Skirting boards have long been a standard feature in our homes. But modern lighting has transformed them into a stunning design element. The trend of using LED lights for skirting boards is growing in both homes and businesses. This guide will answer all your key questions about these lights, helping you make the perfect choice.
1. What is an LED Skirting Board?
An LED skirting board is a modern alternative to traditional skirting. It integrates LED lights for skirting boards directly into a specially designed profile. In other words, it combines the protective function of a baseboard with the beautiful ambiance of indirect lighting.
Unlike traditional skirting, which is purely protective and decorative, LED skirting serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it still protects the base of your walls from scuffs and marks. Secondly, and most importantly, the integrated LED lights provide a soft, ambient glow. These are also known as plinth lights or baseboard lights. The skirting profiles are often made from MDF, PVC, or aluminium. However, aluminium is very popular because it is durable and helps the LEDs stay cool.
2. What are the Advantages of LED Skirting Boards?
Choosing LED lights for skirting boards offers numerous benefits beyond just looking good. They are a practical, efficient, and safe lighting solution for any modern space.
- Energy Efficiency: LEDs use significantly less electricity than older lighting technologies. As a result, they can help lower your energy bills.
- Long Lifespan: A quality LED strip can last between 20,000 to 50,000 hours. That is to say, you won't have to worry about replacing them for many years.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The hidden light source creates a sophisticated, high-end feel. It washes your walls or floors with a seamless glow, adding depth and luxury to a room.
- Functional Benefits: For instance, they are perfect for nighttime guidance. They light up hallways and staircases, improving safety. Moreover, they can reduce the need for bright overhead lighting, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Safety Features: LED lights run at a low voltage and produce very little heat. This makes them perfectly safe for homes with curious children and pets.
- Customisability: You can choose from a wide range of colours. For example, warm white creates a cozy feel, while RGB options let you change the colour to suit your mood. You can also add dimmers to control the brightness.
3. What Key Factors Should You Consider When Choosing LED Lights?
Before you buy, it's important to think about the specific LED lights you need. Your choice will depend on the look you want to achieve, the room's function, and your budget. Above all, planning which lights to use ensures you get the perfect result.
â‘ Lighting Direction
Firstly, decide where you want the light to point. This is determined by the skirting profile you use. An upward glow creates a "wall-washing" effect, making a room feel taller. On the other hand, a downward glow illuminates the floor, which is great for pathways and highlighting beautiful flooring.
â‘¡LED Type
Next, consider the type of LED strip. COB (Chip on Board) strips are a popular choice. They provide a continuous, dot-free line of light, which looks very premium. SMD (Surface Mounted Device) strips are also common, but you will need a good diffuser to hide the individual light points. For colourful effects, choose an RGB or RGBW strip.
â‘¢Brightness and Colour Temperature
The colour of the light makes a big difference. Brightness is measured in lumens. For ambient lighting, you don't need extremely high lumens. Colour temperature is measured in Kelvin (K). Here is a simple comparison to help you choose:
Light Type | Colour Temperature | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Warm White | 2700K - 3000K | Cozy, relaxing areas like bedrooms and living rooms. |
Cool White | 4000K - 6000K | Functional, modern spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. |
RGB / RGBW | Varies | Dynamic, colourful lighting for game rooms or parties. |
â‘£The Profile and Diffuser
While you are choosing the lights, you must consider their housing. The skirting profile is not just decorative; it protects the LED strip and helps it perform better. Aluminium profiles are highly recommended because they act as a heat sink, drawing heat away from the LEDs and extending their lifespan. In addition, always use a profile with a frosted diffuser cover. This plastic cover snaps over the lights to create a smooth, even glow and prevent any harsh, dotty glare.
⑤Control Systems
Finally, how do you want to control your LED lights for skirting boards? Options range from a simple wall switch to a remote control that allows dimming. For ultimate convenience, smart controllers let you manage the lights with a phone app or voice commands through systems like Alexa or Google Home.
4. How Do You Install LED Skirting Board Lights Correctly?
Proper installation is key to a professional-looking and long-lasting result. While it can be a DIY project, you may need an electrician for the final wiring.
- Step 1: Prepare Your Materials. First, measure your walls carefully. Plan the route for your wiring to the power supply. Attach your chosen LED strip inside the skirting board profile, which usually has a channel and a diffuser cover.
- Step 2: Mount the Skirting Board. Subsequently, fix the skirting board profile to the wall. This can be either surface-mounted or recessed for a flush finish.
- Step 3: Connect to Power. This is the most technical step. Connect the LED strip wiring to a compatible low-voltage power supply (driver). Then, connect the power supply to your mains electricity. This part should be done by a qualified person.
- Step 4: Test Everything. Before you clip on the final diffuser cover, turn the power on. Test the lights to ensure they work correctly. Check the dimmer and colour settings if you have them.
- Step 5: Add Finishing Touches. Finally, snap the diffuser into place over the LED strip. This will soften the light and create a smooth glow. Add any corner connectors or end caps for a neat finish.
Pro Tip: For bathrooms or kitchens, always use waterproof LED lights with a rating of IP65 or higher. This protects them from moisture and steam.
5. Common Questions About LED Skirting Board Installation
Can I install LED lights on existing skirting boards?
This is difficult. Most existing skirting boards don't have a channel for the LED strip. You would usually need to replace your old skirting or add a separate, surface-mounted aluminium profile onto it to house the lights properly.
Are the LED lights waterproof?
It depends on the LED strip you buy. You must choose a strip with an IP65 rating or higher for it to be waterproof and safe for use in wet areas like bathrooms. The profile itself may also need to be a water-resistant material like aluminium or PVC.
Do they make cleaning harder?
No, not at all. Most designs use a smooth, flush diffuser cover. This prevents dust from getting into the channel and is very easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Will the lights be too bright or glaring?
They shouldn't be. The key is to use a frosted diffuser cover. This softens the light and prevents glare. Choosing the right brightness (lumens) and a warm colour temperature also creates a comfortable, gentle light.
Can the lights be integrated with smart home systems?
Yes, certainly. Many modern LED lights for skirting boards are compatible with smart controllers. This allows you to integrate them with systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit for voice and app control.
Conclusion
In conclusion, LED lights for skirting boards are a fantastic way to elevate your home's interior. They perfectly blend style, function, and modern technology. They provide beautiful ambient lighting, improve safety in dark areas, and are highly energy-efficient. By considering factors like LED type, colour temperature, and control systems, you can create a custom lighting solution that transforms your space.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: How much do LED skirting boards typically cost?
The cost can vary widely. It depends on the material of the skirting profile (aluminium is most expensive), the quality of the LED strip, and the power supply. You should budget for the skirting profile, the LED strip, a power supply (driver), and any controllers or dimmers you want.
Q2: Can I cut the LED strips to fit my room size?
Yes, most LED strips are designed to be cut. They have designated cut marks, usually every 5 or 10 centimetres. You can simply cut them with a sharp pair of scissors at these points to get the exact length you need for your walls.
Q3: Do LED skirting lights use a lot of electricity?
No, they are very energy-efficient. LEDs consume up to 85% less energy than incandescent bulbs. Even if you leave them on for several hours every evening, they will have a very small impact on your electricity bill compared to traditional lighting.
