Among LED Light users, one issue is seen quite often these days, which is falling LEDs from surfaces. That’s why every LED user must know what are the things responsible for them to fall down, how to keep led lights from falling, and how to stick them properly. There are a couple of tools you can use to hold your LED firm to a surface for example strong double-sided tape, mounting channels, foam backing tape, adhesive clips, and many more.
Why Do LED Lights Falling Down
Many of us do not know the proper way how to stick LED Lights. This is why their lights keep on falling down. Take care of the things mentioned below to keep your LED lights from falling-
1. Heat: Heat is the primary reason why LED strip glue softens quickly and the strip falls down. You may encounter this especially in the summer season or if you purchase cheap and low-quality LEDs which get hot quickly.
2. Uneven Surface: If the surface is not smooth or there are big gaps where there is no place for the strip to stick to. Your LED lights will fall down in no time. So make sure to avoid those uneven surfaces while installing the light.
3. Facing Downwards: If the LED strips are on their side or on the ceiling facing downwards, then eventually they will fall down due to gravity. So use extra strong double-sided tape while sticking those LEDs
4. Moist: If the surface is wet, even if a little bit, the stickiness will decline sooner than expected. Make sure the place is dry before sticking your LED.
5. Dust: Dust also makes your LED lights fall down quickly. It is a must to ensure the surface is clean before attaching your lights to the surface.
6. Quality: Low-quality double-sided tape are not long-lasting. Make sure to buy a quality one.
How to Keep LED Lights from Falling
If you install led strip lights and want your LED lights to stay firm on a surface for a long time or permanently, use any of the tools mentioned below-
1. Use Double-Sided Tape
This is the best type of led tape to be used if you want to hold your strip LED or small led lights in one place. The suppliers may provide these tapes along with the lights. But if you don’t get any, we recommend you purchase mounting tape with a double-sided VHB (very high bond) rating of 2 lbs per square inch or greater. If you plan to put outdoor LED strip lights, make sure to verify that your adhesive tape is waterproof.
Strong double sided mounting tape, 33 feet length, 0.39 inch width, 0.025 inch thickness.
2. Use LED Strip Mounting Channel
LED strip lights can be mounted on this aluminum channel at a reasonable price and with the finest possible professional appearance. This track, which is available in.5 and full-meter lengths, can support LED strips with a maximum diameter of 10mm. As the strips stick to the aluminum track, this technique still depends on the adhesive backing. An excellent connection is created between aluminum and glue. The track is then secured in place by clips that mount to the desired surface.
Muzata 6-Pack LED Strip Mounting Channel
3.3ft/1Meter 8x17mm U Shape LED Aluminum Channel System with Cover, End Caps and Mounting Clips Aluminum Profile for LED Strip Light.
3. Use Foam Backing Tape
This tape is great for splashproof LED Lights. It weighs a bit more than normal tape. It is also ideal for areas that are not completely even or not as clean, as the foam tape will stick better than the standard 3M backings.
Yotache High Density Adhesive Foam Tape
2 Rolls 1″ W X 3/4″, Widely Used as Weatherstrip, Gasket Seal, Anti-Vibration, Anti-Collision, Shockproof, Furniture Protective, 13 Ft Length (2 X 6.5 Ft Each)
4. Use Zip Ties
If you’re searching for something simple to install and take off, zip ties are a fantastic choice. Simply insert the zip tie through the LED light’s hole and pull it tight.
Heavy Duty 8 Inch Premium Plastic Wire Ties with 50 Pounds Tensile Strength, Self-Locking Black Nylon Tie Wraps for Indoor and Outdoor
5. Use Adhesive Clips
One of the most widely used methods for mounting LED lights is the use of adhesive clips. These clips are made to firmly grasp the light, holding it in position even on slick surfaces. A built-in support leg is another feature of many adhesive clips that helps to maintain the light straight and prevents it from sagging with time.
They are very easy to install and remove. This makes them ideal for LED lights that need to be moved around often. Adhesive clips also don’t leave behind any residue, making them perfect for use on delicate surfaces.
Damage-Free Hanging Light Clips with Adhesive Strips, Wall Clips for Hanging Outdoor Christmas Decorations.
6. Use Mounting Putty
Another alternative to tapes is Mounting Putty. This is also described as a moveable, versatile alternative to nails, glue, or staples. Use your hands to mold a of putty to the desired shape and then push it onto the back of your LEDs.
Battery Operated LED Pool Lights
Waterproof multi-color RGB LED Pool Light. Available in 13 static colors and 4 dynamic color-changing modes.
7. Use Cable Ties
You can also use cable ties to affix your LED to an object. Use clear ties to avoid disrupting the LED’s light output, You can also find them in any local stationary shops.
8. Use Hot Glue
In case none of the methods mentioned above worked for you and you still wondering how to keep LED Lights from falling down, you can also use Hot glue. Hot glue doesn’t contain the same harsh chemicals as super glue, which makes it a much safer option and will not damage your LED. But pay special attention to the temperature of the glue.
