How to Choose & Install Outdoor LED Strip Lights
Mar 17th 2025
Outdoor lighting isn’t just about being able to see in the dark—it creates an atmosphere. Whether you're showcasing your landscaping features, creating a cozy feel on your patio, or making your back yard the ultimate neighborhood after-dark hangout, LED strip lights are here to help you achieve all your lighting aspirations.
Not all LED strip lights are created equal. Choosing high quality strip lights for your space will ensure durability, brightness, and longevity. This guide will empower you with the knowledge you need to pick the best outdoor LED strip lights, install them with ease, and realize your ultimate neighborhood after-dark hang out dream.
Why Outdoor LED Strip Lights?
Are you still using outdated floodlights or cheap string lights? The time has come to upgrade. FCOB LED strip lights provide a seamless, bright, and energy-efficient solution that lasts longer and improves the appearance of the more traditional options.
- More Light, Less Energy – Uses up to 75% less electricity than a comparable incandescent light.
- No Harsh Hotspots – Strip lights provide seamless, uniform lighting without the bright spots delivered by old style spotlights.
- Durable for Outdoor Use – IP65-rated for weather resistance when properly weatherproofed.
- Flexible & Customizable – Cut-to-length options let you fit them anywhere.
Step 1: Choosing the Right LED Strip Lights
Picking the right outdoor LED strip lights depends on a few key factors: where you’re installing them, how much brightness you need, and the size of the area you need to cover.
LED STRIP LIGHT COMPARISON
For a balanced mix of brightness, flexibility, and efficiency, low voltage strip lights are ideal for most backyard applications. If you need a long, uninterrupted run of lights, 120V strip lights are the better choice.
Step 2: Best Places for Outdoor LED Strip Lights
Outdoor LED strip lights don’t simply light up a space—they enhance safety, create an incredible backdrop, and bring curb appeal beyond expectations. Here’s where they work best:
Pathways & Walkways – Ensure safety and create a picturesque landscape that enhances your home's beauty.
LED strip lights guide guests safely along paths and walkways. Install them along stone pathways, garden borders, or driveways to emphasize landscape features while preventing trips and falls.
Stairs – Prevent accidents by addressing tripping hazards and improving nighttime safety features.
Brightening stairs with LED strip lights improves safety by reducing tripping hazards, while conveniently adding a sleek, modern look. Install lights under stair nosing, along risers, or under handrails to create a subtle glow that helps people navigate your outdoor space when lighting conditions are not optimal.
Around Trees & Garden Features – Flaunt your garden gems.
Wrap LED strip lights around tree trunks or nestle them into garden beds to create a pleasing atmosphere. They’re exceptional at revealing the beauty, textures, and shapes of water features, statues, and flower beds.
Patios & Decks – Define edges for a modern look.
Trimming your deck or patio with our custom cut LED strip lights creates a clean, modern aesthetic at just the right length. Light It Yourself (LIY) under railings, along perfola roof lines, or around seating areas with our extensive range of strip light accessories to add warmth and visibility for nighttime entertaining simply.
Fences & Railings – Add dimension and visibility.
Mount LED strip lights along fences and railings to bring soft ambient lighting to your backyard. This enhances the look of your outdoor space while improving visibility.
Step 3: Installation Tips for a Seamless Look
1. Order a Little More Than You Think You Need
LED strip lights are cuttable in specific intervals, so always order slightly more than you need. This ensures you have enough to cover your space while allowing flexibility in case of miscalculations. You can always trim the excess at the cut marks to fit.
2. Use Track to Keep Lights Secure & Protected
Strip light aluminum track keeps your LED strip lights securely in place and helps dissipate heat, extending your lights’ lifespan. They also give your lighting a sleek, professional look.
3. Plan for Power Access
Make sure you have a nearby outlet. You will need a low-voltage weatherproof power supply for low voltage strips. For 120V strips, simply plug in and go. For safety be sure to check that you have an outdoor-rated outlet that meets safety regulations.
4. Weatherproof Connections – Protect Against Rain & Moisture
Use heat-shrink weatherproofing tape or silicone sealant to waterproof all connections, especially in humid or rainy climates. This prevents shorts and extends the lifespan of your lights.
5. Test Before Finalizing – Avoid Frustrating Mistakes
Before permanently securing your LED strip lights, plug them in and test the placement. This lets you make adjustments before mounting them with adhesive or brackets.
FAQs About Outdoor LED Strip Lights
How long do outdoor LED strip lights last?
With proper care, LED strip lights can last 4 to 8 years—even in harsh weather.
Can I leave my LED strip lights on all night?
Yes! LED strip lights are energy-efficient and don’t overheat, so they’re safe to leave on overnight. However, turning them off when not needed can help extend their lifespan and reduce energy use over time.
Do LED strip lights use a lot of electricity?
No. LED strip lights use 75% less energy than similar incandescent lights, and they last up to 25 times longer. Savings on top of savings!
Your backyard deserves better than dull, outdated lighting. With Brilliant Brand LED strip lights, you get consistent, high-quality illumination that enhances your outdoor space while keeping energy costs low.