Can you put LED lights on crown molding?

Installing LED lights on crown molding can add a gorgeous accent lighting effect in any room. The soft glow emanating from the top of the walls creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. While it may seem daunting to install wiring and lighting around intricate decorative molding, it can absolutely be done safely and effectively with proper planning and care. There are a few factors to consider when putting LED lights on crown molding, but the project can create a beautiful payoff that elevates the whole look of a room.

Benefits of Installing LED Lights on Crown Molding

There are several excellent reasons to take on an LED lighting crown molding project:

Ambiance

The ambient lighting effect created by LEDs on crown molding is subtle yet striking. The light accentuates the details and shapes of the molding itself while casting a soft glow onto the walls and ceiling. This can create a cozy atmosphere perfect for dining rooms, living rooms, bedrooms and more. It’s a simple way to create an instant focal point without overpowering the room.

Aesthetic Appeal

highlighting your crown molding with LED lights is an easy way to showcase this architectural detail in any space. The light draws attention to the style and craftsmanship of the molding while making the whole room feel more polished and put-together. It can bring an outdated room firmly into the realm of contemporary design.

Flexibility

One of the best aspects of LED lights is how readily adjustable and customizable they are. With dimmable bulbs and multiple color temperature options available, you can easily set the perfect mood lighting for any activity or occasion in a room. Cool white lights provide an energetic daylight effect, while warm white lights are perfect for relaxation. You can even change colors for fun.

Energy Efficient

Choosing LED lights is the sustainable option, as they use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent lighting (and about 65% less than fluorescent lighting). This can lead to significantly lower electricity costs while still allowing you to keep the lights on as desired.

Pre-Installation Considerations

Before you get started on your LED crown molding lighting project, there are a few important factors to note:

Power Source

Determine how you will power the LED light strips. Often, plugging into an existing outlet is the easiest option. If outlets aren’t conveniently located, you may want to hire an electrician to install new wiring specifically for the LEDs.

Layout

Decide on the placement of the lights depending on your goals. For uniform lighting, position continuous strips along the length of the molding. For a more focused accent effect, install lights only along certain sections. Take into account the potential for dark spots in areas not lit by LEDs.

Molding Type

The profile and texture of the molding itself will impact the installation. Moldings with an L-shaped inner edge or uneven surface can make attaching strip lights tricky. Moldings with a flat underside are best suited for simple application.

Accessibility

Consider how you’ll reach the lights for maintenance once they’re installed. Using sturdy extension poles or scaffolding may be necessary in rooms with high or remote ceilings. This will allow you to easily replace bulbs when needed.

How to Install LED Strip Lights on Crown Molding

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Installing LED lights on crown molding involves carefully affixing strip lights to the underside of the architectural detail. Here is a step-by-step guide to complete this impactful lighting project in your home:

Materials Needed

• LED strip lights
• 12V power supply
• Power cable
• Crown molding clips
• Screws or adhesive
• Wire clips
• Electric drill
• Ladder

Step 1: Layout Your Lights

Determine the layout for your LED strip lights based on the space. Measure the length of the molding and purchase enough strip lighting to cover the desired area. It’s smart to buy a little extra. If using multiple sections of lights, ensure each strip will reach the 12V power supply you’ll connect them to.

Step 2: Attach Clips

Use a ladder to access the top of the crown molding. Here you will attach crown molding clips evenly along the underside of the molding using the included screws. Clips can also be secured with industrial strength adhesive. Space the clips a few inches apart.

Step 3: Connect Power Supply

Plug in the 12V power supply near an outlet in a location where its connected strip lights can reach. You may need an extension cord. Use wire clips to neatly guide the power supply cable along where the molding meets the ceiling and walls.

Step 4: Mount LED Strips

Start mounting the LED strip lights into the installed crown molding clips, pressing them in firmly so they hold. Use multiple smaller strips instead of very long continuous ones to make positioning easier. Connect each strip light strand to the power supply cable.

Step 5: Check Lighting Effect

Once fully installed, turn on the LED lights to ensure they work and provide the desired effect. Adjust the lights as needed before permanently securing the wires with more clips. Consider dimming or color adjusting the lights for ambiance.

Step 6: Conceal Wires

After verifying correct operation, neatly tuck and hide all wiring behind the crown molding. Use wire clips to smoothly guide wires so they are not visible but still accessible for maintenance. The strip lights should now be fully concealed for a seamless effect.

LED Strip Lighting Options

There are several types of LED strip lights well-suited for installation on crown molding depending on your unique needs:

Rigid Strip Lights

These solid LED strips hold their shape once positioned. They have an adhesive backing for attaching to the crown molding. Rigid options work well on simpler, flatter molding shapes.