9. Use Staple
You can also staple your LED strip to a surface, but make sure the wires of the staples cross over the LED. It is not advisable to pierce the LED strip because doing so will be harmful. There shouldn’t be any issues if your staples are large enough to span the LEDs like an archway. However, there is a danger that you could harm the internal circuitry and prevent some of the lights from working if your staples are thinner and have to pierce through the LED strip.
10. Strip Light Mounting Brackets
You can use specially designed mounting brackets for light strips. The only downside is that you need to drill the hole. So brackets will work well if you plan to have your light strips mounted permanently.
Griver Strip Light Mounting Brackets
Sufficient 100 pcs mounting bracket and 102 pcs screws, help mount on different materials of surfaces without falling worries.
There you go. That’s how to keep LED Lights from falling.
How To Stick LED Light Strips
Sticking LED light strips to a surface is very easy, only if you know how to do it properly.
Step 1: Get Measurements
Measuring the space where you want to attach the lights is the first step. Use a ruler or a tape measure to complete this; make no educated assumptions.
Step 2: Adjust the Size
If necessary, cut your LED strip to the right length. A good knife or pair of scissors is required for this. Cut only on the designated cutting lines. The circuitry may be harmed and some of the LEDs may become inoperable if you cut your strip improperly. If you cut your LED strips, keep in mind that you’ll probably need to solder a new connector cable.
Step 3: Getting the Surface Ready
On smooth, clean surfaces, the sticky backing of LED strips performs best. The adhesive’s interaction with the texture is restricted and cannot form a strong connection if grease or dust are found in the path.
You can stop it from happening by vigorously brushing the area with a cloth that has been dampened with warm water or alcohol. When you’re done, wipe the area dry with a paper towel or lint-free cloth.
Step 4: Take the Adhesive Backing Off
At one end of the strip, remove the plastic sticker to reveal the adhesive backing. To stop airborne dust or other particles from adhering to the glue, only peel a tiny bit at a time.
Step 5: Position and Press
Place the LED strip in the target place and firmly press it down. Pushing, positioning, and peeling should be continued until the entire length has adhered. Take your time with this.
Step 6: Switch On the Lights
Plug the connector cable into your power supply and turn your LED strip lights on. There you go. To keep your lights firm in a single place, use the double-sided tape we have mentioned in the ‘How to keep LED lights from falling’ section.
How to Prevent LED Strip Lights from Falling
Even if you have installed your led strip lights securely, you may still encounter some issues that may cause them to fall down over time. Here are some more tips on how to prevent led strip lights from falling:
- Avoid high temperatures: High temperatures can cause the adhesive to melt and lose its stickiness. You should avoid placing your led strip lights near heat sources such as stoves, ovens, heaters, or direct sunlight. You should also use heat-resistant led strips if you want to install them in hot areas such as kitchens or bathrooms.
- Avoid humidity and water: Humidity and water can also damage the adhesive and the strip itself. You should avoid installing your led strip lights in damp or wet places such as bathrooms, basements, or outdoors. You should also use waterproof led strips if you want to install them in such places. You should also make sure that the power supply and the controller are protected from water as well.
- Avoid dust and dirt: Dust and dirt can also reduce the adhesion of the tape or the adhesive. You should clean the surface regularly with a damp cloth or a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or dirt that may accumulate over time. You should also avoid touching the tape or the adhesive with your fingers as the oil from your skin may affect the stickiness.
- Avoid pulling or stretching the strip: Pulling or stretching the strip may cause the tape or the adhesive to peel off or the strip to break. You should handle the strip gently and avoid applying too much force or tension when installing or removing it. You should also avoid bending or twisting the strip too much as this may damage the LEDs or the circuit. If you need to bend the strip, you should do it along the marked bending lines, which are usually every 3 or 6 LEDs.
- Use additional support: If you want to ensure your led strip lights stay in place for a long time, you can use additional support such as hooks, clips, channels, or nails. These can provide extra grip and stability to the strip and prevent it from falling or sagging. You can use them along with the tape or the adhesive or instead of them, depending on your preference and the surface type.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I use super glue to stick led strip lights?
Super glue should not be used on materials like plastic, polystyrene, or silk, as is a little-known truth. This is due to the chemical process that allows the glue to quickly heat and cool as it solidifies. But over time, this interaction causes some materials to deteriorate. In essence, superglue has the ability to do irreparable harm to LED strips made of plastic.
Can you use tape to hold up LED lights?
You can, but their stickiness runs out too fast. Besides, you may overheat the light if you put tape over the LED chip.
Why won’t my LED lights stick?
Prior to mounting the LED strips, it is important to thoroughly clean the surface to remove any debris, grease, water, or other liquids. Allow time for the cleaning agent, such as rubbing alcohol or methylated spirits, to dry before using. To properly clean the surface, you must use a dry, lint-free cloth.
Final Words
You can choose any tool to stick your LED to a surface and make sure they don’t fall depending on your settings. We recommend you get those tools along with your LED lights from trusted stores/manufacturers so that the quality doesn’t get compromised. Also, ensure your safety first when you are working on the lights. Pay special attention to whether the switch is on or not. Finally, keep the surface (where you set the LED) clean, dry, and away from direct sunlight or other flammable objects.
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