This is a question that comes up a lot because of the way LED strip lights have increased dramatically in recent years. They are used to create interesting effects for homes, bars, and even restaurants!
But can you put led strip lights on every type of surface? To be more precise, can you put led strip lights on metal? Read on for more information about this topic, including some FAQs that will help you find your answer.
Can you put LED strip lights on metal? If the metal is galvanized steel, then you can put led strip lights on them as long as the surface is clean, dry, and you have the right type of adhesive.
You can also put led strip lights on aluminum, chrome-plated steel, and other metal surfaces that are painted. But if it’s a metallic surface that’s not painted, then you will have problems with the led strip lights.
The term metal can mean a number of different things. It could be copper, aluminum, stainless steel, or any other type of metal that has been shaped into a form for use in construction.
If you are looking to install LED strip lights on metal then there are some considerations that will help you determine if this is possible and how it should be done.
To Use Led Strip Lights On Metal Here Are A Few Things To Consider;
- Metal Surface Must Be Rust-Free
- Make Sure Use Your Led Strip Lights Are Rated For Metal Surfaces
- Type Of Metal Surface
1. Type Of Metal Surface
Types Of Metal You Can Put Led Strip Lights On
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel is the most common type of metal that you can put led strip lights on. This surface has an additional coating to protect it from rusting.
So long as the surface is clean and dry, you can put led strip lights on galvanized steel without any problems.
Aluminum
Aluminum is another metal that you can put led strip lights on. It has the advantage of being lightweight and relatively cheap to purchase – which is why you’re likely to this type of metal in your space.
But it can be prone to corrosion. That’s why you should always take extra care when putting led strip lights on aluminum so that the surface is clean and dry.
Chrome Plated Steel And Other Metal Surfaces That Are Painted
You can put led strip lights on chrome-plated steel and other metal surfaces that are painted.
But the led strip lights will only stick to a clean surface, so make sure you wipe down the surface before you install the led strip lights.
Type Of Metal You CANNOT Put Led Strip Lights On
- Metallic Materials That Aren’t Painted
Metallic materials that aren’t painted are typically made out of copper, brass, or other metals. You can usually tell this because the metal isn’t a uniform color, but rather has a golden or brown tint to it.
You can also not put led strip lights on any metal that is in the process of corroding. The corrosion will have stripped away the protective coating from the surface, which defeats the purpose of putting led strip lights on it.
You need to keep the surface clean and dry, otherwise, you run the risk of corrosion happening again after you install the led strip lights.
The bottom line is: you can’t put led strip lights on metallic materials that aren’t painted. If the surface isn’t clean and dry, the led strip lights won’t adhere properly.
2. Type Of Led Strip Light Adhesive
It is important to use led strip lights that are designed specifically for metal surfaces. These lights come with a special type of adhesive and they can be glued directly to the metal.
This type of adhesive is different from standard LED strip lights because it allows them to withstand water and humidity.
You will need to ensure that your strip light is rated for use on a metal surface through the product description or through the manufacturer’s website.
If you want to mount the led strip lights on metal, then there is a special type of tape that can be used for this purpose. You will need to use a metal tape that comes with adhesive backs and is compatible with LED strip lights.
You can find this tape in adhesive metal rolls and it is perfect for the job! The tape sticks to almost any surface, including metals. With a little bit of this tape, you can easily attach the led strip lights to a metal surface.
The back of the LED strip lights will be covered in adhesive tape. You simply need to peel off the protective backing on the metal strip that you are using and press it into place. Then, you can stick the lights onto it.
If you need to remove them, it is possible that they will leave a residue on your surface. While this type of residue can be scraped off with a razor blade, it is not recommended.
So all in all, you do need to ensure that the led strip lights you are using have a high-quality adhesive. A low-quality strip light may not stick to your surface, which means that it will fall off and you will need to replace it.
3. Metal Surface Must Be Rust-Free
It is possible to put LED strip lights on metal. However, you do need to ensure that the surface is clean and free from rust or other contaminants.
If there happens to be rust on the metal, it is important to sand down and remove all of that before you start. Also, you should paint or finish the surface of the metal before the installation process begins.
If there are any contaminants on the surface then this will cause damage to your lights and you will need to replace them much sooner than normal.
The Pros Of Putting Led Strip Lights To Metal Surfaces
- Led strip lights work well with both indoor and outdoor metal surfaces.
- They are easy to install and you don’t need any tools.
- You can use led strip lights to give metal surfaces a unique look.
- They produce great results in a variety of lighting conditions.
- They can be used in a wide range of applications, including lighting for signs and vehicles.
- They have great color rendering capabilities, but they are often limited by the color temperature of your lights.
The Cons Of Putting Led Strip Lights To Metal Surfaces
- The adhesive on led strip lights can only handle a certain amount of weight.
- LED strip lights have been known to peel away from metal surfaces when they get hot.
- The type of adhesive that is used for metal surfaces may not be compatible with all types of LED strip lights.
- LED strip lights may not work well in high temperature environments as some metals easily conduct heat.
- LED strip lights may not be durable enough to hold up in outdoor metal environments.
- You will need a different type of adhesive if you want to use led strip lights on metal surfaces.
FAQs
Q: Can Led strip lights be used on a metal boat?
A: Yes, led strip lights can be installed on boats. Since most led strip lights are waterproof, water, or damp rater, you do not have to worry about them being damaged by water.
Q: Can Led strip lights be cut?
A: Yes, led strip lights can be cut especially when you do the cutting along with the designated cutting points of the strip. However, you do need to ensure that the wire is not exposed when cutting it. Also, make sure that you use a wire stripper before cutting the strip lights.
Q: Can led strip lights be used on outdoor metal?
A: Yes, led strip lights can be used on metal surfaces. However, you will need to ensure that the adhesive tape has a high heat resistance and is designed for outdoor use.
Q: Can led strip lights be used on metal doors?
A: Yes, you can use led strip light to put on a metal door. You should make sure that the back of the strip light has an adhesive backing, and then press it against the flat surface of the door.
Q: Can led strip lights be used on metal ceilings?
A: Yes, you can use led strip lights to put them on the ceiling. However, you do need to ensure that there is enough clearance between the strip lights and the ceiling. Also, you should make sure that your adhesive tape and the lighting strip are rated for use on a metal surface.
Q: Can led strip lights be used in the snow?
A: While it is possible to use led strip lights in the snow, you will need to ensure that the adhesive tape has a high heat resistance and that the led strip light you pick out are also waterproof or designed for this purpose.
Q: Can led strip lights be used on water?
A: Yes, you can stick the adhesive tape to an underwater surface. However, you do need to make sure your led strip light is waterproof and that you are also using high-quality weather-resistant adhesive tape that is designed for this purpose.