Like all other people, I also like colorful LED lights around my home. After bedrooms, I have recently added them to my kitchen. However, it was a real headache to install LED strip lights around the corners.
Hanging the strips straight is an easy task for me. But, I could not figure out how to bend around corners. Then, I found some very useful hacks from various platforms.
I applied them and fortunately, they worked. I want to share those tricks with you so that you can install the LED strips successfully like a pro.
Table of contents
Option #1. 90-Degree Pinch
It is also called the ribbon bend. I found this method very effective as it does not require any extra accessories. You can pinch the LED strip around the corner.
But, make sure the lights you are not damaging their lights. In fact, you can go for this option if the strip corner has no LEDs and bend at copper marks. Twist the strip in a looping fashion.
Curl it tightly to change the direction. However, the bent portion will not stick properly to the surface. But, you can apply masking tape or mounting putty. This little floating portion will not affect the light quality.
Option #2. Corner Fold
Another way to make a corner fold or Accordion curve. These will help you bend the strips around 90 degrees and round corners. Here is how to make a corner fold;
- Put your strip light on a flat surface. Locate the exact point of folding.
- Now, fold the strip at a 45-degree angle in the opposite direction of the corner.
- Bend the fold backward in a manner that it comes on itself.
- Crease the fold properly to give a fine look. Use super glue, 3M glue, or tape to secure the fold.
- It gives a neat look especially if your lights are clearly visible.
Pros and Cons of Folding
Folding is an easy way to install strips around the corners. The biggest advantage is that you do not need extra tools. You can opt for it in immediate situations when you do not have time to buy connectors.
However, it can have some disadvantages too. Folding is acceptable only if the corner is free and has no LEDs in it. Otherwise, the lights will be damaged and you may need to replace the whole strip.
Folding does not give a decent look. Moreover, folding too hard can break the waterproof coating of the strips.
This can lead to short circuits and even fire. So, never fold or twist a waterproof LED strip. Moreover, the strip can break at the folded corner.
Option #3. Jump Connector
It is an easy and simple solution. You have to buy a jump connector for LED strips. Cut the strip when it comes to the corner. Now, join both pieces to either end of the connector.
The jump connector lets you bend the strip in any shape and direction. These connectors are available in different types.
Some require soldering while others can attach directly. So, it depends on your convenience and what type you buy. Personally, I prefer easy things.
Option #4. L-Shape Connector
L-shape or back-to-back pin connectors are also a good option. They assist you in making a 90-degree turn. The gaps between the lights are minimum through this method.
You have to cut the light strip around the corner. Now, attach them to the L-shaped connector and lock both.
Pros and Cons of Connectors
Connectors are the professional and best tools to install strip lights around corners. They give a neat and professional look. Moreover, they are easy to use and secure.
The corners are protected and no risk of short circuits. The waterproofing also remains intact. The only drawback is that connectors can become loose.
So, the strips miss a connection with each other and will not light up. However, this problem can be solved by reconnecting the strips firmly.
How to Cut LED Strip Lights
If you want to install the strip lights on corners, you have to cut them. Especially, while joining through the connectors, cutting is necessary. But, you should know the right method of cutting.
Use a wire cutter or sharp scissors for this purpose. Cut the strips exactly at the copper dots or marked ends. Most strips have these marking after every 3-6 LEDs.
They may be at every 1-2 inches throughout the roll. Do not cut them at any other point or you will damage the lights. Avoid harming the copper ends as they are the linking points.
FAQs Regarding Installation of LED Strip Lights
Read the following important questions if you want to learn more about installing the strip lights.
Can I bend LED strip lights safely?
You can bend your strip lights safely if they are non-waterproof. Avoid bending waterproof LEDs because they have silicon covering that is not flexible. So, if you cut the covering will fail. Instead, cut the strips and join them through soldering a wire.
Are LED strip lights bright enough to illuminate my home?
LED strips are available in different brightness values. So, you can get the required lumen. The brightness also depends on the location where you want to install the lights. They may not be ideal for reading etc. However, good for lighting up the room.
Can I install LED lights in the bathroom?
Yes, waterproof strip lights are available in the market. You can install them in moist places such as the bathroom tub, pool, etc. These strips are sealed within a silicone tube. Hence, they are safe to use anywhere.
Also Read: Stick LED Lights on Wall without Adhesive Best Solutions
Final Words
So, you have learned multiple ways to install LED strip lights around the corners. Connectors are the best options. However, you can also choose other tricks but be careful. Stay connected with us for more updates.