Flexible Strip Lights

Flexible LED strip lights bend and curve as needed. This makes them ideal for use on more intricate or curved crown molding profiles. They also have adhesive backing for attachment.

Rope Lights

Rope lights feature tiny LED bulbs encased in bendable plastic tubing. The “rope” can be twisted to follow any molding contours. Rope lights work well on heavily ornamented crown molding.

Power Options

LED strips are available in convenient 12V or 24V options for direct low voltage power. Alternately, some plug directly into 120V outlets for easier installation. Waterproof outdoor strips lights are also available.

Smart Strips

“Smart” LED strips connect to home automation systems and apps for advanced lighting control options like scheduling, voice commands, custom scenes and effects. This adds convenience but increases cost.

Light Color Options

Choose LED strip lighting in warm, cool or daylight color temperatures to fit your goals. RGB or multi-color changing lights also allow you to manually adjust through a range of colors.

LED Strip Lighting Comparison

Light Option	Best For	Power	Cost	Quality
Rigid Strip	Flat Molding	12V	$$	Good
Flexible Strip	Curved Molding	12V	$$	Better
Rope Light	Ornate Molding	12V	$$$	Best

Choosing the Right LED Crown Molding Lights

Follow this checklist when selecting LED strip lights for your crown molding project:

• Light coverage: Choose adequate length for full coverage in room.
• Shape/flexibility: Match the strip shape to the molding profile.
• Lumens: Pick bright enough lights for intended effect.
• Power source: Select hardwired or plug-in 12V lights as needed.
• Control options: Decide if you want smart/automated lights.
• Beam angle: Wider 120° beams light the surrounding area better.
• Light color: Pick the desired color temperature and ambiance.
• Dimmable: Dimmable lights allow you to control brightness.
• Lens type: Frosted lens options provide softer, more diffuse light.

Taking these specifications into account will ensure high quality LED lighting results on your crown molding.

Tips for Installing LED Crown Molding Lighting

Follow these professional tips for flawless LED strip light placement on crown moldings:

Allow Adequate Airflow

Leave at least 3 inches of space between the molding and any ceiling or walls for airflow. This prevents overheating.

Keep It Straight

Use a laser level when attaching crown molding light clips for perfect alignment. Crooked lighting is obvious.

Minimize Visible Wiring

Carefully conceal wires behind molding instead of simply pinning them. Paint wires to match wall for camouflage.

Allow Access

Group wires into accessible areas so bulbs can be changed without damage when needed.

Use Diffuser Covers

Polycarbonate diffuser covers or lenses soften harsh LED light and hide bulb hotspots.

Watch Connection Points

Avoid visible gaps between strips by making connections inconspicuous areas with molding transitions.

Test First

Always connect lights and test operation before permanently mounting strips to molding.

Follow Fire Code

Keep wires and lights away from insulation, ventilation and other potentially combustible materials.

Safety Tips for Molding Lighting Projects

LED lighting projects involve electricity and elevation risks. Follow these precautions:

• Turn off power at the breaker before starting.
• Use fiberglass ladders to prevent conductive shock.
• Wear rubber-soled shoes when handling wires.
• Insulate all connections securely with heat shrink and/or electrical tape.
• Follow all electrical and building codes for your area.
• Hire a professional electrician if uncomfortable handling wiring.
• Use extreme caution working at heights, with a helper to assist.
• Replace defective wires immediately to prevent hazards.

Never take shortcuts when it comes to electrical and elevation safety. Making the project completely safe takes priority over convenience or speed.

Troubleshooting LED Crown Molding Lights

LED strip lighting is durable yet issues can occasionally arise. Use this troubleshooting guide as needed:

Problem: Some lights not turning on

• Check for loose wire connections
• Test for voltage reaching non-working areas
• Replace dead bulbs/LED diodes as needed

Problem: Flickering lights

• Ensure power supply provides adequate, stable voltage
• Check for shorts or crossed wires
• Replace defective bulbs/LEDs
• Upgrade to higher quality LED light strips

Problem: Dim lights

• Replace old bulbs
• Remove accumulated dust/grime from strips and lenses
• Upgrade power supply if under 12V

Problem: Overheating

• Improve ventilation around lights
• Reduce light density along strips
• Use lower voltage power supply
• Replace nonfunctioning individual LEDs

Most LED strip lighting issues can be resolved with careful inspection and replacement of problematic components. Always turn off power at the breaker before troubleshooting.

Conclusion

Installing LED strip lighting on crown molding is an easy way to add beautiful accent lighting style to any room. By carefully planning the layout, selecting quality lights and components, and safely handling the electrical work, you can complete this project yourself and enjoy a stunning result. Take time to emphasize neat wire concealment for a seamless professional look. With the right LED lighting strips, you can highlight, accentuate, and enhance your decorative crown molding for an eye-catching design element.