Install Flexible LED Strip Lighting

What happens in this clip

Begin by planning the route for the flexible LED strip lights along the underside of each stair tread. The video demonstrates routing the warm white LED strip horizontally along the back edge of the tread, then curving it downwards around the side of the riser, and continuing under the subsequent tread. This creates a continuous flow of light. Secure the LED strips to the wooden substructure of the treads and risers. This can be done using the adhesive backing typically found on LED strips, or for a more robust attachment, use small mounting clips. Ensure that any connecting wires are discreetly managed and hidden within the staircase structure, possibly by drilling small, circular cutouts or channels in the risers to allow the strips or wires to pass through without being seen. The goal is to achieve a clean, uninterrupted light line along the underside of the treads. Finally, connect the LED strips to a suitable LED power supply/driver and an optional dimmer/controller, ensuring all electrical connections are safe and insulated.

Goal: Secure LED strips to staircase treads and risers

What's used

Tools

• Drill
• Chisel (for square channels)
• Flexible LED Strip Lights
• Hardwired individual LED puck lights
• LED rope lights
• Hole Saw / Spade Bit
• Dremel tool with cutting bit
• LED Dimmer/Controller
• Standard toggle switch (for on/off only)
• LED Mounting Clips
• Strong silicone adhesive
• especially on curves or if adhesive fails.
• LED Power Supply/Driver
• LED Strip Connectors (solderless)
• Measuring Tape
• Yardstick
• Pencil
• Marker
• Screwdriver
• Small Screws
• Wood glue (for clips
• with clamps during drying)
• Soldering Iron and Solder
• Wire Cutters

Materials

• Electrical Tape
• Heat shrink tubing
• Electrical Wire
• Liquid electrical tape

About the full video

This project involves installing flexible LED strip lights beneath the treads of a staircase to create a modern, ambient lighting effect. The lights are carefully routed to follow the contours of the treads and risers, providing indirect illumination for safety and aesthetic appeal.

Step 1 of 6: Plan LED Strip Placement

Determine the exact location for each LED strip on the front edge of the stair treads. Consider where the power cable will run from the first light to the last and where the motion sensor will be positioned to ensure it effectively detects movement on the stairs. Aim to place the strips just under the lip of each tread to create a floating light effect and hide the strip itself. Plan the route for the wires to run discreetly along the side of the stairs, perhaps behind a baseboard or railing, to the power source.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Install Motion-Sensor LED Strip Lights on Stair Treads

1. Step 1: Plan LED Strip Placement

   • 0:00–0:02 Plan and Gather Components
   • 0:00–0:19 Install Flexible LED Strip Lighting (this video)
   • 5:35–6:58 Plan Light Placement and Spacing

2. Step 2: Prepare Stair Treads

   • 0:00–0:01 Prepare Staircase for LED Installation
   • 0:10–0:12 Install LED Strips on Stair Treads
   • 0:02 Prepare Stair Surface

3. Step 3: Install LED Strips

   • 0:10–0:12 Install LED Strips on Stair Treads
   • 0:01–0:04 Apply LED Strip Lights to Treads
   • 0:00–0:19 Install Flexible LED Strip Lighting

4. Step 4: Connect LED Strips and Motion Sensor

   • 0:09–0:09 Connect Controller, Sensors, and Power Supply
   • 0:41–0:45 Connect LED Strips to Motion Detector
   • 1:22–1:36 Connect Interconnect Cable to LED Strip/Panel

5. Step 5: Mount Motion Sensor and Power Supply

   • 13:17–14:27 Mount Motion Sensors and Electronic Box
   • 3:50–4:30 Mount and Test the Motion Sensor
   • 3:25–4:32 Install and Wire Motion Sensors

6. Step 6: Test the System

   • 0:02–0:14 Test Motion Sensor Functionality
   • 0:10–0:11 Test Functionality and Observe Results
   • 0:07–0:10 Test Electrical Components