{"id":24366,"date":"2022-05-30T21:38:10","date_gmt":"2022-05-30T21:38:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/m.homethangs.com\/blog\/?p=24366"},"modified":"2022-05-30T21:38:12","modified_gmt":"2022-05-30T21:38:12","slug":"how-to-install-tape-lighting-affordable-diy-friendly-mood-lights","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/homethangs.com\/blog\/2022\/05\/how-to-install-tape-lighting-affordable-diy-friendly-mood-lights\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Install Tape Lighting: Affordable, DIY Friendly Mood Lights"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Upgrading your home’s lighting is almost always a job for a professional. Whether you’re changing out an existing fixture or looking to add new ones, anything more involved than plugging in an lap requires know-how (or even licensing) that most DIYers simply don’t have. The exception? Tape lighting. These adhesive-backed LED strips are dead simple to install with tools you probably already have; no hard wiring or electrician needed.<\/p>\n\n\n

What Is Tape Lighting?<\/h2>\n\n\n
\"An<\/a>
Tape lighting is fun and versatile, and can install anywhere you have reasonable access to an outlet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

You know that soft glowing light that makes high-end interiors look really radiant? Under cabinets, along baseboards, or around the edge of a tiered drop ceiling? Chances are, that light comes from LED tape lights<\/a> or their brethren. Think of them like the highest-quality version of strings of fairy lights; they consist of lengths of small, energy-saving LED lights that you can chain together, which draw power from a single outlet. The big difference? All the lights and wiring are contained within a spool of thin, peel-and-stick ribbon. The lights are smaller and closer together, for more even all-over lighting, and can be trimmed to fit any configuration.<\/p>\n\n\n

What You’ll Need<\/h2>\n\n\n
\"An<\/a>
Tape lights are also a great way to add bright task lighting without taking up surface space or requiring a professional installation (by Vanillawood)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Start by finding a tape lighting kit that’s the right size for your project. To figure that out, measure along the length of where you plan to place the lights, starting with the outlet you’ll plug them into. You want to make sure you have enough tape to cover the space. If it’ll be rounding any corners, ensure you have enough connecting pieces to join multiple lights without bending the tape. You’ll need a power supply for each “zone” or area of light that you want to control independently. Double check whether your kit is powered by remote, press button, or switch, and if it has a light-switch style plate you’ll need to install. If the starter kits don’t quite accommodate your needs? You can buy any of the parts and pieces individually to round out your project.<\/p>\n\n\n

Shop Tape Lighting Kits:<\/strong> \n\n\n

Installation<\/h2>\n\n\n
<\/a>
Tape lighting is often used for undercabinet lighting in the kitchen, but you can install it on any smooth surface with access to a nearby outlet – so don’t be afraid to get creative! (by PPDS)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Tools<\/h3>\n\n\n

To install tape lighting, you’ll need a few simple tools: household cleaner and a soft cloth, a small flathead screwdriver, wire strippers, and a pair of decently sharp scissors. That’s it!<\/p>\n\n\n

Steps<\/h3>\n\n\n
  1. Prep<\/strong>. You want to install your lights on a clean, smooth surface. Prep your area before you begin by wiping the surface down with a soft cloth and an appropriate cleaner. Allow to dry completely. <\/li>
  2. Measure Twice, Cut Once<\/strong>. Double check the measurements before you start! Once you know the number and lengths of the lights you’ll need, measure out the appropriate length of tape and cut, carefully, along the closest indicated cut line. Important: ONLY cut the tape on an indicated line; cutting elsewhere, or cutting messily, can damage the wiring and make the lights fail to connect, like a burnt bulb on a string of lights. <\/li>
  3. Connect The Pieces.<\/strong> Always connect your tape lights before removing the adhesive backing. It’s easier to do the wiring with the box right in front of you, and you’ll be less likely to accidentally stick the lights too far apart. Depending on the kit, you’ll find one of three types of connectors.