Recessed, Mud-In, and In-Floor LED Channel Installation Guide

• Utility knife or router
• Straight edge
• Screws and screwdriver/drill (if mechanical support is needed)
• Joint compound (mud)
• Paper or fiberglass tape
• Sandpaper
• Flooring tools as needed

• Mud-In or Recessed Mounting Channel
• Mounting Clips
• End Caps
• #4 half-inch screws
• LED Strip Lights

For In-Floor Channel:

• In-Floor LED Channel, Universal Wide (IP65)
• End Caps for Wide In-Floor Channel (Set of 2)
• Waterproof Seal for Wide In-Floor Channel
• W-Series LED Strip Light - Ultra Bright - Single Color - Waterproof
• Endless RGBW Color Changing LED Strip Light - Waterproof

1. Certain applications, such as closets, may require channels with lenses for safety and compliance. Always check local codes for installation requirements.
2. Be sure to choose the right channel size for your strip light. Check our compatibility chart here for guidance.
3. Measure to make sure the depth of the channel will lie flush or slightly below the level of the finished floor if you're installing in-floor channel.

1. Measure Your Installation Area

Determine the length of the mounting channel needed for your project. Be sure to leave a small gap at the ends to accommodate wires and end caps. The mounting channel comes in 3.3 ft and 6.5 ft sections, if you need to run longer, you may simply butt multiple sections together.

2. Cut the Aluminum Channel

• Before cutting the channel, make sure you have on the appropriate PPE (like safety glasses).
• Prior to cutting, remove the channel lens to prevent damage.
• A miter saw is helpful for precise, clean cuts. If using a hacksaw, make slow, even strokes for the best results.
• The aluminum channel does not contain iron, so it does not need a grinder; a regular saw for wood will work. Go slow!

3. Prepare the Installation Area

Use a knife, router, or saw to cut a pathway for the channel in your drywall or surface. Ensure the cut is clean and free of obstructions using a straight edge as a guide.

4. Secure the Channel

Place the channel in the routed path and mechanically fasten it using screws. Ensure the channel sits flush with the surrounding surface for a seamless finish.

5. Apply Joint Compound

• For the mud-in channel: Mud in the flanges of the channel using joint compound to blend it into the wall or ceiling. Apply paper or fiberglass tape over the edges for added stability and to prevent cracking. Use modern drywall finishing techniques to achieve a smooth, level surface.
• There are no mud-in flanges on recessed channel.
• Use suitable materials to install the in-floor channel into concrete, brick, or similar surfaces.

6. Sand and Finish

Once the mud has dried, sand the area to create a seamless transition between the wall and the channel. Repeat the mudding and sanding process if needed for a polished look.

7. Install LED Strip Lights

A. Cutting the Strip Lights: Be sure to cut the strip only at the designated cut marks to maintain functionality. This will mean cutting the strip light a bit shorter than the channel.

B: Clean the Channel Surface: Clean the inside of the channel so the light strip adheres well. Rubbing alcohol on a cotton swap works well for this. Ensure that the channel is dry before installing the strip lights.

C. Installing LED Strip Lights: Center the strip light within the channel, leaving an equal amount of space on either side of the strip light. Carefully remove the adhesive backing, working from one end of the strip to the other to prevent air pockets or raised sections, and apply the strip inside the channel. Be careful to limit contact with skin to ensure a minimal transfer of oil from skin to the LED adhesive backing. Keep the strip light straight for a professional look.

8. Cutting and Installing the Lens Cover

Measure the distance between the endcaps and use tin snips, a fine-tooth saw, or scissors to cut the lens cover to match the channel length. Gently press the lens cover into the channel, ensuring a snug fit.

9. All Done! Congratulations!