Blog

LED strip lights are known for their versatility and ease of installation. Often, you can simply stick the strips to any surface using the adhesive backing. However, while practical, this method doesn’t always give a polished or professional finish, especially if the strips are visible. That’s where LED profiles come into play.

What Are LED Profiles?

LED profiles, also referred to as extrusions, are solid aluminium channels designed specifically for use with LED strip lights. Aluminium is chosen for its durability and excellent heat dissipation properties, making it ideal for this purpose.

While aluminium profiles are used in various industries, such as aerospace and appliances, the profiles sold on our website are purpose-built for LED strips, ensuring both practicality and aesthetic appeal.

Why Use LED Profiles?

Here are five key reasons why profiles are an excellent addition to your LED strip lights:

Heat Dissipation - LED strips are sensitive to heat, and prolonged exposure to high temperatures can reduce their lifespan. Profiles act as a heat sink, drawing heat away from the LED chips. This is especially important when installing strips on heat-retentive surfaces like wood. Using profiles can extend the lifespan of your LED strips by up to 50%.

Extra Stability - While LED strips use strong 3M adhesive, even this can weaken over time. Profiles provide an extra layer of security, holding the strips in place for long-lasting performance without stress.

Easy Maintenance - Profiles make it easier to clean your LED strips by shielding the chips. With profiles, there’s no risk of damaging the strips while dusting or wiping down surfaces.

Smoother Lighting - Many LED strips produce a dotted lighting effect due to the placement of the LED chips. Profiles come with diffusers that soften this effect, creating a more uniform, seamless glow.

Directional Lighting - If you need more than ambient lighting, profiles can help focus the illumination. By choosing the right profile design, you can direct the light exactly where it’s needed.

Choosing the Right LED Profile

LED profiles come in various designs to suit different applications. Here are the most common types:

• Surface-Mounted Profiles - These are the simplest and most versatile profiles. They’re mounted directly onto surfaces like walls using brackets, making them ideal for general-purpose lighting.
• Recessed Profiles - Recessed profiles are designed to sit flush with the surface, creating a sleek and minimalist appearance. Perfect for integrated lighting in walls, ceilings, or furniture.
• Corner Profiles - Designed for 90-degree angles, corner profiles emit light at a 45° angle, making them ideal for ceiling edges, under cabinets, or along floor corners.

Compatibility Matters

Not all profiles are compatible with every type of LED strip. For example, higher-rated waterproof strips (IP65 and above) are often thicker, so always double-check compatibility before ordering. If in doubt, get in touch with our team for advice.

Get in Touch

Need help choosing the right profile or checking compatibility? Call us on 0116 321 4120 or email cs@ledstriplights.co.uk

For more inspiration and updates on our latest products, follow us on Facebook, Instagram or subscribe to our YouTube channel.

With LED profiles, you can take your lighting setup to the next level—achieving a polished look that complements any décor.