LED strip lights have quickly become our favorite decorative lights, but how do we solve the problem of LED lights not sticking? We encounter this stubborn problem every day, which fortunately is not irreversible.
These lights are so versatile, flexible, easy to install, and budget-friendly that we simply cannot find a better option for our home. In this article, you will find out the 5 quick and easy fixes for your beloved LED strip lights.
5 Quick & Easy Fixes for LED lights not sticking
Regardless of the many advantages, LED strip lights have their own drawback, which we often encounter. Namely, they can be very irritating when it comes to the adhesive falling off and not adhering to the surface, especially over time.
Shortly said, we struggle with LED lights not sticking at all or not sticking properly. It would be too ideal if something this simple, cheap, and nice-looking didn’t have a single flaw, wouldn’t it? But there’s no need to worry about that, we can analyze a few tricks that’ll help you.
Fix #1
Make sure the tape is clean
Firstly, we all must agree upon the fact that prevention is better than cure. LED strip lights come with their own self-adhesive tapes and we need to take care of them primarily. Make sure the tape is clean before placing it on the surface.
Avoid placing the tape onto textured surfaces that have a rough canvas.
Once it is already installed, it is too late, so make sure that its adhesive side does not contain traces of dust, liquid, or other materials that could affect its adhesion. If you see traces of dirt on the tape, use a smooth and dry cloth that will pick up the unwanted particles.
Related article: Can you reuse LED strip lights?
Fix #2
Use them as soon as you remove the adhesive tape
You bought LED strip lights and removed the adhesive tape, but decided not to install the lights right away? This is not a good idea because the adhesive tape loses its stickiness in contact with air.
There is dust and various particles in the air that will undoubtedly affect the tape. You may not be able to install it at all, and you may shorten its life as it is no longer ”fresh”.
Fix #3
Pay attention to the humidity of the room
Do not place LED strip lights on wet surfaces and in rooms prone to moisture. Moisture will significantly affect the stickiness, and it is not suitable for the light itself. Humid areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens are not good places to install these lights because the adhesive will loosen very quickly.
Fix #4
Mounting channels or clips
Mounting channels or mounting clips can effectively solve your problem. Many would agree that the LED strip lights look even better with a mounting channel as it hugs both sides of the LED strip, which gives these lights an elegant, symmetrical, and tidy look. This solution will keep your lights in place; all you need to do is place them correctly in the channel and close it.
Mounting clips are maybe a less visually appealing option, but more budget-friendly.
All you need to do is install them by using a drill and your LED lights won’t come off. They’re there and they’re not going anywhere. If you don’t like the way they look, you can permanently hide them behind a surface, such as a sofa, bookcase, or table.
Related article: How to hang fairy lights on the wall
Fix #5
Use double-sided tape.
All you need is to determine how much double-sided tape you need and cut it to the desired measurements. After you cut it, just place it on the back of your LED strip lights and then they are ready to be mounted on your wall. This will definitely extend the shelf life of the adhesive and additionally strengthen the LED strips.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the problem of LED lights not sticking can be either in the wall itself or the surface (which is, for example, too dusty, damp, or textured) or the adhesive itself is defective due to poor quality or some other factors beyond your control.
To increase the chance of having your LED strip lights stick to the wall for a long period of time, you’ll need to make sure that you meet all the conditions listed above.
In order to fix the problem, you need to first understand why the adhesive isn’t sticking to the surface or you’ll need to figure out why your adhesive has become so weak. By analyzing our article, you can take steps to fix the issue and get back on track with your LED light adhesion success.
