Bleed-through is a phenomenon in lighting and signage where unwanted light shines through a surface , making the final result look less polished and professional. This can occur with:
🔹 Light boxes and billboards – When the background is too thin or not properly shielded, causing the internal light source to shine through.
🔹 LED Strips & Neon Lighting – When LEDs are too bright and become visible through a diffused panel or housing.
🔹 Backlit printing – For example, on displays where black or dark ink is not completely opaque, causing a lighter haze to appear.
🔹 Projection and Displays – When unwanted light leakage affects the contrast or sharpness of the image.
Causes of Bleed Through
🔸 Thin or wrong materials – Insufficient diffusion or coverage in a surface.
🔸 Too bright light sources – LEDs or fluorescent lamps with too high brightness without correct light management.
🔸 Incorrect mounting or positioning – With neon or LED lighting, poor mounting can cause hot spots or light leakage .
🔸 Poor coating or ink coverage – In signage and print work, opaque ink may not be thick enough, allowing light to shine through.
How do you prevent Bleed Through?
✅ Use a good diffuser – Matte or opal glass, acrylic or polycarbonate reduces directly visible LED hotspots.
✅ Add a reflective backing – A backing with white or reflective material helps minimize light leakage.
✅ Adjust light intensity and color temperature – Light that is too bright can cause shine-through, so dimmable LEDs or the correct light distribution can help.
✅ Double or thicker coatings in print work – In signage or print work, a second layer of ink or film can help block light through dark areas.
✅ Correct mounting of LEDs – LED strips can be better placed spread out or behind additional light diffusion panels.
Bleed Through in various applications
📌 Light Boxes & Signage – Consider the thickness and opacity of materials.
📌 Architectural lighting – Good diffusion prevents uneven light patterns.
📌 Interior Lighting (Trimless Spotlights, LED Strips) – Use indirect lighting or diffusers to create an even glow.
📌 Printing & Displays – Special backlit films and additional layers of ink can reduce light shine through.
Conclusion
Bleed Through is a common problem in lighting and signage, but with the right materials and techniques it can be prevented or reduced .