Situations Where the Aluminum Channel Are Not Needed

We advise skipping the aluminum channels and diffusers entirely in situations where neither direct nor indirect glare is a concern, nor are any of the aesthetic or practical issues we covered above a problem. Especially with the ease of mounting via the 3M double-sided adhesive, installing LED strip lights directly can be perfectly fine.

Generally, circumstances most likely to not require aluminum channels are those in which the LED strip lights beam upwards toward the ceiling, rather than directly below. Cove lighting and LED strip lighting installed on crossbeams and trusses both use this reasonably typical lighting technology.

Direct glare is not an issue in these circumstances since the lights shine away from the persons using the space, ensuring that the emitters are never shining light directly in their direction. Because the light is typically directed at a wall surface that is typically covered in a matte paint finish, indirect glare is also not a problem. Finally, aesthetics are less of an issue, because the LED strips are hidden from direct view as they are often positioned behind architectural components and are effectively invisible.

What Are the Disadvantages of Aluminum Channels?

We’ve discussed the benefits of aluminum channels at length, but we certainly want to make sure that we cover some of the downsides as well.

The additional cost is the first clear drawback. Don’t forget that installation labor costs can affect costs in addition to material costs. Additionally, because the diffuser has a transmissivity value of approximately 90%, this means that you will see an approximately 10% decrease in brightness compared to installing the LED strip lights without a diffuser. To achieve the same level of brightness, this translates to a 10% higher LED strip light and accessories purchase cost (as a one-time expense), as well as a 10% increase in electricity costs over time (as an ongoing expense) (as an ongoing expense).

Another disadvantage is that the aluminum channels are rigid and cannot be curved or bent. This can be a significant drawback or even a dealbreaker if the flexibility of LED strip lights is an absolute essential. Although cutting the aluminum channels with a hacksaw is an option, it can be laborious and is a drawback, especially when compared to how simple it is to cut LED strip lights to the desired length.