistant, not 100% waterproof. And honestly, that’s all you really need for signs on a storefront, bar patio, or backyard wall.

Risks of Using Non-Waterproof Neon Signs Outside

Here’s the part people often overlook: using an indoor neon sign outdoors isn’t just about “maybe it won’t last long.” It can be downright risky.

• Electrical Hazards

Neon signs run on high voltage. If water seeps into the tubes or the transformer, it can cause short circuits. or worse, electric shocks. That’s why safety standards are so strict for outdoor signs.

• Damage to the Sign

Glass tubes don’t stand a chance against moisture. Rain, humidity, or even condensation can corrode the electrodes, weaken the wiring, and cause the gas inside to escape. Once that happens, your neon goes dark for good.

• Extra Maintenance Costs

A non-waterproof sign outside will fail much faster, which means repairs or replacements. And trust me, repairing neon glass isn’t cheap.

• Fire Risk

In rare cases, water and faulty wiring can lead to sparks. That’s why using non-waterproof neon outdoors is not just a durability issue. It’s a safety issue.

Bottom line: an indoor neon outside is like leaving your phone in the rain. It’s only a matter of time before it dies. and it might not go quietly.

How to Waterproof a Neon Sign

If you really want that neon glow outside, the key is protection. A regular indoor sign won’t survive on its own. But with the right setup, you can keep it shining safely.

• Choose Outdoor-Rated Signs

The easiest solution. Outdoor neon or LED neon flex signs are built with sealed housings, waterproof power supplies, and weather-resistant wiring. They’re made for rain, humidity, and dust.

• Use Protective Casings

If you already have a neon sign and want it outside, place it inside an acrylic or polycarbonate box. This shields the tubes from direct rain and moisture while still letting the glow shine through.

• Mount Under Cover

Installing a sign under an awning, roof, or patio cover adds another layer of protection. Even outdoor-rated signs last longer when not fully exposed to downpours.

• Check the IP Rating

For LED neon flex, look for an IP65 or higher rating. That number tells you how well the sign is sealed against dust and water. The higher the rating, the safer it is outdoors.

In short, if your neon is going outside, treat it like an investment. Either buy one designed for the weather or make sure it’s properly protected.

The Best Alternative: LED Neon Flex

Here’s the game-changer. LED neon flex. It looks just like traditional neon, but it’s built with flexible silicone tubing and LED lights inside instead of fragile glass and gas. And the best part? It’s usually waterproof and outdoor-ready.

Why people love it:

• Weatherproof by design – Most LED neon flex signs come sealed tight, with IP65 or higher ratings. That means rain, humidity, and dust won’t bother them.
• Safer – They run on low voltage, so no high-voltage transformers or shock risks.
• Durable – No glass tubes to crack. You can bend, cut, and shape them without breaking.
• Energy-efficient – Uses way less electricity than classic neon, which is great if you’re running it for hours every night.

Think of LED neon flex as the modern upgrade: you get the same glow, but without worrying about water damage or safety hazards. For anyone who wants neon outdoors. on a storefront, backyard, or patio. This is hands-down the smarter option.

Here’s a simple comparison table:

FAQs About Waterproof Neon Signs

Can neon signs get wet?

Traditional glass neon signs should never get wet. They aren’t waterproof, and exposure to water can damage the tubes, wiring, or transformer.

Can I put a neon sign in the bathroom?

Not unless it’s an LED neon flex sign with a waterproof rating (IP65 or higher). Bathrooms have high humidity and water splashes, which are unsafe for glass neon.

Can neon signs stay outside all year?

Only if they’re outdoor-rated or LED neon flex with weatherproofing. Standard indoor neon won’t survive long-term exposure.

What happens if a neon sign gets rained on?

If it’s indoor glass neon, water can cause it to short-circuit, break down quickly, or even create safety hazards. Outdoor-rated versions are sealed to prevent this.

Are LED neon signs waterproof?

Yes, most LED neon flex signs are designed to be waterproof or at least weather-resistant, depending on their IP rating. Always check before buying.

Conclusion

So, are neon signs waterproof? The quick answer is no. Traditional glass neon isn’t. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy neon outdoors. The key is choosing the right type: outdoor-rated neon or, even better, LED neon flex that’s built to handle rain, humidity, and everyday weather.

If you’re planning to put a sign outside, think safety first. A proper waterproof or weather-resistant sign will not only last longer but also save you money and stress down the line.

Bottom line: Neon can shine outdoors beautifully. You just need the right version for the job.