So, you want to install outdoor LED strip lights, and not just slap them on and hope for the best. You want them to look good and last. Whether you’re lighting up a backyard patio, outlining your porch, or adding glow under deck steps, these little strips of LEDs can really elevate the space. But only if they’re installed right.
I’ve done a few of these myself—on fences, pergolas, even under eaves—and the difference between a clean setup and a sloppy one? It’s all in the prep, the mounting, and yes… waterproofing.
Let’s walk through it together, step-by-step.
Table of Contents
Why Go with Outdoor LED Strip Lights?
If you’re on the fence about whether outdoor LED strip lights are the right move—let me make it simple: they’re energy-efficient, flexible, and honestly, pretty easy to work with once you know the basics.
They’re perfect for:
- Edging patios or decks
- Lining walkways or stairs
- Under-rail or under-roof lighting
- Ambience around pools or gardens
Here’s the key, though: not all LED strips are created equal. For outdoor use, you must go with waterproof versions, ideally rated IP65 or higher. Anything less, and you’re asking for trouble as soon as it rains.
What You’ll Need
First things first—before you even think about peeling off the adhesive or powering anything up, gather your gear. It’ll save you time and frustration later.
Your supply checklist:
- Waterproof outdoor LED strip lights (IP65 or above)
- Compatible power supply (usually 12V or 24V)
- Weatherproof connectors or extension cords
- Mounting clips or outdoor adhesive tape
- Silicone sealant or heat shrink tubing
- Measuring tape, scissors, and a drill
- Smart controller or timer (optional but smart)
Most outdoor LED strip lights are cuttable and linkable—but always double-check the specs. You don’t want to get halfway through your install and realize you snipped a non-cuttable strip.
Step 1: Map Out Your Layout
Don’t wing it. Start with a plan.
- Walk the area you’re lighting.
- Measure everything—corners, gaps, and turns included.
- Decide where your power source will go (and if you need to hide it).
- Visualize how you’ll route the strip so it looks clean and even.
Take a moment to think about lighting angles too. Do you want the glow pointed down toward the ground? Or facing out? A small detail, but it makes a big difference in the final look.
Step 2: Prep the Surface
This part’s often rushed—but don’t skip it. If your surface is dirty, rough, or wet, that strip’s not going to stick for long.
Here’s what to do:
- Wipe down the mounting surface with rubbing alcohol or a mild cleaner.
- Let it dry completely.
- If the surface is textured (like brick, stucco, or rough wood), ditch the adhesive idea and use mounting clips instead.
You’re creating a foundation here. Do it right, and you’ll thank yourself every time you walk outside and those outdoor LED strip lights are still stuck tight.
Step 3: Install the Strips
Okay, now we’re getting to the good part.
Option A: Adhesive Mounting
Most strips come with sticky backing, but let’s be real—stock adhesives don’t always hold up outdoors. If you want a long-term bond, use outdoor-rated double-sided tape (like 3M VHB). Press firmly as you go, especially on curves and corners.
Option B: Mounting Clips
These are more secure—especially in hot or humid climates. Use a drill to space clips every 12–18 inches, and snap the strip in. It’s extra effort, but the peace of mind is worth it.
Pro tip: Don’t stretch the strip too tight. Let it rest naturally, with a little slack between clips.
Step 4: Power It Up
This part scares people a bit, but it’s not bad—just double-check a few things:
- Make sure your power supply matches the strip voltage.
- Use a weatherproof power adapter or keep it sheltered inside a box.
- Position your power connection so it won’t sit in puddles or soak in rain.
If you’re connecting multiple strips, use splitters or amplifiers to prevent voltage drop, especially for runs longer than 16 feet. And if you’re splicing wires? Seal the connections with heat shrink tubing or a waterproof junction box.
Outdoor LED strip lights can only perform well if the power source is stable and protected.
Step 5: Waterproof Your Connections
Honestly, this is where most installs go wrong. The strip itself might be waterproof, but what about that cut end? Or the plug? Or the controller?
Don’t skip waterproofing:
- Cover all connections in silicone sealant or wrap them in heat shrink.
- Seal open ends with caps or glue to block moisture.
- Keep connectors off the ground, elevated is better than drenched.
If you want these outdoor LED strip lights to last more than one season, this step is non-negotiable.
Step 6: Test Before Finalizing
Plug everything in and run a full test before locking things down.
- Do all sections light up?
- Are the colors consistent?
- Any flickering, dimming, or overheating?
If something’s off, now’s the time to fix it. It’s a lot easier to troubleshoot before everything’s mounted and sealed.
Where to Hide the Power Supply
Let’s talk aesthetics. That chunky power brick? Not cute.
Tuck it under a deck, behind furniture, or mount it inside a weatherproof box. The goal is to keep it dry, cool, and out of sight. Bonus points if you can control it with a smart plug or timer.
Smart Upgrades to Consider
You’ve got the basics down—but if you want to elevate your outdoor LED strip lights setup, consider these:
- Aluminum channels for a clean, diffused look
- Motion sensors for pathway safety
- Color-changing options for party mode
- Smart controllers for scheduling or voice control
It’s not just about lighting—it’s about creating a vibe.
Final Tips & Common Pitfalls
Don’t:
- Use indoor strips outside. Even under cover, moisture gets in.
- Skip measuring. Eyeballing leads to waste and frustration.
- Ignore the wattage limits. Overloading = blown power supplies.
- Run your strips without testing every connection.
Do:
- Plan before you peel.
- Waterproof like it’s your job.
- Go slow, and enjoy the process.
Wrap-Up: You’ve Got This
Installing outdoor LED strip lights isn’t rocket science, but it does take care, planning, and a bit of patience. When done right, it transforms your space, makes it feel more welcoming, more lived-in, more you.
So grab your gear, sketch your plan, and light it up. You’ll love the result every time the sun goes down.
Need help picking the right outdoor LED strip lights or troubleshooting your setup? Contact us, and let’s get your backyard glowing.
