There is a lot of confusion over whether or not you can put electrical tape over LED strip lights. People seem to be unsure if it will damage the light strips or if it will cause any other problems. In this article, we will clear up the confusion and give you the answer once and for all.
The short answer is yes, you can put electrical tape over LED strip lights if you’re trying to secure a loose end or cover up a damaged section. However, using electrical tape as your only method of securing strip lights is not the best idea.
Keep reading to learn more about why electrical tape isn’t the best option and other options.
Downsides To Using Electrical Tape Over Led Strip Lights
1. Electrical Tape Leaves Behind Residue
If you’ve ever used electrical tape before, then you know that it can leave behind a sticky residue. This is because electrical tapes have adhesives that are designed to hold strong, even in extreme conditions.
Unfortunately, this also means that the tape leaves behind residue that can be difficult to remove once it’s been applied.
Not only will the residue be difficult to remove, but it will attract dust and dirt. Over time, the residue, together with the dust it attracts, will cause the LED strip light to become discolored, eventually damaging the light strip.
2. It Can Be Difficult to Remove
Another downside to using electrical tape over LED strip lights is that they can be difficult to remove. The adhesive on the tape can become quite strong, making it hard to peel off without damaging the light strip or surface.
While many online resources will tell you to use a heat gun or hair dryer to loosen the adhesive, this can cause even more damage, especially to your LED lights.
The heat from the hair dryer can damage the plastic casing on the LED strip light, causing it to become brittle and eventually crack.
So, if you decide to use electrical tape, remove it carefully and slowly to avoid damaging your LED lights.
3. It’s Not the Most Aesthetically Pleasing Option
Let’s face it, electrical tape is not the most attractive option. If you’re trying to create a sleek and modern look, covering your LED strip lights with electrical tape will not give you the desired effect, especially if the strip lights are not entirely hidden.
In fact, it’s likely to make your space look messy and unprofessional. If you’re looking for a more polished look, it’s best to avoid using electrical tape altogether.
I will later talk about some of the best alternatives you can use that will give you a much more polished and professional look.
4. It’s Not a Permanent Solution
Electrical tape is not a permanent solution. Instead, it’s designed to be temporary, which means that it will eventually lose its stickiness and fall off.
This is especially true if you have humid conditions or if the temperature fluctuates often. If you live in an area with high humidity, it’s best to avoid using electrical tape as it will fall off much quicker.
The same goes for if you plan on using your LED strip lights outdoors. The changing temperatures will cause the electrical tape to weaken and eventually fall off.
Tips On How To Use Electrical Tape Over Led Strip Lights
If you do decide to use electrical tape over LED strip lights, there are a few things you can do so you get the best results;
Be Sure To Clean The Area Well Before Applying The Tape
One of the most important things you need to do is ensure the area is clean before applying the tape. Any dirt or residue on the surface will prevent the tape from sticking properly.
To clean the surface, simply use a lint-free cloth and some rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol will also help to remove any grease or dirt that could prevent the tape from adhering to the surface.
Make Sure The Surface Is Dry
It’s also important to ensure the area is dry before applying the electrical tape. If the surface is wet, the adhesive on the tape will not work as well, and it’s more likely to fall off.
Make Sure The It’s A Hidden Spot
Electrical tape will not give you the most pleasing aesthetic results. If you’re looking for a more polished look, make sure to apply the tape in a hidden spot. This way, even if the electrical tape does fall off, it won’t be as noticeable.
Use Multiple Pieces of Tape
If you’re worried about the electrical tape not staying on, you can always use multiple pieces of tape. This will help to ensure that the tape stays on for a longer period of time.
Use A Strong Adhesive Tape
There are some types of electrical tape that have stronger adhesion than others. If you’re worried about the tape not staying on, be sure to choose a tape with a strong adhesive. This way, you can be sure that the tape will stay on for a longer period of time.
Use Caution When Removing The Tape
When it’s time to remove the electrical tape, be sure to do so carefully and slowly. If you pull too hard, you run the risk of damaging the surface or the LED light strip.
To avoid this, simply grab each end of the electrical tape and slowly peel it off. If the tape is stuck on, you can use a lint-free cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol to help loosen the adhesive.
In some other cases, using a hair dryer with the lowest heat setting and a good distance between the hair dryer and led strip light can do the trick if you’re very careful.
Better Alternatives To Using Electrical Tape Over Led Strip Lights
If you’re looking for a more polished and professional look, some alternatives you can use will give you better results.
Zip Ties
Zip ties are a great option if you’re looking for something easy to install and remove. Simply thread the zip tie through the hole in the LED strip light and tighten it down.
You can also use zip ties to create a custom design. This is especially helpful if you want to add some character to your space. This will, however, work if there is something to tie the zip ties to.
Double-Sided Tape
Double-sided tape is a great option if you’re looking for something that’s more permanent. This type of tape is designed to adhere to both smooth and textured surfaces.
It’s also important to note that double-sided tape can be difficult to remove, so be sure you’re happy with the placement before applying it.
An example of a good double-sided tape you can use is the Double-Sided Gorilla Tape.
Adhesive Clips
Adhesive clips are one of the most popular methods for attaching LED strip lights. These clips are designed to grip the strip light tightly, holding it in place even on smooth surfaces. Many adhesive clips also come with a built-in support leg, which helps to keep the strip light straight and prevent it from sagging over time.
To use adhesive clips, simply peel off the backing and press the clip onto your chosen surface. For best results, make sure to clean the surface before attaching the clip with rubbing alcohol. Once the adhesive has had time to set, you can then attach your LED strip light.
One advantage of using adhesive clips is that they’re very easy to install and remove. This makes them ideal for use in temporary displays or for 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.
Each of these alternatives will give you a more polished look and be much more durable than electrical tape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using electrical tape over LED strip lights is not the best option if you’re looking for a more polished look. However, if you’re looking for something that’s quick and easy to install, it’s an option worth considering. Be sure to use a strong adhesive tape and exercise caution when removing the tape to avoid damage.
Alternatives such as zip ties, double-sided tape, and adhesive clips are also worth considering for a more polished look. Whichever method you choose, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. Thanks for reading!
We hope you found this article helpful. For more tips and tricks, be sure to check out our blog. And as always, feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions. We’re here to help! Have a great day!