How to attach LED strip
LED strip helps to make the interior of the room creative. With the help of LED-backlighting, you can get original effects on the walls and ceiling. It is also used for zoning space, creating spot lighting in rooms and lighting furniture.
LED tape is popular for simple installation methods - you don’t need to be specially trained to figure out how to glue it. It is enough to determine a reliable method and have the tools. The most popular options among craftsmen are the use of adhesive tape, glue or liquid nails.
What can I glue the LED strip on: the choice of materials
There are 2 common ways to fix the LED strip on the ceiling, wall or other surface - double-sided tape and glue. In order for the backlight to hold securely and not peel off, it is worth thoroughly cleaning the surface of dirt. Regardless of the base material, it should be degreased.
As a fastener, it is better to use a special aluminum profile, which is suitable for mounting any tapes. The profile can be of different colors, and the smooth surface will serve as a reliable basis for fastening. But the method is the most expensive. A cable channel is used as an inexpensive alternative.
Special tape for mounting
Not all LED backlights are produced with a sticky layer on the reverse side in order to fix it on the ceiling or wall if necessary. Some models are produced in a silicone tube, which provides protection against mechanical damage and contact with moisture. The only drawback is the inconvenience during the installation process.
The tape of the closed type is designed for mounting with special clamps. But to install the backlight on glass or a similar surface, the method is not suitable. There are 2 exits. The first is the purchase of backlight with a sticky layer. To install, you just need to peel off the paper from the sticky part and install the tape on the cleaned surface.
When there is no adhesive layer on the tape, you need to purchase a thin double-sided tape. First you need to fix the tape, and then install a backlight on it if you work alone. If there is an assistant, it is more convenient to first fix the adhesive tape on the tape.
When using this mounting method, remember that the diodes heat up during operation. This negatively affects the quality of adhesive tape adhesion to the surface, especially if it is glossy.
Adhesive Tips
In the store you will not be able to find a special glue that is designed for mounting LED strip, as it does not exist. Therefore, you will have to take into account the reviews of people who have already encountered such work.The most reliable options are:
- "Titan" - liquid nails. Manufactured from a heavy duty rubber compound. This adhesive is widely used in construction and installation works. Well suited for mounting LED strip on stone, metal, ceramics, plastic and wood. When the composition dries, it will not be susceptible to high temperature. There are varieties of liquid nails. For example, glue "Moment Installation MV-50". Used for chipboard, plastic, styrofoam, gypsum, foam, metal, chipboard;
- hot glue gun. Hot glue is one of the most reliable ways to mount LEDs. With it, the backlight can be installed on a surface made of metal, ceramics, plastic and wood. The only thing that is required from a specialist is a thorough cleaning and degreasing of the surface;
- universal glue "Super Moment". It is a cyanoacrylate-based composition that is resistant to high temperatures and moisture. With it, you can fasten different types of plastic in a second. Also well suited for mounting the tape on metal, rubber, wood and ceramic surfaces.
Some craftsmen are negative about the idea of mounting the backlight on glue, as they believe that it can melt at high temperatures. Glue does not remove heat, which is the main provocateur of overheating. Perhaps it is, but only if we are talking about powerful LED strips. If a cyanoacrylate-based adhesive is used, it must be in the form of a gel, as it instantly spreads, dries and absorbs into the surface.
aluminum tape
The method with mounting on aluminum tape will be appropriate if a powerful backlight is installed, and there is little space on the surface for installing a special profile. Using glue will not solve the problem of heat conduction. Using double-sided tape can only do harm, as it will aggravate the heating due to its thermal insulation properties. Therefore, it is recommended to use aluminum.
This tape is made to seal ventilation ducts. But in some cases, it is indispensable when installing the backlight. The method has a number of disadvantages, so the masters recommend using it only in extreme cases. After installation, the aluminum layer will serve as a heat sink, and glue can be used to fasten the bases.
Step by step sticker instructions
If you decide to mount the backlight on double-sided tape, you should perform the following steps:
- Before installation, wash the surface, wait until it dries, degrease. If it is not suitable for installation on adhesive tape or glue, you will have to install a special profile.
- Sticking adhesive tape on a surface or tape.
- Setting the backlight.
- Full length alignment.
- If the tape is installed evenly, press it firmly against the surface to ensure a secure grip.
If the backlight is installed on the adhesive, it is not necessary to apply it in a continuous strip along the entire length, this can be done pointwise at intervals of 5-7 centimeters. Gradually, the tape is glued to each point until it dries.
Working with uneven surfaces
Installing the tape on a curved surface will not be a problem, as it bends well and for installation, follow the procedure described above. But if we are talking about porous or ribbed surfaces, it is recommended to prepare by installing special even plastic or metal strips.
It is better to purchase a bar made of aluminum. The material will provide a reliable grip, as well as perform the function of a radiator to remove accumulated heat. If it is not possible to purchase a profile, the surface is primed and covered with a layer of varnish or paint to improve adhesion with adhesive tape or glue.
How to avoid mistakes
The main mistake that a beginner can make is installing a powerful LED strip without a profile. This will lead to overheating and failure of all LEDs. The backlight should not be mounted in this way on a cabinet, ceiling or walls.
Other errors include the following:
- using a construction stapler for fasteners. This can lead to mechanical damage to the LEDs;
- gluing the tape with glue directly to the aluminum profile. This will cause a short circuit;
- the use of a plastic profile from the cable channel. This does not provide heat dissipation, so after a while all the LEDs will fail;
- insufficient cleaning of the surface from dirt. Because of this, the tape will not last long and will fall off.
Illustrative video example: How to fix the LED strip to the ceiling around the perimeter.
What to do if the tape is peeled off
If the tape is peeled off and at the same time is under the profile, it is enough to remove the diffuser and carefully glue it so as not to destroy the entire structure.If the backlight has come off almost completely, it is better to remove it, clean the surface and install it in the same or another way. The base should be well cleaned of the remaining adhesive.
To prevent this from happening again, it is recommended to use a better glue or tape. Masters prefer scotch brand "ZM". The brand is a leader among manufacturers of adhesive mixtures.
