Neon
Neon is glass tubes  filled with different gases.  The glass tubes are  electrically charged causing these gases to light up.  The glass tubing can  be bent into any shape using heat.
Iluminated Signs
Illuminated Signs are signs that are made with lights inside them. The light source can be flourescent bulbs or neon.  These signs can be manufactured  as simple rectangular boxes or as  much  more complicated  shapes like the gorilla seen here.  
Swing Signs
Swing Signs are signs that are hung from a bar attached to  a storefront facade. These signs have 2 faces and can be seen from either direction when traveling down the street. They can be illuminated or non-illuminated and can be built to any shape and  size.
Upright Signs
Upright signs are double-sided signs that usually read up and down. They can be illuminated or non-illuminated. Uprights are good for visibility and send a quick message to your customer (usually with one or two words). These signs can be made into many different shapes (like the Paul Signs upright sign or the Checks Cashed upright both shown here) or just a simple rectangular shape. They can be manufactured in many different forms and materials including neon, lightboxes, wood, metal  etc.
Awnings
Awnings are signs that project out from your storefront. They are manufactured with metal tubing which is bent into a frame and then material (such as vinyl, fabric or metal) is stretched over or attached to the steel frame. These signs can be illuminated or non-illuminated. Awnings can be manufactured in many different shapes with cuts in them to accomodate any storefront. They are customer friendly by creating an "umbrella" on your storefront to protect your clientele from the elements.
Wood Signs
Wood can be manufactured into many different types of signs. These signs can be 3 dimensional with engraving or painted and lettered with vinyl graphics applied to the face. These type of signs are very durable and stand up well to the elements. Usually wood is used to give an "antique" or "classic" feel to the storefront.