LED strip lights make your room glow. But when it's time to take them down, things can get messy. Wondering how to remove LED strip lights from wall without hassle? This article gives you the ultimate guide, from preparing the tools to cleaning your wall. Let's read on to discover!
How To Remove LED Strip Lights From Wall?
Stripping off LED lights can be as simple as attaching them to the wall. Yet, if you are not careful enough, the surface may suffer. So, follow these steps to remove your LED strip lights safely:
Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools
Here are what you should prepare:
- Heat gun or hair dryer
- Putty knife
- Rubbing alcohol
- Towel
- Adhesive remover
Step 2: Apply Heat
The adhesive backing of the LED strip lights allows them to attach to the wall. Hence, to remove them, you have to deal with the adhesive first.
In this step, you have to pry one edge of the lights up with your fingers or a putty knife. When you notice the gap between the lights and the wall, heat the adhesive to loosen the grip. A heat gun or a hair dryer can offer the gentle source of heat you need. Do not press the tool against the adhesive, and maintain even heat.
Heat can soften the adhesive
Step 3: Peel the Light Strip
Once the adhesive turns soft, you can peel your strip lights. Remember to work evenly and slowly here. If you notice tough parts, apply more heat to soften the adhesive. This way, you can remove the lights without much stress on the paint.
Step 4: Remove Adhesive Residue
You've removed the strip lights, but you may see a little adhesive residue on the wall. In this instance, rubbing alcohol lifts it right out. Another method is to dampen a soft cloth towel with warm water and use that to wipe off the adhesive.
If the adhesive remains, you may need a specialized glue remover. However, this product can damage your wall. So, if you choose this approach, remember to test the remover on a tiny area first.
Step 5: Inspect the Wall
The final step is to check your wall. The removal process may result in discoloration or scuffs. You can paint your wall to hide the imperfections. A little paint is enough to recover your wall's look.
Check the wall
Mistakes to Avoid when Removing LED Strip Lights From Wall
To remove LED strip lights correctly, you need patience and the right techniques. Here are some common mistakes you may make and their consequences:
- Ripping the strips too quickly: If you rush the process, stubborn residue will still be on the wall. Worse, it may pull off the paint or even damage your wall.
- Overheating the adhesive: The idea of the removal process is to use heat to loosen the adhesive. However, if you apply too much heat, you will soften the wall paint, causing discoloration.
- Using harsh chemicals: You can use adhesive remover for the job. Yet, always use mild products like rubbing alcohol or warm water. Otherwise, harsh chemicals from specialized removers may harm the wall.
- Neglecting cleanup after removal: Adhesive residue can make your wall look dirty and make the decoration task much more challenging. Hence, always clean the wall with a towel and water after removal to ensure a smooth surface.
Additional tips to try
Tips to Remove LED Strip Lights in Different Spots
You may change the removal process above a little bit, depending on where you plan to execute the project. The following tips will help:
- Ceilings: You need a ladder to remove LED strip lights from the ceilings. So, be extra careful when trying to lift the adhesive. Using a hairdryer makes the task easier for you, but remember to avoid too much heat.
- Behind electronics: Heat doesn't work well with electricity. Hence, use your hairdryer in brief bursts and avoid heating electronics nearby. Also, move slowly during removal to prevent unnecessary strain on the wall.
- On wooden surfaces: This process can be tricky if sticky residue remains. You need a soft cloth with warm water to clean the surface without harming the wood grain. For tough spots, use duct tape or masking to lift.
- Under cabinets: If you installed your LED lights in tight spots, the removal would be more difficult. To deal with the adhesive, gradually apply heat and peel slowly to protect your cabinet's paint and wood finish. If needed, use small tools to loosen the stubborn adhesive.
Don't Just Remove – Replace!
The instructions on how to remove LED strip lights from wall are simple as long as you follow the steps above. You just need to apply some heat, peel the lights slowly, and clean any adhesive residue.
But why stop where? You can upgrade your lighting with high-quality accent light from WoodyWalls. We offer premium LED strip lights, wood products, and stylish accessories to upgrade your interior decor. Visit WoodyWalls now to explore!
FAQs
1. Are LED strip lights easy to take off?
No. The adhesive backing aims to attach to the wall firmly to keep the LED strip lights secure. If you don't peel them off the wall carefully, the adhesive may tear the paint.
2. Can I reuse LED strip lights after removal?
Yes. After removal, you just need to clean the old adhesive and attach new adhesive strips. Then, you can secure the lights at different spots.
3. Will LED strips ruin walls?
No. LED strip lights don't degrade your wall. However, since the adhesive is strong, it may damage the paint after removal.