Surface Mounted Channel
Installation Guide

• Tape Measure
• Miter saw (or hacksaw)
• Screw Driver
• Scissors
• Power Drill (optional)
• Pencil/Marker

• Surface Mounting Channel
• Mounting Clips
• End Caps
• #4 half-inch screws
• LED Strip Lights

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.

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 3.3ft and 6.5ft sections, if you need to run longer, you can 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. Mount the Channel

Method A: Using Mounting Clips

One of the easiest ways to install the aluminum channel is by using mounting clips. (Note: LED Strip Lights can be installed before or after mounting with this method

• Position the Clips: Place the clips along the installation surface and mark their positions using a pencil. We recommend 2-3 clips per section, evenly spaced, to ensure a secure hold. If the section is smaller, 2 clips are adequate.
• Drill Pilot Holes: Use a small drill bit to create pilot holes for the screws. Pro Tip: A piece of tape on the drill bit can help indicate the depth and prevent drilling too far.
• Attach the Mounting Clips: Verify all the clips are aligned and secure the in place using #4 half-inch screws. If any clip is misaligned it will be difficult to snap the channel into place.
• Snap the Channel Into Place: Press the aluminum channel firmly into the clips until it locks securely.

Method B: Direct Screw Mounting Method

For a more seamless look, you can mount the channel directly with screws (IMPORTANT: With this method, you must mount the channel before you can install the LED Strip Light into the channel.)

• Mark the Drill Points: Evenly space and mark the screw locations along the channel.
• Drill Pilot Holes in the Channel: Use a small drill bit to create pilot holes through the channel.
• Secure the Channel Align the channel and fasten it using the appropriate flat head screws. Countersinking the Screws will allow the screws to sit flush with the surface of the channel, providing a flat surface when installing the strip lights.

4. Installing End Caps

Narrow channels typically use plastic end caps, while wider channels may have metal options. Slide the end caps into place before adding the LED strip lights.

5. Installing The Strip Lights

A. Cutting the Strip Lights: Be sure to cut the strip only at the designated cut marks to maintain functionality. (CUTTING STRIP GRAPHIC) 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.

6. 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.

7. All Done! Congratulations!