Cutting Grooves For LED Channels
What size groove do I need to cut for this profile?
The "cut-out" width is the most critical measurement. You typically need to route a channel that is slightly wider than the internal width of the aluminium extrusion (usually around 17mm-18mm wide and 7mm-8mm deep, but always measure your specific sample before routing). The "flange" or lip on the top then sits proud of the surface, covering any chipped edges from the router bit for a perfect finish.
Installing LED Channels Into Grooves
How do I fix the channel into the groove?
Once you have routed your slot, the channel is usually held in place with a few dabs of construction adhesive (like Sikaflex or Liquid Nails) or simply a tight friction fit if your routing is precise. You don't generally screw through the bottom of recessed profiles unless you have countersunk screws, as the screw heads can interfere with the LED tape adhesion.
Benefits Of Aluminium LED Channels
Why do I need an aluminium channel? Can't I just stick the lights to the wood?
You can, but you shouldn't. LED tape generates heat, and timber is a thermal insulator. If the heat cannot escape, the LED chips overheat and burn out prematurely. The aluminium acts as a heat sink, drawing heat away from the strip and dissipating it into the air, significantly extending the lifespan of your lights.
Light Output Impact Of Black LED Channels
Will the black channel make my lights dimmer?
Technically, yes, slightly. A silver or white channel reflects stray light back out, whereas black absorbs it. However, the difference is usually negligible for decorative lighting (like under-cabinet or kickboard lights). The trade-off is aesthetic: a black channel looks sleek and "invisible" when the lights are off, whereas a silver one can look industrial and obvious against dark cabinetry.
Preventing Visible LED Light Dots
Will I see individual dots of light?
The "dotting" effect depends on three things: the depth of the channel, the opacity of the diffuser, and the density of your LED strip (LEDs per metre). This recessed profile usually has enough depth to create a smooth "neon" bar of light if you use a high-density strip (120 LEDs/m or COB tape). If you use a cheap 60 LEDs/m strip, you will likely still see faint dots.
Replacing LED Strips In Aluminium Channels
Can I replace the LED strip later without ripping out the channel?
Yes. The beauty of this system is that the channel is permanent, but the lights are not. If the LED driver fails or the strip dims in 5 years, you can simply pop the plastic diffuser cover off, peel out the old tape, stick in a new one, and clip the cover back on. You don't need to damage your cabinetry to upgrade your lighting.
